Smiles for Jake
Smiles for Jake is a suicide prevention movement that spreads positivity through life-affirming actions, listening ears, and the message that everyone should have hope.
Smiles for Jake was created out of love and the immediate need we saw for suicide prevention.
Metaphorically, Jake is every man, woman or child that has experienced depression, hopelessness, and despair in their lives.
We use the #wearealljake because everyone experiences the ups and downs in life.
Jake Haapajoki was your average 16-year-old kid. He was a son, a brother, a nephew, a cousin, a grandson, a friend, a boyfriend, an athlete, and active in his church. Jake had a family that loved and supported him in all he did. Jake’s smile was nearly constant when he was in the presence of his friends and social environments. His smile could light up a room like no other. His wild hair and a unique love for his shoes were dominant in his handsome self. He loved candy.
Jake took his life on February 21, 2018. Jake couldn’t see an end to his pain.
Jake made a mistake. Suicide is always a mistake.
Jake’s family and friends, through their despair and grief, have launched the Smiles for Jake Movement to begin work to eliminate suicide and provide hope to all that suffer from darkness and despair. The hashtag #wearealljake was created to represent everyone needing an extra smile, a hug, a high five, kind words, or simply a moment of attention.
Financials
Programs
SMILE ADVOCATE SESSIONS
Supporting, Mentoring, Inspiring Life in Everyone.
SMILE BOXES
Send a loved one a heartfelt box with messages of hope.
Volunteering + Events
Community Events
Bring Smiles for Jake's Mascot Cricket to local hometown events to spread smiles and awareness!
Miles for Smiles Fun Run
Miles for Smiles can be brought to any local community, this fun run can include a walk, run or roll feature from and be in length from a 1K - 5K.