Emilio was born on July 15, 1999 and had just completed his freshman year at Reynolds High School when he was fatally shot by a 15-year-old fellow student in the boys' locker room.
 

Emilio started playing sports when he was 4. He played Tee-ball, and football, but quickly fell in love with soccer. He worked hard on and off the field to make himself better.

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Beyond his love of sports, Emilio possessed a compassionate heart. In the first grade, he learned of a classmate entering foster care, and he selflessly asked if our family could provide a home. Though it wasn't possible at the time, Emilio's suggestion planted the seed of fostering in his parents hearts.
 

In 2002, the family became certified foster parents, embarking on a two-decade-long journey that would touch the lives of numerous children, forever becoming their "bonus kids." Emilio's unwavering commitment to soccer and his profound empathy for others defined his character, leaving an indelible mark on his family's legacy.

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"I'm here to urge action amongst parents, communities, teachers, doctors and anyone that spends time with our children. Start talking about mental health with your kids. Learn the signs and know how to access resources. Let's work together to take the stigma out of mental health needs and communicate with our kids."

– Jennifer Hoffman, Emilio's Mother