Bright Spot: Turning tragedy into hope through an annual hockey tournament

BAXTER — When the Baxter community lost 16-year-old Jake Haapajoki to suicide in 2018, a group came together with a shared goal to do more.

What began as a push for meaningful conversations turned into action, with hopes of making mental health struggles visible.

This led to the creation of the nonprofit Smiles for Jake, and years later, the organization's community presence continues to grow with events like its recent Snow Many Smiles in Crosby and the upcoming Jake Haapajoki Memorial Cup.

Executive Director Sarah Smith was a recent guest on the Bright Spot on the KAXE Morning Show and shared details about the upcoming event and its inspiration.

"It's really incredible we can come together, we can give back to the community, we can honor Jake's memory ... and all of those we've lost throughout the year to suicide, and provide resources to those who might need them as well," Smith said.

Although Jake did not play hockey for an official team, he loved skating around his backyard rink. Now, his rink is one of three locations for the Jake Haapajoki Memorial Cup. Smith calls his rink "one of the nicest in the state."

The tournament is Saturday, Jan. 3. It's a 3-on-3 format, with four divisions: expert, intermediate, novice and under 12. Funds raised go toward a scholarship program for Brainerd High School students pursuing careers in the mental health field.

"It's a great day to come together and share laughter and smiles," Smith said.

"And in the dark of winter, you really need that."

"Smiles" in Smiles for Jake stands for "Supporting, Mentoring, and Inspiring Life in Everyone." Smith described Jake as a person who made many people smile, but inside, he was struggling with "brain pain," which ultimately ended his life.

The nonprofit organization offers education, support, programs and events aimed at promoting the message that mental health deserves the same attention as physical health. Their goal is to spread positivity and reduce suicide rates while removing the stigma of asking for help.

"We know that the best way to have conversations and to talk about our feelings and talk about what's going on is face-to-face," she said, while also recognizing that Smiles for Jake meets people where they are online as well. Their website has resources like online chats and peer-to-peer support systems.

Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are available for the hockey tournament, and spectators are welcome and encouraged. In addition to Jake's backyard rink (also known as the Crew Arena), games are played at Forestview Middle School and Loren Thompson Park in Baxter.

Find full tournament details online, and listen to our full conversation above.

Is there a Bright Spot in your community? Let us know!

The Bright Spot is made possible by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund and the citizens of Minnesota.