Several Tampa Bay non-profits receive generous donations thanks to Tampa Bay's Dancing with the Stars. HUG or Help Us Gather is one of the organizations that benefits.
Robin Lally is the founder of HUG. She says she started the organization because her brother has autism and he was having trouble making friends. HUG compiles social events and activities for people of all ages living with disabilities. They also hold a few fun events every month to promote inclusion.
"Some individuals who were struggling and lonely. Families were sad. We get to see this beautiful transformation where they start to connect socially and everyone's lives change - moms, dads, care-givers," said Lally.
Maxine Simeone is extremely involved in the organization. She is now a HUG ambassador, so she spreads the message of HUG into the community.
"I am so happy to be an ambassador with them. It's so cool. HUGS. We like hugging. We love hugs," said Simeone.
