About Outnumbered
Outnumbered is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by Zachary Penan, a high school student in Westchester, New York. After witnessing his best friend endure bullying in elementary school and seeing the lasting effects it had, Zach was inspired to take action.
What started as a children’s book became something bigger — an organization dedicated to helping kids stand up to bullying and creating communities where every child feels safe, valued, and supported.
Our Story
Zach wrote Outnumbered for his father after hearing stories about his dad’s own experiences with bullying in school. The book follows eight-year-old Jack, who faces bullying at his new school in Stamford, Connecticut, and discovers the power of courage, friendship, and speaking up.
Since its publication, Outnumbered has reached classrooms and families across the country, sparking meaningful conversations about empathy, kindness, and what it means to be an upstander rather than a bystander.
What We Do
- School visits and readings — Zach and the Outnumbered team visit schools to read the book and lead discussions about bullying prevention with young students.
- Community outreach — We partner with organizations, educators, and families to spread awareness about the impact of bullying and provide tools for building kinder communities.
- Fundraising and donations — Proceeds from the book and donations support anti-bullying organizations including STOMP Out Bullying, NAPAB, Stand for the Silent, and Champions Against Bullying.
Sister Organization
Outnumbered works alongside Pink Warriors, a nonprofit founded by Julia Penan that supports breast cancer patients and their families through awareness and fundraising. Julia also serves as Outnumbered’s Director of Fundraising & Awareness.
Get Involved
There are many ways to support our mission:
- Purchase the book and share it with a child, classroom, or library
- Make a donation to fund school programs and outreach
- Contact us to schedule a school visit or partnership
- Follow us on social media to help spread the word