Social Responsibility Spotlight: Breakthrough Kent Denver

Kent Denver students make a meaningful impact in their communities each year through service and volunteer work. This month, we recognize Peter D. ‘27 and Charlotte Holtze ‘27 for their dedication to Breakthrough Kent Denver, which will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year with a gala on April 5. Charlotte and Peter share their thoughts on their work with Breakthrough and the impact it has had on both the kids in the program and on themselves.

A Mission That’s Personal

Peter started volunteering with Breakthrough during his freshman year and has already dedicated over 96 hours—far surpassing Kent Denver’s 80-hour graduation requirement. But for him, it’s not about the hours—it’s about making a difference.

“Why live if you don't give?” he said. “There are so many people that you can help and so many things that you can do, big or small. It really makes me happy.”

Peter spent six weeks volunteering with Breakthrough over the summer and now helps three afternoons a week during the school year. The organization’s mission resonates deeply with him.

“I was in [the students’] same exact shoes. I know what they go through and how it feels. I like the mission of ‘no child left behind.’ Everyone can thrive,” he shared. “I really appreciate what [Breakthrough] does. There's a gap there for kids who aren't as fortunate to come to Kent Denver and I like how they're filling that gap.”

For Peter, the experience has been life-changing.

“It gives me a little bit of a purpose. It gives me a little bit of hope. Those kids are so bright and they're gonna do a lot with their future. I can do a lot with my future, too,” he said.

Finding Joy in Service

Charlotte began volunteering with Breakthrough last fall and participates as often as possible. 

“It's a really cool opportunity to be able to spread Kent’s joy to everyone. I really enjoy working with the kids. It's fun to see how we can make an impact in their lives,” she said. Some of her favorite experiences include helping to run interactive programs, like an imaginary market for financial literacy, and field trips to the Denver Art Museum. But for Charlotte, the most meaningful part of Breakthrough is the relationships she’s formed.

“Being able to interact with people I wouldn't have met otherwise,” she said. “That's been the most meaningful for me.”

Get Involved

Both Charlotte and Peter encourage their classmates to volunteer, calling it fun, rewarding, and truly impactful.

Breakthrough’s 30th Anniversary Gala is April 5 from 6–10 p.m. in Schaden Dining Hall. More details and tickets can be found here.