Story by Lauren Duffel
It had been a year since Jake Stockton lost his son, Kade, to suicide, a heartbreaking loss that changed his life forever. Determined to turn his grief into action, Stockton created “Kickball for Kade,” an annual fundraiser aimed at supporting mental health research. Partnering with Boise State professor Matt Genuchi, the event raises money to fund studies on boys’ and men’s mental health, helping to shed light on the struggles that often go unnoticed. What started as a way to honor Kade’s memory has grown into a powerful effort to support those who need it most.
The first kickball event raised over $18,500 for mental health awareness. It brought in nearly 400 participants, but Stockton wanted to do more. Now, the money raised through the event is supporting mental health outreach efforts.
As Stockton prepares for the second tournament in October 2025, he shared his vision: “It’s not just about raising money,” he said. “It’s about creating a space for people to come together, share their stories and find support.” His vision was filled with fun, competition and connection, a place where people can feel safe to openly express their struggles and find understanding.
One of the unique aspects of the tournament was the “Struggle Box,” a large, wooden container where participants could anonymously write down their feelings and frustrations.
“Sometimes it’s hard to talk to people,” Stockton said, “but writing it down can be a release. It’s a way to get that poison out.” At the end of the event he burns the contents, symbolizing the release of pain and the start of healing.
Stockton also implemented a rock painting station, inspired by a grief retreat he and his wife attended. Participants could paint rocks in memory of loved ones lost to suicide, creating a beautiful display of remembrance. “I want people to find their ‘rock’, someone who can support them through tough times,” he said.
During the kickball tournament, Stockton offered a “Resource Row” of local organizations and experts to highlight the mental health resources available for anyone struggling. Since the tournament, Stockton has remained connected to the resource groups, including Genuchi, who emphasized the importance of recognizing the struggles that boys and men face. “Men are struggling in a lot of ways,” Genuchi said.
“We need to tackle this issue from all angles,” Stockton echoed, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in mental health awareness.
Through his efforts, Stockton hopes to inspire others to engage with their communities, support one another, and break the stigma surrounding mental health. “There are people out there who care,” he said. “You just have to let yourself be part of the solution.”
Genuchi shared his take on healthy masculinity, noting that it involves men being able to express their emotions, form close relationships and contribute positively to their communities. “It’s about what it looks like for men to be healthy, happy, well functioning and emotionally healthy kinds of people,” he said.
Through “Kickball for Kade,” Stockton has turned personal tragedy into a mission to support mental health awareness and research. His partnership with Genuchi continues this year with a DIY Dirt Hill Derby competition. On June 28, 2025, Stockton will host the inaugural derby competition that he hopes engages his target audience of young men in a way that not only benefits a good cause but also raises awareness of local mental health resources among the participants.
Stockton hopes to continue to find ways to fund important studies on boys’ and men’s mental health, helping to foster greater understanding and conversation around these critical issues. While nothing can undo the loss of his son, these efforts are creating a lasting impact, one that not only honors Kade’s memory but also offers hope and support to those who need it most. To get involved and help spread the word, visit kadeparrishstayandplay.com for more information.