In September 2020, Mark and Jacob Iskander—two young brothers aged 11 and 8—were crossing Triunfo Canyon Road in Westlake Village with their family when a speeding driver, reportedly traveling at speeds up to 81 MPH in a 45 MPH zone, struck and killed them. This tragic incident captured national attention and left an indelible scar on the hearts of friends, neighbors, and the entire community. How could such a horrific, senseless act happen in our beautiful and cherished community?

 

 For parents Nancy and Karim Iskander, the years following this tragedy have been a journey through unimaginable grief.  This has been compounded by years of hearings and a lengthy trial that recently culminated in the conviction of the driver, Rebecca Grossman, on two counts each of second-degree murder and vehicular manslaughter, along with one count of hit-and-run driving. Despite this devastating loss, Nancy and Karim remained determined to bring something positive out of their heartbreak. Their vision: to honor their sons by helping others.

 

The Mark and Jacob Iskander Foundation: A Legacy of Love and Support for Foster Youth

 

In memory of their sons, Nancy and Karim established the Mark and Jacob Iskander Foundation, with a mission to transform the lives of foster youth in Ventura County. The foundation seeks to support foster children and resource parents, providing essentials, educational opportunities, and family support that are often lacking. The Iskanders’ goal is to help ensure that every foster child has a safe, nurturing environment and the resources they need to thrive.

 

A Community Rallies: The Westlake Yacht Club Event

 

The foundation hosted its first major fundraising event at the Westlake Yacht Club, drawing over 245 supporters and raising nearly $250,000 for the cause. Guests, including local dignitaries and first responders, gathered to honor the memory of Mark and Jacob and support the mission of the foundation. Reflecting on the event, Nancy expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support, saying, “I am so grateful for each and every person who came together to make this possible. Knowing that our community stands with us in helping foster youth means so much to our family.” Special thanks went to Julie Cohen and Heather Macaulay, who co-chaired the event and worked tirelessly to make the evening a success. "Seeing everyone come together to support us and this mission truly embodies what it means to turn grief into hope,” Nancy added.

 

Honoring Mark and Jacob: Previous Events and Community Support

 

Prior events have included the 2023 community walk, "Slow Down, Save Lives," which raised $90,000 to open the Mark and Jacob Foster Care Ministry. In 2022, the community gathered for a vigil to honor Mark and Jacob Iskander, an event marked by deep reflection and healing. First responders have attended each event, providing support and solidarity while strengthening the community and bringing neighbors together.

 

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Nancy envisions the Mark and Jacob Iskander Foundation growing to provide even more resources for foster children and their families. This includes plans to open a welcome center in Oxnard, where foster children can meet with biological family members in a safe, child-friendly environment. Nancy and Karim are committed to building a legacy in their sons' names that supports foster youth through their most difficult times and ensures that foster families are empowered and equipped.

For those who would like to learn more, support the foundation, or make a donation, please visit the foundation’s website at: https://www.markandjacobfoundation.org

The Mark and Jacob Iskander Foundation would also like to recognize friends and supporters from North Ranch and Lake Sherwood, whose unwavering commitment has helped shape the foundation's journey. Thank you for being part of this mission and standing with the Iskanders.