Flashlight Foundation: 2025 Year in Review
Lighting the Way Forward: A Year of Kindness, Community, and Hope
Thank you for lighting the way with us this year.
Your belief in our mission, your generosity, and your compassion remind us that light is strongest when it’s shared, and because of you, that light reached farther than we ever imagined.
As we close the chapter on 2025, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible community that has rallied around the Flashlight Foundation’s mission to spread kindness, uplift others, and honor Jorden’s legacy.
This year was marked by meaningful connections, impactful campaigns, and countless acts of kindness that created ripples of light throughout our community.
The Heart of Our Mission
At the Flashlight Foundation, we believe that small acts of kindness can create powerful change. Whether it’s buying coffee for a stranger, helping a neighbor, or supporting a local cause, every gesture matters. Throughout 2025, we saw firsthand how Jorden’s spirit continues to inspire people to make the world a little brighter, one kind act at a time.
Launching the #SpreadJordensLight Random Acts of Kindness Challenge
In February, we launched our signature campaign: the #SpreadJordensLight Random Acts of Kindness (RAOK) Challenge. This movement invited our community to honor Jorden by performing acts of kindness, big or small, and sharing their stories.
So many people shared their random acts of kindness with us and the response was overwhelming.
One particularly touching story came from Donna, Jorden’s grandmother and co-founder of the foundation, who expressed gratitude to Mr. Clark, one of Jorden’s former teachers who played a pivotal role in helping him stay focused and graduate. This moment perfectly captured the spirit of the challenge: honoring those who make a lasting difference.
In March, we celebrated the conclusion of the challenge by announcing our winners, who received $50 Amazon gift cards and some Flashlight Foundation swag. But the true impact was seeing how many lives were touched by simple, intentional acts of kindness.
Growing Our Community
We were also honored to be featured on the Yinz Are Good podcast with host Tressa Glover. In Episode 163, we shared the heart behind the Flashlight Foundation, how it began, the legacy of Jorden, and why kindness matters now more than ever. It was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on our journey and connect with listeners who care deeply about the good happening in our community.
Giving Back: Supporting the Lower Valley Food Bank
This summer, we were proud to support the Lower Valley Food Bank, an organization doing critical work to ensure local families have access to food during times of need. Addressing food insecurity is one small but meaningful way we continue to turn compassion into action, staying rooted in our mission to uplift and support our community in tangible ways.
Supporting Our Youth: Rugby Team Sponsorship
For the second consecutive year, we were honored to support the West Allegheny Senior High School boys’ rugby team. Investing in our youth and supporting their athletic journeys is one way we keep Jorden’s spirit alive—he believed deeply in the power of teamwork, resilience, and community.
Custom Kicks for a Cause
In September and October, we launched a unique fundraiser featuring custom-designed Nike Air Force 1 sneakers, hand-crafted by local artist VC2art. Countdown posts built excitement throughout October, and the campaign raised vital funds while spotlighting incredible local talent. One lucky supporter walked away with a truly one-of-a-kind prize.
Partnering for the Holidays
December brought the warmth of the holiday season as we partnered with Moon Parks & Recreation for their Community Giving Nights at the Moon Holiday Lights Drive-Through. On December 18th, we were able to connect with families as they enjoyed the festive displays and raised funds for our Christmas Wishes campaign. It was a nice reminder that the holidays are about generosity and joy.
Holiday Giving in Action
During the holiday season, we were able to help fulfill Christmas wishes for four local families, providing a total of $2,000 in support. We’re so honored that we were able to provide this support when it mattered most.
Speaking Out: Honoring Victims of Gun Violence
On December 16th, we participated in a powerful vigil at Sewickley United Methodist Church hosted by CeaseFirePA. Donna, Jorden’s grandmother, courageously shared Jorden’s story and the mission of the Flashlight Foundation, helping raise awareness about gun violence prevention while promoting healing and peace. Read the TribLive article here.
While we can never bring Jorden back, we can work to prevent other families from experiencing the same heartbreak. We remain committed to being part of the conversation, and the solution, while continuing to spread light and hope.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The Flashlight Foundation was born from both heartbreak and hope. As we move into 2026, we remain committed to transforming pain into purpose, one act of kindness at a time. We’re excited to build on this year’s momentum through new campaigns, community partnerships, and opportunities to continue spreading Jorden’s light where it’s needed most.
Jorden’s kindness touched countless lives. Through the Flashlight Foundation, his spirit lives on not just in memory, but in action. Every time someone chooses compassion, shows up for another person, or performs a simple act of kindness inspired by his story, that light continues to shine.
Together, we carry it forward.
How will you spread kindness today?
The Flashlight Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to spreading kindness, uplifting communities, and honoring Jorden’s legacy. You can help support our mission through donations and stay connected by following us on Facebook and Instagram.
