The SMILE Program (Science and Math Investigative Learning Experiences) has served rural Oregon students for 36 years, sustaining a community of practice that centers teachers as mentors that facilitate afterschool STEM Clubs for 4th-12th grade students from impoverished, rural communities underserved by formal and informal STEM education and underrepresented in post-secondary STEM majors and careers. Participation priority is given to previous SMILE members, underserved students, those who are low income, and those who would be the first in their families to go to college. This year, SMILE served over 900 students in 44 clubs led by 69 teacher mentors across 17 rural districts. These students were 61% female, 37% Hispanic/Latine, 2% Native American/American Indian/Alaska Native, and 15% multi-racial. 72% are first-generation-to-college with 92% from low-income families. SMILE afterschool club meetings, local community activities, teacher professional development workshops, college connection events, field trips, and other activities promote belonging and STEM interest. SMILE students graduate from high school (96%) and enroll in higher education (54%) at higher rates than their peers. SMILE teachers persist as mentors, with the longest-serving teacher engaged for 29 years. Mentors value engagement with cutting-edge scientific research, NGSS-aligned activities, and the reward of seeing students thrive in STEM. SMILE was awarded a 2019 Oregon State University Vice Provost Award for Outreach and Engagement. The U.S. Department of Education and the Corporation for National and Community Service recognized SMILE’s sustained support for struggling schools, naming it the 2012-2013 Together for Tomorrow challenge winner. SMILE received its first PAESMEM award in 1999.