Meet the Founder

From a very young age, Rebecca Kline felt a deep awareness of the needs of others.

Growing up alongside her younger brother David, who lived with a birth injury and required constant care, she learned early that life was about more than herself. Her mother often shared a story of Rebecca at just one year old—quietly pushing her own swing with her foot to soothe herself while her mother tended to her brother. It was a small moment that reflected a lifelong spirit of empathy and understanding.

When David was four, he was placed in a care home, where he lived for the next 13 years. Rebecca and her family visited him every week. She would talk to him, hoping to see a smile, holding onto those moments of connection. While her mother had a special ability to consistently make him smile, Rebecca carried something equally lasting—a heart shaped by compassion, patience, and love. David’s life left an imprint on her that would guide her path forward.

That compassion showed itself early. In elementary school, Rebecca noticed a classmate sitting out during gym. After mentioning it to her mother, they learned the child simply didn’t have sneakers. Together, they quietly purchased a pair and gave them anonymously. The next gym class, he was out on the floor, playing with everyone else. It was a simple act—but one that reinforced Rebecca’s belief that small gestures can make a meaningful difference.

Rebecca’s mother was a constant example of generosity, always helping others without hesitation. Watching her instilled in Rebecca a desire to look beyond herself and step in wherever there was a need. Through high school, college and grad school, she naturally stepped into leadership roles, organizing efforts that brought people together to support others.

As her life continued, so did her commitment to serving. She volunteered making meals for those in need and eventually started a freezer ministry at her church, providing ready-made meals for families going through difficult times. When her children were young, she included them in that mission—making meals together for a local homeless shelter, teaching them by example the importance of giving back.

One Christmas season, Rebecca reached out to a men’s shelter to ask how she could help. While meals were covered, there was a need for gifts. She responded by purchasing and wrapping about 30 simple items—socks, gloves, and hats—and delivered them before the holiday. The following year, the need doubled. She invited friends and family to join in, and something remarkable happened. People showed up. Some shopped, others donated, and many gathered to wrap gifts together. What started as a small effort quickly grew into a meaningful community tradition.

Year after year, more people became involved. Strangers became friends. Friends became like family. The experience of watching people come together for a shared purpose was deeply moving and incredibly rewarding. It was clear—people wanted to help; they just needed an opportunity.

After 17 years of growing this grassroots effort, Rebecca took a leap of faith and made it official. Our Hearts In Common was born—rooted in years of compassion, community, and a belief that collective kindness has the power to transform lives.

For Rebecca, this nonprofit is more than an organization—it’s a legacy. A living expression of the values she hopes to pass down to her children and future generations. A reminder that we are all connected with all our hearts in common, and that giving of ourselves to others is not just meaningful—it’s part of our purpose. This is that purpose in action.