Dear Friends, Families, Supporters, and Everyone Who Believes in the Mission of Smiles for Jake,

I would like to personally invite you to join us for our annual Miles for Smiles 5K Fun Run & Memory Walk on Thursday, July 30.

Miles for Smiles is more than a walk or a run—it is an opportunity for our community to come together to remember those we love, support one another, and remind each other that no one has to walk through grief alone.

This year, we will honor the lives of those we have lost to suicide and other heartbreaking circumstances. Together, we will also acknowledge the profound impact of two recent losses to suicide within the Forestview Middle School community. Our hearts remain with every student, family member, educator, friend, and loved one who has been affected.

As part of this year’s event, Smiles for Jake will be working alongside the faculty and staff of Forestview Middle School, as well as other community leaders, to provide a caring, supportive presence for anyone who may need encouragement, connection, or simply someone to listen.

We invite you to bring a photograph, keepsake, or special memory of the person you are honoring. Together, we will pause for a moment of silence before choosing to celebrate the lives they lived by embracing hope, kindness, compassion, and joy.

This year’s event also marks what would have been Ava Starr’s 12th birthday. We extend a special invitation to the Forestview Middle School community, and everyone whose lives have been touched by loss to join us in remembering, healing, and finding strength together.

As a small thank-you for joining us, use the registration code BUTTERFLY to receive $10 off your registration. (Just don’t tell my interns I shared their secret!)

This event has been planned entirely by our amazing summer interns, whose dedication and compassion have created an experience that honors loved ones while raising funds for suicide prevention, mental health awareness, and the Gracie Lee Fund.

Whether you walk, run, volunteer, or simply stand beside someone who needs support, your presence matters.

Together, we remember.
Together, we heal.
Together, we choose hope.

You can find additional registration information in this link and the flyer attached; I sincerely hope to see you on July 30.

With gratitude,

Sarah Smith
Executive Director
Smiles for Jake