Who We Are

Simon Jones lived his 18 years with extraordinary courage, generosity, and purpose. Despite facing a rare and aggressive cancer, he remained committed to uplifting others and finding blessings even in the most difficult moments. His life and message continue to inspire all who knew him—and many who never had the chance.

 

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​​​Simon Says: "Live a Better Life"

During the final year of his life, Simon created an online platform titled “Simon Says: Live a Better Life.” Through this platform, he shared a simple yet profound message: "Find the blessing in what you think is a struggle and use it to make the world a better place." Simon encouraged his readers to choose positivity and to become a source of light and hope for others, embodying the kingdom of God on Earth.

A Passion for Giving

Simon’s passion for service was evident in the projects he championed. One of his most meaningful efforts was the Simon Says “Happy Birthday” Toy Drive for the Living Hope Food Pantry. In just a few months, he collected more than 300 toys, ensuring that children in need could celebrate their birthdays with joy and dignity. This initiative reflected Simon’s belief in the power of giving and his desire to bring happiness to children facing challenges.​​

Continuing the Mission

Following Simon’s passing, his family and the Olive Crest United Methodist Church community committed themselves to carrying forward his message of hope, compassion, and generosity. Together, they established the Simon Says: “Live a Better Life” Mission, ensuring that Simon’s values would continue to guide meaningful work in the community. They began small, celebrating children's birthdays of families that were regulars of the food pantry. That first party happened 6 months after Simon's death in 2017. Today, they celebrate with children from the Open-Door Mission Shelter, Ronald McDonald House in Omaha, the Salvation Army Shelter, Educare Omaha and foster care organizations throughout eastern Nebraska. In 2025 they hosted birthday celebrations for over 200 children.​

The Future of the Mission

In March 2026, Olive Crest UMC closed its doors after many years of service. For Simon—who had been a lifelong member—Olive Crest was the place where his mission first took shape. Although the church closed, the spirit of its ministry lives on through the mission created in Simon’s honor. Early in 2026, Simon’s family and friends formed a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding his work and reaching even more children facing adversity. The organization is committed to partnering with community outreach groups to provide celebrations, moments of joy, and encouraging experiences for the children they serve.

Our Vision

We believe every child deserves to celebrate, so we’re creating a community where each one gets a moment to be seen, experience joy, and know they are loved on their special day.

​Our Mission

To honor Simon’s legacy by providing meaningful celebrations, support, and encouragement to children in need—helping them “live a better life,” one moment of kindness at a time.

Our Commitment

As we grow, we remain dedicated to:

• Expanding Simon’s legacy of kindness and generosity

• Partnering with community organizations to reach children in need

• Creating joyful experiences that uplift and encourage

• Engaging volunteers and supporters who share our mission

• Honoring the values that guided Simon’s life

This journey is a powerful reminder that when one door closes, another opens—often leading to new opportunities to make a difference. Through every act of service, we carry forward the compassion of Olive Crest UMC and the enduring light of Simon Jones.