“Every kid is one caring adult away from being a success story.” —Josh Shipp
Family, friends and community members gathered to commemorate the founding of the Mark and Jacob Foster Care Ministry at the Westlake Yacht Club on October 20.
Established to honor Mark Iskander, 11, and Jacob Iskander, 8, who were struck and killed by a vehicle while they crossed the street with their parents and siblings in Westlake Village on September 29, 2020, the foundation will provide support to underserved children.
The Iskander family aims to honor the boys’ lives through the foundation, turning unspeakable grief into hope by supporting foster youth and their families. With the help of the community, the nonprofit exists to build a brighter future for children in need and to provide vital resources to help foster parents continue their important work. The vision of the organization includes establishing a foster care wellness center in Oxnard that will include a bio-parent meeting room, a therapy room and emotional counseling support services. Funds raised will also support transportation services for youth appointments and support services for foster youth with special needs.
“We are gathered here for a joyous occasion to remember Mark and Jacob and to celebrate the kindness and generosity of the community which has provided the Iskander family with hope and courage during their darkest days,” shared event organizer Julie Cohen. “The boys’ presence is felt in every smile and hug here and 2025 will be the year we honor them in a way that shares their love.”
The statistics regarding the urgent need for foster families are astounding, Cohen shared, noting that in Ventura County, there are more than 700 children in need of a loving home every day.
“Foster parents sometimes quit serving—they need a lot of support,” Cohen noted. “Donations to our organization will enable foster families to continue serving needy children and will allow them to offer the foster children the same opportunities that Mark and Jacob had. Together, we can all save and improve foster children’s lives.”
The event included an expression of gratitude for prosecutors Ryan Gould and Jamie Castro, who persevered in the years-long criminal case charging Rebecca Grossman for striking the boys in the crosswalk while speeding through the crosswalk. The occasion also honored Captain Jennifer Seeto of the Lost Hills Sheriff's Station and Chief Drew Smith of the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The officials participated in a dunking contest at the event to contribute to fundraising efforts.
Unparalleled Support
“Our agency is fully inclusive: we provide training, assist with certifications, conduct home inspections with a dedicated social worker and stay by their side every step of the way,” Cohen explained. “Nancy Iskander, the victims’ mother, personally supports foster families throughout the entire process.”
Elaborating, Cohen added, “Families can’t foster through Ventura or LA counties directly if they work with us. Dealing with county workers is challenging to say the least. Having someone as compassionate and dedicated as Nancy guiding foster parents may inspire more people to consider fostering—something we urgently need.”
Cohen expressed her appreciation for the event.
“The comments I’ve received from guests and neighbors about seeing the family genuinely smile and experience real joy, especially from the photos and videos shared in our community, have been incredibly moving!” she said, adding, “Hearing them laugh was amazing. For those of us who have been by their side over the past few years, witnessing pure happiness on their faces, especially in the photo that captured Nancy’s smile, was truly special. Personally, it was a blessing to be able to give them a day of relief and joy.”
Community Pledge
“Together, we are transforming the tragedy into a force for good!” Cohen said, inviting readers to take a pledge to honor the boys by promising not to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, refrain from racing vehicles on the roads and to be kind and volunteer.
For more information, visit MarkandJacobFoundation.org or call 805.374.1110.
“Donations to our organization will enable foster families to continue serving needy children and will allow them to offer the foster children the same opportunities that Mark and Jacob had."
“We are gathered here for a joyous occasion to remember Mark and Jacob and to celebrate the kindness and generosity of the community which has provided the Iskander family with hope and courage during their darkest days.”