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Inspired by founder Robin Lally’s relationship with her brother Rick, who has autism, Help Us Gather was a program dedicated to people with disabilities. Over eight amazing years, HUG changed the lives of so many people through its fun, inclusive events.
Personal experience and professional research show us that people with disabilities possess wonderful strengths of character, inspirational outlooks, reliable moral compasses, and extraordinary senses of humor. Yet, these valuable members of society are likely to spend their lives isolated from strong social networks, productive work, and a fulfilling life’s purpose because of common misperceptions. Our mission has always been simple: to advocate for inclusion and connect people with disabilities to vibrant social lives.
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The HUG team spearheaded a community calendar of events for people with disabilities, hosted gatherings and outings, organized HUG Ambassadors and volunteers to excite others about the beauty of inclusion, and represented a positive image for people with disabilities at community events.
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The result? A lot of joy.
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Help Us Gather was a part of The Helping Project, a 501(c)(3) charity organization.
How It Started
“I came up with the idea to create HUG after moving my older brother Rick to Clearwater in 2015. Finding him medical and job assistance services was straightforward, but helping him build his social circle was difficult! It took persistence and nearly a year of searching to get him connected in the community. I kept thinking there should be a website to organize all of the wonderful things our community has to offer. So in 2017, I started Help Us Gather, or HUG for short. My hope is this tool will make it easier for others to connect to the community, enjoy fun events and activities, and find new friendships, just as my brother did.”
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-Robin Lally, Founder, Help Us Gather
Why Inclusion Matters
1 in 4 households in America are affected by disability.
76% of people with disabilities feel alone and isolated.
People who are lonely get sick easier and have shorter lifespans.
Only 4% of businesses are inclusive of those with disabilities.
Adults with a strong social support network have fewer health problems and are happier.
Meet the man
who inspired
HUG's Organization Overview
Now be
inspired by
Check out the HUG-at-a-glance overview here to see how we started and just how far we came.
