Where other nonprofits focus on providing essentials like food or clothing, BeLikeTommy Project focuses on something unique but equally important: joy. Creating joyful moments for kids who have experienced hardship is at the heart of what they do.
Kevin and Nicole Nash started the nonprofit after their 14-year-old son Tommy passed away suddenly from cardiac arrest when sledding with his sisters in 2021. “Tommy’s superpower was seeing people when others didn’t,” says Nicole. “He always knew when someone needed a laugh and brought joy to those when they really needed it. And so we created the BeLikeTommy Project as a way to honor him and keep his spirit alive.”
BeLikeTommy Project focuses on creating joyful experiences for kids ages 10 to 18 in the West Metro area, from arranging for kids to see their favorite band live to helping them go to prom.
“We threw a birthday party for a young boy who had never had his birthday celebrated because of finances,” recalls Kevin. “We took him to the amusement park at the Mall of America, and it took him a while to understand that all these people were there to celebrate him. He had never had that feeling or experienced anything like that before.”
For Nicole, sending 22 kids to a weeklong summer camp was another highlight. “Summer camp is such a rite of passage for kids. It’s where they make connections, build friendships, and create memories,” Nicole says. “Being able to provide that experience can make a lifelong impact.”
The feedback Kevin and Nicole receive means everything to them. One recipient’s parents shared that their son was still talking about his experience months later, a bright spot during an otherwise difficult time. “We hear from parents and loved ones that they see a noticeable impact, and that the kids come back a different person.”
On November 21, the Lafayette Club will host BeLikeTommy Project’’s annual Golden Gala, their biggest fundraising event of the year. “Just like who Tommy was, the gala is full of joy and light and fun. It’s not a boring event,” laughs Kevin.
The evening will feature live and silent auctions, games, a photo booth, and live music from The Selmer Effect. “It’s always a really great time, especially because it’s not just an adults-only gala. Students and friends of Tommy come and really bring up the vibe,” says Nicole.
BeLikeTommy served 464 youth in 2025 and is on target to serve 1,000+ in 2026.
“Between social media, technology, and everything kids face nowadays, it’s a really tough world to grow up in,” reflects Kevin. “Being able to create joy, a sense of belonging, and making kids feel seen and loved is so important.”
Learn more and get Golden Gala tickets at: beliketommy.org