Who We Are
Our Founder
Jay Toputapu
Jay Toputapu is a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He is from the town of Lahaina on the island of Maui. His father is from the village of Navutoka, Tonga, and his mother is from Santa Monica, California.
As an at-risk youth himself, Jay received mentorship that realigned his life and eternal trajectory. After serving an ecclesiastical mission in Nicaragua, Jay received a full-ride scholarship to Brigham Young University. Motivated by his own journey and a passion to inspire underprivileged youth, he strives to assist others as they discover their potential. Jay graduated in Secondary Education and Coaching, obtained a Master's Degree in Academic Advising, and is now a Doctoral Candidate for Educational Leadership and Administrative Licensure. In his free time, he loves to travel, assist refugees, serve in the temple, and spend time with family.
“I created Zion to provide youth with collegiate exposure, missionary preparation, and talent development. Although Zion quickly became a national powerhouse in youth football, my passion is helping youth realize their divine potential. I find joy in seeing Zion participants pursue collegiate ambitions and a stable career, serve ecclesiastical missions, start their own families, and serve in their communities. I envision Zion developing underrepresented youth into leaders who will pay it forward.”
“The contributions of Donors and Mentors will enable the growth of youth that come from underprivileged and underrepresented backgrounds. With various ways you can help, it is my hope to see entire communities and future generations benefit from the youth development provided by Zion and its lifelong lessons.”
Advisory Board
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Francesca Paul
PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT & EVENT PLANNER
“Working alongside the Zion Foundation, I've witnessed the contagious sense of excitement and passion ignited within individuals as they understand our mission and aspirations. This enthusiasm has resonated within me, amplifying my own commitment to serve underrepresented youth within our communities. It's inspiring to see how the organization nurtures and molds young youth into empowered men.”
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Eduardo Lopez Trejos
MARKETING & FINANCIAL ADVISOR
“Being a part of this organization helps not just the boys, but helps me become a better person everyday. Zion has helped me to believe in myself more by being a part of this great family, and has allowed me to contribute my knowledge and experiences in the service of everyone else. Zion today is a light and hope for youth in this day and age.”
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Sophie Paxton
MARKETING & EVENT PLANNER
“I have had the chance to interact with various Zion Foundation Alumni and I have seen the impact it has had on them. I am passionate about this organization and want to do all I can to make a difference in the youths’ lives. There is a tangible difference that comes from Zion Foundations’ efforts, and that makes me really excited for its future.”
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Mary Kennedy
CONTENT CREATOR & EVENT PLANNER
“Working at the Zion Foundation has transformed me. Hearing the stories and experiences of those who have benefited from the foundation's support has deeply impacted my perspective. Through these interactions, I've gained a profound understanding of the challenges these youth face and the importance of empathy in supporting them.”
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Claire Brimhall
WEBSITE CREATOR & EVENT PLANNER
“As I have gotten to know some of Zion’s alumni, I have seen and felt the difference Jay and Zion have made in these youths’ lives. It is a source of hope, community and friendship for youth who otherwise could be overlooked. I am so excited to be a part of Zion’s goal to help these youth grow in every aspect of their lives.”
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Levi Ward
WEBSITE CREATOR & EVENT PLANNER
“I have noticed the impact that both the program and its director, Jay, have had on these youth. The alumni have had amazing experiences and look at this foundation as one of their most transforming experiences. On top of that, they look towards Jay as one of their best mentors. The program provides growth, experience, and a new family for those who participate.”