PUTTING A SMILE ON THE FACES AROUND US
Celebrating 11 Years
Our History
Make Em Smile Foundation began with a simple idea: to bring joy to children and families during the holiday season through an annual toy drive in Reno, Nevada. What started with just a few donations quickly grew into a community-wide effort.
Over the past decade, that one act of kindness has evolved into a full nonprofit organization dedicated to creating positive change year-round. We've expanded beyond holiday giving to offer emotional wellness programs in schools, community outreach events, and initiatives that uplift those facing hard times.
Now celebrating over 11 years of service, Make Em Smile continues to grow—spreading light, building connection, and proving that the smallest act can spark the greatest impact.
Our Mission
At Make Em Smile Foundation, our mission is to spread love, light, and healing through purposeful acts of kindness that uplift children, families, and entire communities. We believe that kindness is a powerful form of healing—and even the smallest action can create a ripple that changes lives.
Our programs, like the Find Your Roar school initiative, empower youth to discover their voice, build emotional awareness, and lead with purpose. Through storytelling, music, and mindfulness, we help students understand their value and inspire them to believe in a brighter future.
From our annual Make Em Smile Toy Drive to year-round outreach, we are dedicated to reminding people they are not alone—and that they matter. We are here to encourage hope, strengthen community, and make a lasting difference—one smile at a time.
Our Why?
We believe that everyone—especially children—deserves to feel seen, supported, and loved. Make Em Smile Foundation was born from the idea that even the smallest act of kindness can leave a lasting impact. A smile. A gift. A moment of hope. These are the things that can change someone’s day—or their life.
We exist to bring light into dark places.
To show up for those going through hard times.
To create safe, joyful spaces where people feel they matter.
Through our school programs, community outreach, and annual toy drive, we’re here to remind the world that love still leads, kindness still heals, and that we’re stronger when we lift each other up.
Because sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do...
is simply make someone smile.
#makeemsmile
