Every day in the United States, 32 people lose their lives in drunk-driving accidents. Behind each of those numbers is a family shattered, a seat left empty at the dinner table, and a community changed forever. For Todd Lingel, the founder of the Kares Foundation, these aren’t just statistics—they are his story.

A Mission Rooted in Heart

The Kares Foundation was born out of a profound personal tragedy. When Todd was only three years old, a drunk driver took the lives of his mother and sister. Decades later, Todd has turned that “unseen scar” into a mission to ensure no other family has to endure that same lifetime of anguish.

The mission of Kares Today is simple but powerful: Saving Lives One Community at a Time.

Empowering the Next Generation

Kares Today focuses on youth-centered awareness. By reaching teens and young adults before they make life-altering decisions, the foundation provides the education and support needed to navigate the pressures of the modern world. Their work covers several critical pillars:

• DUI Prevention: Educating youth on the devastating, real-world effects of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

• Distracted Driving: Raising awareness about the dangers of phone use and other distractions behind the wheel.

• Social Media & Peer Pressure: Helping kids navigate social media grooming and the intense pressure to “fit in” that often leads to risky behavior.

• Kamp Kares: A specialized camp designed for kids affected by drugs or alcohol, teaching them outdoor skills, providing counseling, and offering a safe space to heal.

Real Stories, Real Impact

Todd travels across the country, speaking at schools, churches, and victim impact panels. He doesn’t just give a lecture; he shares his heart. As testimonials from educators and parents attest, his ability to connect with youth is “uncanny,” helping them understand that the choices they make today affect everyone they love tomorrow.

The foundation’s long-term vision is even more ambitious: to establish a Kamp Kares in all 50 states and provide scholarships to deserving students entering college or trade schools.

How You Can Help

Transformation doesn’t happen in a vacuum—it requires a community that “Kares.” Whether it’s through volunteering, inviting Todd to speak at your local organization, or contributing financially, every bit of support helps keep these vital programs running.

If you feel moved to support this mission of education, prevention, and healing, please consider making a contribution. Your generosity directly funds the resources and camps that empower at-risk youth to make smarter, safer choices for their future.

Support the Mission: Donate to Saving Lives Here

Together, we can turn awareness into action and tragedy into a legacy of hope.

Kares Foundation: Who Kares? We Kare!!

This video features the founder of the Kares Foundation sharing the personal story and mission that drives the organization’s work in saving lives.