Caleb McKenzie Baker - In Loving Memory

This story is unique, so I will let Caleb speak for himself.

"I like to think, whenever life's got me down, that whatever is happening to me is a test. So that fate can put me up to save somebody else from something just as bad or worse by toughening me up" 7.2.11

"I do not get my strength from myself- I am weak.
You who support me, who love me, and have faith in me- YOU give me strength.
I care not for my own life- I have accepted death already. You who need me, who inspire me, and lift me up- I will live for you.
I am not smart- I am rather unintelligent. You who teach me, who guide me, and correct my mistakes. It is your genius I take from.
Thank you." 7.27.11

"For me, friendship has always been equal to family. Maybe even more so. I love, trust, and respect my friends. I would do anything for them... My friends saved me." 9.15.14

"I am proud of myself. And I won't let anyone ever bring me down again. To those still journeying, I beg you to pursue that which makes you fear. Makes you quake. The things that make you think, 'I can't possibly do this,' because you will never know what you are capable of until you do. And I know you can overcome that." 4.9.16

Caleb was a beacon of light to so many throughout his life; he transformed hearts, lifted everyone up, and inspired people to believe in themselves. As the author of this post, I can say without a doubt that he saved my life when we were young.

Caleb lost a battle with depression in the fall of 2020. On February 1, he would have turned 27. We hope to lift up his memory with even a fraction as much love and support as he offered us throughout his life. 

To honor his birthday, we have created this fundraiser in loving memory of Caleb McKenzie Baker. Our $7300 goal will go directly to his family, and will cover the remaining expenses related to his passing. 

If we exceed this goal, the family hopes to install a memorial bench next to a tree friends have planted at a community park in his memory. 

These expenses are first and foremost to Caleb's memory.  If we surpass this goal, we are looking into various memorial funds and nonprofits that focus on mental health resources and social justice; causes that provide direct help to those who need it, and causes that Caleb would support.

We will not commit to a specific nonprofit until primary expenses have been covered. If / when this happens, this page will be updated with details on which nonprofit will receive funds, as well as opportunities for donor feedback. 

If you knew Caleb personally, you know that the nature of his passing was contradictory to his own expressed character. Above all, we cannot let his memory be clouded by sociocultural misgivings- I have never met a human being more compassionate, intelligent, and open minded. 

Let this serve as a reminder; anyone can find themselves in a mindset that poses a serious threat to survival. This is not special or delusional, and has become an increasingly popular escape route. Caleb knew the secret was to forge deep, lasting connections with as many kind-hearted people as possible, and to provide them the type of support he so deeply longed for.

The problem is that we are all pressured to mask our vulnerability as we get older- a maladaptive trait that does not serve the evolution of society except to its own demise. Look out for each other, and be sure to share powerful hugs when you can. If you can skip Starbucks for a day, have some spare change, or are generally interested in offering support, please donate what you can. Anything helps.

Thanks in advance for your support! As always, take care of yourselves, be kind, and keep the hope alive.