The Jack Heineman Memorial Fund at The University of Rhode Island Foundation supports Disability, Access & Inclusion (DAI) at URI. The fund will directly help reach isolated and lonely young adults, through social programming and personalized attention. With in-person social engagement, specialized instruction and suicide awareness and prevention, the Jack Heineman Memorial Fund (JHMF) can make a positive impact in the lives of students and foster a sense of belonging to this often silently struggling group. This work has life or death ramifications.

The JHMF is passionate in supporting DAI through the example Jack Heineman demonstrated in his short life of perseverance, kindness, inclusivity and service. Whether it was his Eagle Scout Project addressing basic needs insecurity, or his commitment to helping grow #NoRamHungry while he was a student at URI, Jack believed deeply in lifting up others. He noticed people; he celebrated their successes and he “showed up” for others. But even someone as selfless as Jack can feel alone. 

Despite Jack’s compassion for others, Jack faced rejection and isolation that made it hard for him to recognize his own strengths. His story reflects a painful reality facing far too many young people. This growing epidemic of loneliness is fueling rising rates of suicide. It is time to respond with a more meaningful human approach. Please, join us in being part of this important mission to inspire people and to “Love Like Jack”. Together, we can honor Jack’s legacy by serving those who are struggling in our midst and help people who feel alone when connection matters most. 

“Imagine all the people, living life in peace.”

~ John Lennon

“Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.”

~ Saint Francis of Assisi