The idea for Lucy’s Helping Hands first began to take root during a heartfelt phone conversation on Mother’s Day, 2008. My friend Allyson Siegel from Charlotte called, and we found ourselves talking about one of our favorite subjects: our beloved nieces. (I have two, Allyson has one.). As we compared notes on the girls’ many activities and social pursuits, the conversation evolved into a discussion of the many challenges facing young girls these days: peer pressure, self-esteem, body image, lack of good role models. So many obstacles…yet, so many possibilities!
For both Allyson and me, these thoughts had been rolling around for several months; but that Mother’s Day evening, it became clear that we needed to take action and do something to help the young girls in the area – something to help them build self-esteem, form deeper friendships, set higher goals in life. After a few more conversations and some brainstorming, we realized the solution was clear: teach girls compassion; give them a way to give back to the community alongside other girls, and suddenly, they have power, direction and purpose. It made perfect sense! The girls would learn the true meaning of giving while discovering just what competent, powerful human beings they really are.
It being Mother’s Day, I was naturally reminded of my own mother, Lucille Jacobs, a strong, confident woman who taught my siblings and me to give back every day. I knew she and her indomitable spirit had to somehow be a part of this organization. It was only fitting that my mom was there in the thick of it as me, Allyson, my sister and her daughters started throwing out ideas for how to make this dream a reality. My young nieces really got into the act: 12-year-old Katie started taking notes and devising projects while 9-year-old Summer had the brilliant idea to call it Lucy’s Helping Hands. That May evening, in the midst of laughter, love and a flurry of excitement, an idea was born.
Allyson and I are thrilled with the possibilities that lie ahead. Lucy’s Helping Hands can give you the chance to embrace your own unique strength, while channeling your energy in a meaningful direction. It is our hope that you, too, can discover just how much you can do. Take our hand, and discover girl power…on a mission.
Kathy Jacobs, Co-founder
