We Are:
  • Mentors
  • Supporters
  • Lifelines

You Are Not Alone

We are here to connect you to a HUGS Ambassadors, our trained mentors, who have walked the path of a family Carepartner. They are here to offer hope and help or just listen without judgment.

You choose how and when you meet; in person, through text, email or phone. It's totally up to you!

Get Help, Give Help

Our caring volunteers are certified through our customized HUGS Training to provide virtual or in-person support with caregivers who may feel lost, afraid or alone. Whether it’s through individual peer support or our Group HUG support gatherings, you will find an authentic lifeline of support from others who have walked the path of caring.

View Ambassadors

 

Are you an experienced/former caregiver? Become a Certified HUGS Ambassador who mentors others looking for support on their caregiving journey.

Email us at hugs@leezascareconnection.org to learn more!

The Support You Need

Whether you feel like you could benefit from a listening ear and some extra support or you've spent years caring for a loved one and you want to help others on the journey, we're here to make the connection. 

Our HUGS Training is for anyone looking to better care for themselves as they care for others.

Sessions focus on: Understanding HUGS, Giving Comfort & Connection, Coping & Self-Care, Empathy & Empowerment, Brain Health, and Moving Forward with HUGS

Upcoming HUGS Training

In-Person | Orangeburg, SC (OSCH PACE Community) - Starts December 2nd (12-2pm EST)

In-Person | Orangeburg, SC (Cornerstone Church) - Starts February 6th, 13th, 20th, & 27th (11am-1:30pm EST)

In-Person | Burbank, CA (Jocelyn Senior Center) - *Coming Soon

Virtual HUGS Sessions - *Coming Soon

**These trainings are held weekly, for a total of 3 recurring weeks , and for our in-person trainings, they include lunch! Please register at the button below. And if you still have questions, just email us at hugs@leezascareconnection.org 💌

In-Person | Orangeburg, SC (Orangeburg Library) - February 12th (2 Hour Jump Training)

**This training is a 2-hour session and it's a short overview of HUGS that briefly covers each section but does not include a certification! Please register at the button below. And if you still have questions, just email us at hugs@leezascareconnection.org 💌

Upcoming Group HUGS

**Sister CircleEvery 1st Thursday of the Month (1pm-2pm EST)

A time of reflection, sisterhood and respite for Black female caregivers looking to express their feelings and share similar experiences in a safe space. This group is held in person at Leeza's Care Connection in Columbia, SC or join us from the comfort of your own home via Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81998932772

**Women's Coffee Club | Every 1st and 3rd Friday of the Month (10:30am -12:00pm EST)

A space for women who have been called upon to care to find community and connection with others who just get it over coffee, tea, and sweet treats. This group is held in person at Leeza's Care Connection in Columbia, SC or join us from the comfort of your own home via Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/6497929887?omn=89587761678

Email us at hugs@leezacareconnection.org or call us at 803-888-7525 if you have any questions. There is no sign up required! 💌

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Let's Connect

We’d love to hear from you. Contact us through the form below and let us know how we can help. We will reach out as soon as we can!

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Graduated HUGS Training? Take the next steps to become a certified HUGS Ambassador!

1. Review all training materials in the HUGS Ambassador 101 Folder.

2. Schedule your one-on-one HUGS Ambassador Training with a HUGS Team member by emailing us at hugs@leezascareconnection.org!

3. Submit your HUGS Ambassador Profile Form at the button below.

4. Get familiar with the HUGS Ambassador Drive at buttom below.

Upcoming Programming

Dallas, TX

Columbia, SC

Los Angeles, CA

Concord, NH

Words from Our Community

“Regardless of what challenge you are facing right now, know that it has not come to stay. It has come to pass. During these times, do what you can with what you have, and ask for help if needed.”

– Les Brown, HUGS Participant