Building a thriving community is a multi-faceted effort. And when it comes to facets, Blake Simmons of Simmons Fine Jewelry knows a thing or two.
Founded by his father, Jay Simmons, the brand has been a Treasure Valley tradition for more than 36 years. Both the family and the business help support a number of charitable causes and events across the Treasure Valley and Idaho.
“It is important to us; that we support and rub shoulders with our friends in the community and show that we're with them and appreciate them,” Blake Simmons said.
Helping Idaho
“There are certain people who come in and solicit the support of charity,” he said “There're others that we've connected with organically. There are people who shop here who are involved with supporting these causes as well, and it's a gesture of community and good faith to support them where they're at and what they feel is important to the community. It just feels good to be involved with things that are making a difference.”
Recently, that’s included Foster + Heart, a Treasure Valley nonprofit aimed at meeting the needs of children in foster care. Simmons Fine Jewelry partnered with the nonprofit in October, offering the proceeds of the business’ annual Show and Shine event. The gathering of car enthusiasts recently evolved into a trunk-or-treat event for families and a fundraiser which featured more than 100 cars decked out for Halloween with candy-filled trunks.
“That's a need that is here, and I don't think a lot of Idaho understands that,” Simmons said.
A Love of Cars and Causes
The Simmons family enjoy fast cars. Founder Jay Simmons’ 60th birthday gift from his wife was a Lava Orange Porsche 911 with ‘CARATS’ license plates.
Events like the Show and Shine allow them to put their love and community and cars into one spot. The business sponsored IndyCar driver and Idahoan Sting Ray Robb during his last two seasons, who then appeared during the 2024 event and auctioned off a signed racing suit for the cause.
“It is a common passion to support the community in this way,” Blake Simmons said. “Sting Ray is a great advocate for meaningful causes and foster care is a cause close to his heart. It was a joy to join passions for cars while supporting our community at the same time. We have a lot of clients that love cars.”
Simmons has also partnered with the Sun Valley Tour De Force, which bills itself as “one of the world’s most unique charity events.” The high-octane event is set for July 17-19. Proceeds from this annual three-day event have helped fund more than $2.2 million in donations to multiple nonprofits.
“It’s exciting to be part of something that brings people together and gives back,” Blake Simmons said.
“It’s not about the cars or the jewelry,” Jay Simmons said. “It’s about the people. These events let us connect with the community in ways that matter. We love supporting the causes that they do. We've seen the difference these donations have made in many nonprofits in Idaho, like The Hunger Coalition.”
The Hunger Coalition is a nonprofit organization based in Bellevue, Idaho, dedicated to combating food insecurity in Blaine County. Founded in 2003, its mission is to build a healthier community by ensuring access to nutritious food and addressing the root causes of hunger through collaboration, education, and advocacy.
Some events have benefited from jewelry donations, like the Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees.
“We've been very supportive of Saint Alphonsus and the Festival of Trees,” Jay Simmons said. “We always donate a Hearts on Fire diamond necklace or piece of custom jewelry, like last year’s 40th anniversary Ruby and Diamond Saint Alphonsus logo pendant. It’s kind of a joy.”
Making an Impact
For Jay Simmons, these efforts are deeply personal.
“I was born in Idaho, and I love Idaho,” he said. “Giving back is part of who we are. It’s how we show gratitude for the community that’s supported us all these years.”
Blake Simmons echoed his father’s sentiments. “Whether it’s helping someone celebrate a milestone or raising money for a good cause, we’re in the business of making people feel seen, celebrated and valued,” Blake added. “That’s what drives us. We just love spending time with our friends in the community.”
For more, visit SimmonsFineJewelry.com.