Carrying Their Light Forward
​This foundation was born from the deepest kind of love — a father’s love for his children. Jackson and Millie were radiant, joyful souls who filled their home with music, dirt kitchen adventures, laughter, and love. Inseparable and full of wonder, they made life beautiful just by being in it.
Though their lives were cut short, their light remains. Through this foundation, we carry their spirit forward by supporting others — especially first responders — with the same care and compassion Jackson and Millie showed every day.
Their big sisters, Ellie and Ivy, were part of this loving bond — creating a home full of imagination, gentleness, and joy. Their memory is held close in everything we do.
Jack's artwork
​​​​Jackson and Millie were the heart of their home and the center of their dad’s world. Jackson, 6, was gentle and kind, always looking out for his little sister. Millie, almost 3, was bright, witty, and full of joy — always by Jackson’s side. Together, they filled each day with music, imagination, and love.
​​​Our Mission
To carry forward the light of Jackson and Millie Spader brought to our world by spreading acts of love and kindness.
​​How We Plan To Help
​With every dollar raised, every act of kindness shared, and every first responder supported, we carry their light into the world. This isn’t just a foundation — it’s a movement of hope, healing, and heart.
​Support First Responder Mental Health
​​We’re committed to helping those who face trauma every day in their work. We support programs like St. Louis CISM, which offers peer-based emotional support after difficult calls, and BackStoppers, which provides lasting financial assistance to the families of fallen first responders.
Partnering with Purpose
​We’re proud to support Where Angels Play, a nonprofit founded by retired firefighters that builds playgrounds in memory of children gone too soon — a mission that beautifully reflects Jackson and Millie’s spirit of play, connection, and community. Each space becomes a place where joy, healing, and remembrance live side by side.
Creating Space for Grief & Healing
​​​We know grief doesn't follow a timeline. That’s why this foundation also exists to be a soft place for those navigating loss — especially families and first responders who carry invisible weight. We offer grief resources, peer support, and gentle reminders that healing takes time and love.
Growing a Legacy of Kindness
​We plan to host an annual event, raise funds for healing-centered projects, and inspire everyday acts of kindness in Jackson and Millie’s name — from sponsoring a meal for a first responder to planting flowers in a community park. We are just getting started and will keep building ways to grow their legacy with love.
In Their Honor,
With Our Hearts
The Jackson & Millie Spader Foundation was built from the kind of love that never ends — the love between a father and his children. Every effort we make, every person we help, and every smile we inspire is done in honor of Jackson and Millie’s joy, gentleness, and light.
This is more than a mission — it’s a promise. A promise to build something beautiful out of heartbreak. To support those who show up for others. And to invite the world to slow down, look for the good, and lead with love.
Thank you for being part of this with us. The journey has only just begun.
​Get in Touch
We would love to hear from you. Whether you’re a first responder seeking support, someone who wants to contribute, or a community member looking to help, we’re here. Together, we can honor Jackson & Millie by caring for those who serve and spreading light and kindness in our communities.