Bridge to Valor- The Klos Foundation
The Story of Klos
Klos was light.
He was hilarious and artistic, with a belly laugh that filled a room and ocean blue-green eyes that sparkled when he smiled. He loved all kinds of people. He didn’t look for differences — he looked for connection. If someone felt left out, Klos noticed. If someone was hurting, he felt it.
He was deeply compassionate and fiercely loyal.
When Klos was just two years old, he lost his father to suicide. From that point on, he and his mom faced the world hand in hand. He became her sidekick — protective, wise beyond his years, and full of heart. They grew together through grief, resilience, and love.
When Marc entered their lives, Klos formed the first deep father-son connection he had ever known. Their bond was immediate and real. Klos once told Marc, “I will be so mad if you don’t marry my mom.” That was Klos — bold, loving, and all in. After Klos became an angel, we chose to marry on his birthday because we knew he would be there with us.
Klos’ life was vibrant. He was creative. He was funny. He was sensitive in a way that made him strong.
But even the brightest lights can struggle in silence.
Bullying is often dismissed as “kids being kids.” But for the child experiencing it, it can feel relentless. Isolating. Humiliating. Heavy. What happened to Klos exposed a painful truth — words, exclusion, and cruelty can have lasting consequences.
His death changed everything.
It shattered our world — but it also ignited a mission.
The Klos Foundation was born from both unbearable grief and unstoppable love. We refuse to let his story end in silence. We are committed to creating schools and communities where children feel seen, safe, and valued. Where kindness is taught. Where warning signs are recognized early. Where connection replaces isolation.
Klos’ life mattered.
He was not defined by how he died. He is defined by how he lived — loving deeply, laughing loudly, and protecting the people he cared about.
Through this foundation, his light continues.
And every child we reach is part of his legacy.
Bridge to Valor- The Klos Foundation Core Values
Compassion
To lead with empathy, ensuring that every adolescent who has experienced bullying feels seen, heard, and valued.
Courage
Empowering young people to find their inner strength, reminding them that bravery can take many forms- whether speaking up, reaching out, or simply holding on.
Belonging
Creating safe, inclusive spaces where every child feels accepted and supported, building communities that celebrate differences instead of punishing them.
Resilience
We believe in the power of healing and growth. Our programs focus on restoring hope, helping young people rebuild confidence and self-worth.
Empowerment
To equip adolescents with tools, mentors, and opportunities to thrive, transforming moments of pain into pathways for leadership and strength.
Legacy of Love
At the heart of our work is Klos' story- a reminder that out of tragedy can come compassion, action, and a commitment to protect others from suffering in silence.
Join Bridge to Valor- The Klos Foundation 's Mission!
Together, we can make a lasting impact. Help us create a better future for those in need by making a donation to Bridge to Valor- The Klos Foundation today.
Contact Us
Bridge to Valor- The Klos Foundation
Marc and Sheila Struckmeyer theklosfoundation@gmail.com
Hours
Open today | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm |
