The SMILE Initiative — The Better Futures

Glide Memorial Project:

In November 2023, Better Futures had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with United Sikhs, a humanitarian organization committed to serving communities in need. Our goal is to alleviate hunger and provide support to the homeless population in San Francisco. Together, we created of care packages filled with clothes, toiletries and toys for kids, which we distributed to those in need throughout the city. Better Futures played a pivotal role in organizing hot food servings for the homeless, fostering a sense of community and compassion. This collaborative initiative not only addressed the immediate needs of the homeless population but also exemplified the power of collective action in creating positive change within society.

Caldor Fire Sleeping Bag/Blanket Drive:

In December of 2021, the Caldor Fire, one of the largest fires to hit Northern California, burned over 220,000 acres in the El Dorado and Amador Valley counties. At the Pioneer Elementary School, Better Futures responded to the needs of the local community, providing blankets, sleeping bags, gloves, and hats to those impacted by the fire. Hundreds of items were collected and donated, utilizing the school as a community center in this time of need.

The Anova School Project:

In 2017, wildfires ravaged California, destroying everything in their path. Due to the fires, thousands of structures were destroyed, incurring millions of dollars in damages. Among these, the Anova Center for Education was destroyed in the Tubbs Fires. Anova is Northern California’s most trusted school, treatment provider, and community resource for those living with autism spectrum disorders. The school works with elementary through high school students, as well as transitional students (ages 18-22) to provide a comprehensive and supportive learning environment.

Those with autism often are unable or unwilling to express themselves when with others. In order to make a lasting impact on the school, and provide an avenue for those with autism to express themselves, Better Futures, in conjunction with the United Sikhs, donated over $4000 of musical instruments.

9/11 First Responders Stair Climb with NFRF:

Every year, the National First Responders Fund hosts a major fundraising event in the Bay Area to commemorate those who lost their lives in the tragic 9/11 terrorist attacks. At the event, Better Futures participates in activities to helps fundraise for the families of first responders.

In 2021, in collaboration with the National First Responders Foundation, Better Futures provided meals to the volunteers and organizers of the stair climb. Some fun facts about the event:

Raised over $124,000
120 climbers onsite, plus 245 virtual climbers
The fastest climbers were 10:18 (female) and 10:88 (male)
The average time to climb was 23m 48s
1192 stairs, 52 flights
59 volunteers

Covid-19 Response:

During the Covid-19 crisis, Better Futures has offered local neighborhoods free grocery delivery. Geared toward seniors, who are most at risk for contracting Covid-19, we hope that this service will encourage people to remain at home to help flatten the curve and slow the spread of the virus.