From Loss to Legacy: The Story Behind The Chunko Foundation
The Chunko Foundation was born from tragedy, but it’s driven by an unwavering spirit of love, resilience, and community. Zac “Chunko” was more than just a friend, brother, or son—he was a force of nature. His humor, intelligence, and zest for life left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Yet, beneath the surface, Zac struggled with battles many couldn’t see: addiction, mental health, and feelings of loss.
Zac’s death left a hole that seemed impossible to fill, but rather than mourn in silence, those who loved him chose to channel that pain into something greater. From the first steps of planning a celebration of his life to the creation of this foundation, we set out to do more than remember him—we wanted to carry his spirit forward in a way that could help others. Zac’s love for skateboarding, music, and the people around him was at the heart of who he was, and it’s now at the heart of The Chunko Foundation.
Our mission goes beyond remembrance. It’s about turning Zac’s pain into something that can help others facing similar struggles. We stand for mental health, addiction recovery, suicide prevention, and the vibrant community that Zac was always so deeply connected to.
As we move forward, we are grateful to those who have joined this journey with us, including our partnership with Human Social Innovations (HSI), which allows us to focus on what matters most: continuing Zac’s legacy and making a real difference.
The road to creating this foundation wasn’t easy, but it’s been fueled by the love Zac shared with the world. Through The Chunko Foundation, we honor his memory, spread his message, and ensure that others facing their own struggles find the support and understanding they need.
In the words of Zac himself: “Quit being a bitch. Do it switch.” And with that, we continue his mission of pushing through obstacles, just as he did in life.
Stay tuned, support the cause, and know that your involvement is helping to carry Zac’s legacy far beyond what we ever thought possible.