world smile day | First Friday in October

Designer: Harvey Ball, (1921-2001) a commercial artist from Worcester, Mass., created the smiley face in 1963. He was concerned about the over-commercialization of the symbol, and how its original meaning and intent had become lost in constant repetition. Out of that concern came his idea for World Smile Day, first observed in 1999.

History: Ball created the design for State Mutual Life Assurance Co. of Worcester, now Hanover Insurance. He was hired to create a design to promote the company’s friendship campaign.

Motto: “Do an act of kindness. Help one person smile!” World Smile Day is a day dedicated to “good cheer and good works.”

Foundation: World Smile Day Corp., founded by Bell, licenses Smileys and organizes World Smile Day. The event raises money for the Harvey Ball World Smile Foundation, a non-profit charitable trust that supports children’s causes.

Web site: www.worldsmileday.com