SMILYVIST Organization emerged at the start of the crisis to respond to pressing humanitarian needs. SMILYVIST was promptly formed in response to the merger of several local Ukrainian grassroots response teams, comprised of Ukrainians, to serve Ukrainians. The organization prioritizes the primary needs of Ukrainians, including a decent life, justice, and equality, and works to preserve society and its structure by mobilizing community members. In November 2022, SMILYVIST took institutional form, and in December 2022, the organization was officially established and registered in Kyiv, Ukraine.

SMILYVIST aims to support Ukrainians during this crisis by improving their psychological and physical health, as well as their economic situation. The organization is driven by a desire to aid war-affected Ukrainians, especially the most vulnerable, disadvantaged, and marginalized groups, through rapid response within the framework of long-term goals.