About Us
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
Smileys Nonprofit is a community‑centered organization dedicated to uplifting families, supporting unhoused individuals, and spreading kindness through intentional, dignified programs. We believe every person deserves to feel seen, supported, and valued no matter their circumstances.
Founded in 2024, Smileys began with a simple mission: to bring joy, relief, and hope to families facing hardship. What started as a small act of kindness has grown into a movement rooted in compassion, faith, and community care.
Our Story
Origin Story
Smileys Nonprofit was born from a moment of deep hardship and unexpected transformation. After losing her home in 2024, our founder, Sharifa “Smiley” Sharif, made a promise to turn her pain into purpose. What began as a single act of kindness, helping families with school supplies, quickly grew into a movement rooted in compassion, dignity, and community care.
Why the Nonprofit Was Created
Smiley saw firsthand how quickly life can change and how essential support, kindness, and community truly are. She created Smileys Nonprofit to uplift families, support unhoused individuals, and ensure that no one feels alone during their hardest moments. Every program is built with intention, warmth, and a commitment to serving people with dignity.
Founder Message
“I started Smileys Nonprofit with faith, gratitude, and a desire to help others rebuild the way I had to. My mission is simple: to spread joy, uplift families, and serve with sincerity. Every smile we create reminds me why this work matters.”
— Sharifa “Smiley” Sharif, Founder & CEO
Our Mission & Vision
Smileys Nonprofit uplifts families and strengthens communities by spreading kindness, providing essential resources, and creating opportunities for every child to thrive. We envision a community where every family feels supported, every child is equipped to succeed, and kindness creates lasting change for generations.
Core Values
🤎 Compassion & Kindness
We lead with empathy, warmth, and genuine care uplifting families through every thoughtful action and interaction.
🏡 Family‑Centered Support
Children and families are at the heart of everything we do. Their needs guide our programs, partnerships, and the way we show up for our community.
🤝 Integrity & Inclusion
We serve all people with honesty, fairness, and respect, creating safe, welcoming spaces where everyone feels valued and supported.
🌱 Empowerment Through Community
We build lasting change by providing essential resources and working hand‑in‑hand with our neighbors to strengthen every community we touch.
Meet the Team
At Smileys Nonprofit, our team is made up of dedicated, compassionate individuals who believe in serving with dignity, kindness, and purpose. Each person brings their own strengths, experiences, and heart to our mission working together to uplift families, support unhoused individuals, and spread joy throughout the community.
We are more than a team; we are a family committed to making a meaningful difference, one smile at a time.
Sharifa Sharif
CEO & Founder
Smiley leads with heart first. Her journey through loss, rebuilding, and rediscovering purpose shaped the foundation of Smileys Nonprofit. She carries a deep compassion for families and unhoused individuals because she knows what it feels like to start over with nothing but faith and determination. Every program, every event, and every act of kindness reflects her belief that people deserve to feel seen, supported, and cared for. Smiley pours her love, resilience, and joy into this work spreading hope one family, one meal, and one smile at a time.
Madino Madey
Director of Community Partnerships
Madina brings compassion, reliability, and a strong commitment to community support. She has been an essential part of Smileys through her consistent presence, willingness to help, and genuine care for families. Her ability to connect with others and build meaningful relationships strengthens the heart of our mission. As Director of Community Partnerships, Madina supports outreach efforts, fosters community connections, and helps ensure every family feels seen, valued, and supported.
Nuur Sharif
Director of Operations & Media
Nuur is the quiet strength behind Smileys Nonprofit. His kind heart, reliability, and passion for helping others shape the way he serves the community. As the person who named the nonprofit and the creative eye behind our photos and videos, he captures the joy and purpose in every moment. Nuur’s steady support and genuine compassion help bring Smileys’ mission to life every day.