JSerra Catholic High School senior Eya Kane, a student in the school’s Law Magnet Program, is giving families in crisis more than a roof over their heads. She is giving them a home. At 16, Eya founded Make It Your Home (MakeItYourHome.org), a nonprofit that furnishes and designs fully livable spaces for families transitioning out of homelessness, domestic violence shelters and other emergency situations.
Born from a single apartment walkthrough where she noticed the loneliness of bare walls, Eya realized she could transform empty spaces into places of comfort, dignity and healing. That realization sparked a mission that has since grown into a hands on nonprofit serving some of the most vulnerable families in Orange County and beyond.
In its first year alone, Make It Your Home has helped 14 families in need, partnering with organizations including Laura’s House, Radiant Futures, Human Options, Interval House and Families Forward, bringing furniture, décor and joy to families receiving a fresh start. The nonprofit has also extended its reach to young military families at Camp Pendleton, supporting those forced to relocate quickly due to unsafe housing conditions and financial strain.
Eya’s team sources donated furniture, décor and household essentials to fully furnish homes for families starting over, many of whom arrive with little more than what fits in their car. Each space is thoughtfully designed to feel warm, functional and truly livable, restoring a sense of stability during times of major transition.
Eya’s commitment to service is inspired by her parents’ example of generosity through community work in real estate and design.
“My parents taught me that if you have the ability to help someone feel safe and at home, you do it,” she said.
Her development as a leader has been shaped by the Law Magnet Program, where Mr. Ahle’s mentorship challenges students to think critically, advocate for the vulnerable and put justice into action.
“The Law Magnet has helped Eya see that justice is not just a concept,” her mother shared. “It is something you live.”
Through Make It Your Home, Eya continues to create meaningful impact while also reducing waste by repurposing quality furniture that may have otherwise been discarded.
As she prepares to graduate, Eya plans to expand the mission, ensuring even more families have a true place to call home.
“When a family walks in and realizes this is their space to begin again, you can feel the joy,” shared Eya. “It fills the room and your heart at the same time.”