One of a Kind-ness is a documentary that is perfect for a series, which reveals the transformative power of hands-on philanthropy. By telling intimate stories of people who invest their time, talent, and resources directly into underserved communities, the film shows how meaningful change happens through relationships—not just transactions. From education and the arts to innovative programs in unexpected places, the project highlights models of generosity that are working, growing, and enriching lives on every side. Support for this film helps bring these stories to a wider audience, inspiring a new understanding of what effective, human-centered philanthropy can look like.
Episode 1: Ken Kaplan
Kibera Knights Chess Club in Kenya
“Through chess, Kenneth Kaplan shows that one thoughtful move can start a chain of kindness that reaches far beyond the board.”
Kenneth Kaplan has spent his life helping young people discover their potential. A recently semi-retired special education teacher, Ken taught for many years in New York City public schools and later at Byram Hills High School in Armonk, New York. Throughout his career, he focused not only on academic learning, but on giving students tools to think critically, build confidence, and see new possibilities for themselves.
Ken’s dedication to education extends beyond the classroom through his chess mentorship. As a member of New York City’s historic Marshall Chess Club, he champions chess as a vehicle for developing strategic thinking, self- discipline, and emotional fortitude. His collaboration with the non-profit Crossing Thresholds and The Gift of Chess organization has enabled him to introduce chess—complete with equipment— to students in disadvantaged areas, culminating in the establishment of Kenya’s Kibera Knights Chess Club.
Episode 2: Carter Via
Crossing Thresholds/Bridges to Community
Isabel Omondi
“One person’s commitment can inspire another, and how relationships ripple outward across continents.”
Carter Via is an ordained minister whose life has been defined by turning faith into action. After leading congregations in New York and Connecticut, he founded Bridges to Community, connecting Americans with rural communities in Nicaragua through immersive service that transformed both those who gave and those who received. His work later expanded globally through Crossing Thresholds, inspired in part by his friendship with Wangari Maathai, where he helped bring education and opportunity to children in Nairobi’s Kibera slum.
At the heart of his story—and this film—is the idea that philanthropy is not a one-way act, but a ripple effect. Carter’s journey shows how relationships, trust, and shared humanity create a cycle of impact that continues to grow, inspiring others to recognize that we are all, at our core, philanthropists.
Isabel Sadya Omondi founded and directs the Center of Hope School in Kibera Slum. A mother with degrees in Education and Counseling Psychology, she participated in the International Visitors Leadership Program in 2015, gaining valuable NGO management experience.
Established in 2014, Center of Hope provides education from playgroup to grade 8 in a faith-driven environment. The school emphasizes academics, character development, and extracurricular activities while working with the community to break poverty cycles through education. Through partnership with Crossing Thresholds, approximately 200 pupils receive quality education focused on mindset transformation and interactive learning, giving them genuine opportunities to realize their potential.
Center of Hope School
Episode 3: Franco Odhiambo
Cheza Cheza
“Through chess, Kenneth Kaplan shows that one thoughtful move can start a chain of kindness that reaches far beyond the board.”
Franco Odhiambo…has spent his life helping young people discover their potential. A recently semi-retired special education teacher, Ken taught for many years in New York City public schools and later at Byram Hills High School in Armonk, New York. Throughout his career, he focused not only on academic learning, but on giving students tools to think critically, build confidence, and see new possibilities for themselves.
Ken’s dedication to education extends beyond the classroom through his chess mentorship. As a member of New York City’s historic Marshall Chess Club, he champions chess as a vehicle for developing strategic thinking, self- discipline, and emotional fortitude. His collaboration with the non-profit Crossing Thresholds and The Gift of Chess organization has enabled him to introduce chess—complete with equipment— to students in disadvantaged areas, culminating in the establishment of Kenya’s Kibera Knights Chess Club.
Episode 4: Nina Stern
“Through chess, Kenneth Kaplan shows that one thoughtful move can start a chain of kindness that reaches far beyond the board.”
Nina Stern…has spent his life helping young people discover their potential. A recently semi-retired special education teacher, Ken taught for many years in New York City public schools and later at Byram Hills High School in Armonk, New York. Throughout his career, he focused not only on academic learning, but on giving students tools to think critically, build confidence, and see new possibilities for themselves.
Ken’s dedication to education extends beyond the classroom through his chess mentorship. As a member of New York City’s historic Marshall Chess Club, he champions chess as a vehicle for developing strategic thinking, self- discipline, and emotional fortitude. His collaboration with the non-profit Crossing Thresholds and The Gift of Chess organization has enabled him to introduce chess—complete with equipment— to students in disadvantaged areas, culminating in the establishment of Kenya’s Kibera Knights Chess Club.
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