Michael's Light
Michael's Light is a non-profit focused on turning kindness into connection to improve youth mental health. It was created to honor our son and brother, Michael, whose kindness and light shined so blindingly bright for too short a time.
At the age of 15, we lost our Michael in a tragic accident on Lake Minnetonka. Michael was a perfectly imperfect kid with an iridescent superpower - connecting to people.
As a fearless toddler with big blue eyes and a bright smile, Michael introduced himself and his twin brother to every kid at the park. And in school, that ability to befriend others multiplied because he was bold, brave, and kind - and just a bit persistent! This was his light.
The butterfly effect of Michael's kindness is legit. We see it every day. It inspired our family to start A Kindness Co. and Michael's Light. A Kindness Co. sparks kindness with the amazing candles we make and sell for you to enjoy or gift to others. And, profits from A Kindness Co. are directed to Michael's Light which further spreads kindness to our youth.
Over the last several years Michael's Light donations have benefited:
- Minnetonka Baseball Association
- Minnetonka Football
- Tonka United
- Minnetonka Foundation
- Thumbs Up
- Life Time Foundation
- U of M Masonic Children's
- The Grief Club of Minnesota
- Be Like Tommy Project
And, we've awarded kindness and character-based college scholarships to 12 graduating seniors at Minnetonka High School.
To learn more about Michael's impact or see his stream of kindness in action, visit our website michaelslight.org, follow us on Instagram @michaels.light and @akindness.co, or watch the video below.