Smiles for Jake

MISSION STATEMENT 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. Born in and spreading from a community that experienced the suicide of a beloved son, our short-term goal is to reduce the suicide rate and our long-term vision is to stomp out suicide worldwide. 

JAKE’S STORY Jake Haapajoki was your average 16-yearold 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. 

WHAT WE DO Spreading Smiles, Changing Lives Smiles for Jake is more than a movement; it’s a dedicated effort to challenge and change the stigma around suicide by building a culture of compassion, connection, and hope. We believe that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a profound impact. Through various initiatives, including the Smile Box and our community events, we aim to spread joy and create a positive ripple effect. Every smile we share has the potential to uplift and support those who need it most. 

• Educate: S.M.I.L.E. (Supporting, Mentoring, Inspiring Life in Everyone) Smiles for Jake provides vital education on mental health and suicide prevention through workshops and resources designed to raise awareness and reduce stigma. Our programs equip individuals and communities with the knowledge and tools to support those in need and promote a culture of compassion and understanding. These education opportunities are tailored to the following groups: 
  • Businesses 
  • Public Advocate Sessions
  • Middle & High School Classes 
  • Teachers & Bus Drivers (CEU included) 
• Resource Development At Smiles for Jake, we are committed to providing the tools and support necessary to foster hope and connection. Through various resources, we aim to empower individuals and communities to create an environment where everyone feels valued  and supported. Smiles for Jake works diligently with local, state, and national mental health and suicide prevention organizations, mental health facilities, hospitals, and regional program initiatives to provide the most up-to-date resources for those in need of mental health and crisis services. Resources being kept include:
  • LivinwithSmiles.com (Hope) – our bot who will guide you each step of the way 
  • Online Mapping for easy-to-find support groups, regional coordinators, various nonprofit groups, and more 
  • Mental Health Resource Guide Sheet 
• Respond While Smiles for Jake is primarily for prevention – we know too well that tragedy does strike. Through a designated fund; families may work with Smiles for Jake for financial help in the immediate time frame after a loss. The response team funds may be used for housing, funeral costs, or other financial obligations directly related to a suicide. 

WHAT WE PROVIDE 

• Smile Boxes The Smile Box is a heartfelt gesture designed to spread kindness through small, thoughtful gifts. It’s a simple yet powerful way to brighten someone’s day and bring a smile to their face. Whether you give it to a neighbor, a close friend, a distant relative, or a member of our military overseas, the true impact lies in the compassion you show. The effort you put into assembling a Smile Box—whether it’s a quick gesture or a carefully curated package—creates joy that is truly priceless. 
• Partnerships Partnering with Smiles for Jake means directly supporting our outreach teams and advertising efforts to amplify our message of hope. Your support enables us to expand our reach, forge meaningful connections, and provide vital resources to those in need. Together, we can make a significant impact by spreading a message of compassion and support to more individuals. Smiles for Jake partners with multiple sports teams and other organizations. 
• Community Events Some of the community events we host include: 
  • Paint the Town Blue 
  • Miles for Smiles Family Fun 5K 
  • Gravel Pit Golf Tournament 
  • Pond Hockey Tournament 
  • Cuyuna Christmas 
  • Live Keynote Speakers 
  • Smile Advocate Education Sessions

LEARN MORE: ABOUT US BOOKLET