Our Story: From One Backyard to a Community of Hope
Mission
Our mission is to create space for real conversation, connection, and support around mental health and suicide prevention, so no one has to walk through the hard alone.
Vision
We envision a community where every person feels seen, supported, and safe to speak up about their mental health—long before crisis and long after loss.
Our Story & Team
Be The Light is powered by a community of people who care deeply—staff, volunteers, board members, and partners who bring their time, skills, and hearts to the mission. We are neighbors, parents, friends, and professionals united by one shared belief: every life has value, and no one should have to struggle in silence.
Together with volunteers, donors, partners, and neighbors, Be The Light continues to honor that original spark—turning one backyard idea into a circle of support for the entire community.
From a simple backyard gathering, Be The Light grew into a community-driven nonprofit dedicated to suicide prevention, mental health awareness, and healing for those touched by loss
What began with barbecues and honest conversations now lives on through Smoke Your Butt Off, Thrift & Gift, and Hope & Healing Mental Health Services, each creating space for connection, care, and support.
Through it all, the mission remains the same: to help people speak up, speak out, and know they are not alone.
Me and my mom love coming down to shop at your store and support your cause of suicide awareness. We always have a great time seeing you guys and talking about life, and we always leave in such a great mood after being there.
We are north of Springfield, but we will gladly make the drive because your store means so much to so many people.
The blessing box more than helped my household. Every single food item was useful ,used,and appreciated. It also shined a light letting us know people do still care. The time everybody put in and love we felt was immense. Thank you truly.
Receiving the Blessing Box helped my family so much — we truly enjoyed the meal. It reminded me why I love living in a small town with such caring people. The contents were incredibly useful and easy to access; we had everything we needed for Thanksgiving, and my kids were even able to help make some of the food, which made it extra special.