It pains me to share that our beloved brother, mentor and dear friend, Ernesto Yanes-Arnold, is in the ICU due to a spinal injury that he sustained from a gunshot wound a little over a week ago. Ernesto is staying strong and praying for a full recovery, but expects to be in the hospital for possibly another month and could use all of our prayers and support. Every donation made here goes directly to Ernesto.

Everyone who meets Ernesto is immediately drawn to him. His wit, humor, positivity, light, and ability to connect so naturally with others make him the magnetic young man that so many of us know and love. He is the living embodiment of the lyric "I'm the opposite of moderate, immaculately polished with the spirit of a hustler and the swagger of a college kid," and he uses his spirit and swagger to bless others - another one of the countless reasons he is beloved by so many.

For most of his life, Ernesto has dedicated his time and efforts toward advocating for, guiding and mentoring systems impacted youth, especially those who have endured family separation through the foster care system. He has leveraged his own experiences with foster care, probation and homelessness to shed light on the inequities impacting our most vulnerable youth and young adults; advocate for policy changes at the local, state and federal levels; and serve as a mentor and leader among his peers and to youth who are currently living through hardships that he knows and has lived through personally.

From LA and Sacramento, to DC and many places in between, Ernesto has raised his voice to advocate for more resources and support for foster youth. In addition to his advocacy, Ernesto pursued higher education and received a bachelor's degree, all while experiencing homelessness. Less than one week before the tragic incident that landed him in the hospital's trauma unit, Ernesto successfully completed the first year of his Master of Social Work degree at Cal State Dominguez Hills while working full time as a near-peer mentor to current youth in foster care and caring for his newborn baby.

This unexpected tragedy comes as a shock to us all, and is beyond heartbreaking for Ernesto, his family and loved ones. Ernesto has undergone two surgeries since being hospitalized, and has a long road to recovery that will include ongoing therapy and rehabilitation services.

Ernesto and his family need our support. Let's show up for him the way he has and continues to show up for so many. Please keep Ernesto in your prayers, send positive thoughts/energy his way, and give what you can to support him and his family in the following ways:
- Donate to this GoFundMe. All proceeds will go directly to Ernesto and will assist with the medical expenses related to his rehabilitation.
- Send his family a meal or gas card. His mom, brother and fiancé are taking turns staying with him in the hospital and could use gift cards to buy food, as well as funds for gas. You can purchase gift cards that will go directly to them at this Give In Kind donation site.
- Send items for the baby. Ernesto and Kenya welcomed their beautiful baby boy into the world on January 1, 2025. As Kenya is 4 months postpartum, taking care of the baby and also being present to support Ernesto, she can use some help with diapers, other baby items and gifts for self care. If you have anything to give, please send them her way.
- Share words of encouragement. Given the sensitive nature of his recovery, Ernesto is not able to have visitors at this time. If you would like to send words of encouragement, please comment on this GoFundMe page, or send a private message so we can share your words with him. Even though he cannot see you right now, your words mean so much and are the encouragement he needs to continue pressing forward.

​All of us who know and love Ernesto know that he has overcome many obstacles in life and has risen above each challenge, coming forth stronger and a more refined leader like the phoenix that he is. We remain hopeful and prayerful that Ernesto will rise above this obstacle, too. Thank you for contributing what you can to make his recovery as smooth as possible.

Loss of a Parent

Grief/Loss

Kenya Hennington

Taking Care of Ernesto's Family

The digital Visa gift card is another convenient option for supporting someone when they need it most. It allows the recipient to select their own essentials or gifts from a wide range of merchants. The card will be emailed to your recipient’s inbox and is for online or by phone use only. It’s a thoughtful way to show your support and let them know you’re there for them.
Why we love this gift: 
With ever-changing needs, this gift allows your loved one to purchase whatever they need, whenever they need it. The digital Visa gift card is a fast, easy way to put funds in your recipient’s hands. This gift card is all about giving them that flexibility and peace of mind.

Looking for a memorable gift that adapts to any situation?
The physical Visa gift card combines the practicality of a Visa credit card—usable both in-store and online—and the thoughtfulness of a greeting card. For just $5.95 and the cost of your chosen shipping method, we will print your custom Give InKind Visa gift card and personalized greeting card, and send directly to your loved one. The versatility and personal touch of this gift makes it no surprise this is our most gifted card.
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Why we love this gift:
<ul>
<li>Versatility: Needs can change quickly in challenging times. This all-purpose gift card allows your loved one to purchase precisely what they need, when they need it. Be it a comforting meal, a therapy session, spa treatment, fuel, diapers, or countless other possibilities. No questions asked.</li>
<li>Personalization: Add a heartfelt message to both the gift card itself and the greeting card. Pick your favorite among the many available greeting card designs to give your gift a personal touch. And for those urgent moments, you can always choose to have your gift shipped overnight.</li>
<li>Show you care: It’s the perfect way of letting a recipient know you are thinking of them, no matter how far away they may be. Whether it’s sending love after the birth of a new baby, some healthy vibes with a Get Well card, or even a simple ‘Thinking of You’ your gift can truly make a difference for a friend going through some intense times.</li>
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The Give InKind Custom Visa card is the perfect way to show your support during challenging times, or anytime you want to show you care. Whether you're sending love after the birth of a new baby, or sending good vibes during a difficult period, the Give InKind Custom Visa card is the perfect way to show your support.
This card is available with an optional greeting card, so you can add a personal touch to your gesture. And for those urgent moments, you can always choose to have your card shipped overnight.
The Give InKind Custom Visa card is more than just a card. It's a way to make a difference in the lives of those you love, and give them the support they need. Show your support today with the Give InKind Custom Visa card.
Additional charges will apply at checkout depending on delivery preferences. There are no additional charges for any digital cards sent via email.

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Visa Gift Card - Visa Digital Gift Card

Jamba Juice serves up wholesome nutrition and inspires healthy living. Jamba Juice gift cards are the ideal way to share and enjoy a wide variety of master blended juices, smoothies, bowls, and shots.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because everyone loves smoothies - and they're delicious and nutritious, too!
What To Express In Your Card: I know how busy you have been lately. Please, take a moment to feed yourself something nutritious. I love you!

Jamba Juice

Jamba Juice serves up wholesome nutrition and inspires healthy living. Jamba Juice gift cards are the ideal way to share and enjoy a wide variety of master blended juices, smoothies, bowls, and shots.

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Jamba Juice - Jamba Juice Gift Card

Buffalo Wild Wings&reg; is a sports bar with beer and wings and a crazy amount of TVs showing all the games - along with rowdy fans and all the sauces for all the wings!
So bring your friends, your outside voice, and cheer on your favorite team to victory at any of their 1,200+ locations nationwide.
Why We Love This Gift: Buffalo Wild Wings is an excellent gift for any recipient in desperate need of a break - to take their mind off of things, enjoy some delicious wings, and share a meal with friends and family.
What To Express In Your Card: I know how stressful things have been lately. You deserve to have a fun night out. I love you!

Buffalo Wild Wings&reg;

Buffalo Wild Wings® is a sports bar with beer and wings and a crazy amount of TVs showing all the games &#8211; and rowdy fans and all the sauces for all the wings!

Buffalo Wild Wings

Buffalo Wild Wings&reg; - Buffalo Wild Wings Gift Card

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With your favorite restaurants at your fingertips, DoorDash satisfies your cravings and connects you with possibilities -- more time and energy for yourself and those you love.
Why We Love This Gift: In every situation, food is necessary. Let your recipient select exactly what they want to eat - and have it delivered. Win and Win.
What To Express in Your Card: I am thinking of you and I want you to eat something that appeals to you. You choose. xo

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DoorDash - DoorDash Gift Card

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Email

This is the perfect gift for any family or any loved one with medical needs. Send help to those you love to provide care in the form of a CVS e-gift card.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because everyone has medical needs from time to time. Often, medical insurance with high deductibles eats into the ability of a family to cover unanticipated medical expenses. An e-gift card ensures that those you love get that which they need to heal - with adequate respect for their privacy. Perfect. This is very useful in any medical crisis in very specific ways. Supplements useful in various treatments are expensive and not covered. This is applicable to surgical patients, cancer patients, pediatric patients, and more. Medical equipment can be ordered - such as canes or walkers and your recipient can pay using their gift card.
What To Express in Your Card: What else do you need me to do? At the ready. xo

CVS Pharmacy&reg;

CVS Pharmacy

CVS Pharmacy&reg; - CVS Pharmacy Gift Card

Chipotle offers a focused menu of burritos, tacos, burrito bowls, and salads made from fresh, high-quality raw ingredients, prepared using classic cooking methods and served in a distinctive atmosphere.
Through their vision of Food With Integrity, Chipotle is seeking better food from using ingredients that are not only fresh, but that - where possible - are sustainably grown and raised responsibly with respect for the animals, the land, and the farmers who produce the food. And...delicious too!
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because Chipotle offers a clean and affordable fast food alternative. This is a great gift for anyone - who doesn't love Chipotle?
What To Express In Your Card: I miss you! Grab a meal. Sending you love.

Chipotle

Chipotle offers a focused menu of burritos, tacos, burrito bowls, and salads made from fresh, high-quality raw ingredients, prepared using classic cooking methods and served in a distinctive atmosphere.

Chipotle - Chipotle Gift Card

<a href="https://instacart.oloiyb.net/c/1246143/413183/7412" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Instacart</a> is a grocery delivery service that delivers in as little as an hour. They connect you with Personal Shoppers in your area who pick up and deliver your groceries from your favorite local stores.
Why We Love This Gift: Shopping for groceries is a chore under the best of circumstances. For families facing a new lift event or crisis, it is very often incredibly stressful. The gift of a cupboard full of basic necessities is tremendous. It is a wonderful way to remind those you love that you have not forgotten the day-to-day challenges they face. You are telling them in no uncertain terms that they are not alone.
What to Express in Your Card: I was thinking about the things you have to get done every day. I hope you'll let me help a little by giving me a chance to buy you some groceries - and have them delivered to you. Just one lest task for you to worry about. I send you my love.

Instacart

Instacart - Instacart Gift Card

Domino's gift cards can be redeemed for pizza, sandwiches, desserts, and much more. Try their Artisan Pizza, Stuffed Cheesy Bread, Oven Baked Sandwiches, Parmesan Bread Bites, or Chocolate Lava Crunch Cakes. With the Domino's Pizza gift card, you can dine in the restaurant or order home-delivered pizza online. Treat someone to a Domino's gift card today.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because everyone loves sharing their favorite slice of pizza with someone they love. For example, those who have lost a loved one may sometimes permit themselves a little comfort and companionship. In such a circumstance, a meal shared is a true and lasting kindness. If the deceased was a breadwinner, the bereaved may be watching the wallet. Enable this person you love to grab a meal - wherever s/he is.
What To Express in Your Card: Please have something to eat.

Domino's

Amazon

Domino's - Dominos Gift Card

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Give InKind

General Support

Setting up a food train is one of the best ways to help support someone you love. Here are some tips on how to give groceries as a gift.

How to Give Groceries as a Gift for a Meal Train

How to Give Groceries as a Gift for a Meal Train - Give InKind

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Modern Couple At Coffee Shop

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David Shafer

Best-selling author David Shafer on why it is better to acknowledge grief - even if we say the wrong thing. Visit Give InKind for articles, information, and a new way to schedule meals and offer concrete assistance to the bereaved.

Grief: Better To Say The Wrong Thing Than Nothing At All

New York Times Best-selling author David Shafer on acknowledging grief. Visit Give InKind for information and concrete ways to help the bereaved.

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Tara Shafer

Consider what you want to convey in your gift of flowers. Here are some considerations in making a selection. Visit Give InKind for information, articles, and a new way to schedule food and support to those in times of need.

What Flowers Express: In Illness & In Grief

Consider what you wish to express in your selection. Visit Give InKind for ideas, information, and a new way to schedule meals in times of need.

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