About Us

Hi, I'm Kari, and I'm the driving force behind Killian And Ko. Four years ago, my world changed when my incredible son, Killian, was diagnosed as autistic and found himself without a voice. Thanks to the unwavering support of his school's speech-language pathologist, he was introduced to an AAC (Augmentative Alternative Communication) device. Witnessing the transformation has been nothing short of extraordinary. Killian's speech began to emerge, he started expressing his choices, building friendships, and achieving milestones beyond our wildest dreams. It's all thanks to his newfound ability to connect with the world around him.

However, here's where the narrative takes an unexpected twist. The staggering costs and limited accessibility of these communication devices came to light. We dug deep and paid $749 out of our own pockets (after insurance reluctantly covered a mere $7k!) for his essential iPad mini and AAC software. This experience ignited the spark for Killian And Ko, a passion project with a profound mission.

Our purpose is crystal clear: To make these life-changing devices accessible to children diagnosed with autism, apraxia, and other speech disorders. We're here for those times when insurance and other avenues fall short.

The Spring of 2023 marked the beginning of a new chapter for Killian And Ko, as we opened applications to bring this empowerment to more children. With your support, we're aiming high. Our goal is to place these communication lifelines into the hands of as many deserving kids as possible.

Now, let's talk numbers. We've fine-tuned our approach, and we're excited to share that each device can be made available for around $500. Yes, that's right – a mere fraction of what some have to pay out of pocket. As of 2025 Killian And Ko has saved families over $105,000 by providing their child a device of their own. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make an impact that resonates far beyond dollars and cents.

Join us in rewriting the stories of these incredible young lives. Your support is more than a donation; it's an investment in a future where every child's voice is heard, every choice is made, and every dream is within reach.

Meet Killian, the inspiration behind Killian And Ko.

Meet the Board

  • Kari Broer

    President and Founder

    I'm a proud veteran, mom of two, and passionate advocate for children with complex communication needs. I hold a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and currently serve on the Family Advisory Council for the University of Iowa's Child Health Specialty Clinics. Through my journey with AAC, I’ve become deeply committed to empowering families and supporting non-speaking children. When I’m not working with Killian and Ko, you’ll find me sewing, camping with my family, or enjoying a good board game.

  • Brittany Zimpfer

    Vice President

    Brittany Zimpfer is a passionate educator and advocate for inclusive communication. As Vice President of Killian and Ko, she helps lead initiatives that provide AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices to children in need. With over seven years of experience in elementary education—including her current role as a K–5 STEAM teacher—Brittany brings a unique blend of creativity, compassion, and innovation to the nonprofit's mission. She is dedicated to ensuring that every child has a voice and the tools to express it.

  • Christa Henry

    Secretary

    Christa is a Special Education Teacher who is passionate about supporting diverse learners and helping every child reach their potential. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, especially while camping and exploring the outdoors together.

  • Kyle Broer

    Treasurer

    I currently work as an Instrument and Electrical Technician who also lends a hand on the family farm. A passionate advocate for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), Kyle is dedicated to supporting non-speaking individuals and their families. In his free time, he enjoys fishing, camping, and woodworking.

Our mission is to provide children with Augmentative Alternative Communication.

“For people without disabilities, technology makes things easier. For people with disabilities, technology makes things possible.”

— IBM Training Manual 1991

Your support is more than a donation; it's an investment in a future where every child's voice is heard, every choice is made, and every dream is within reach.