Benjamin and Andy Hill moved to Colorado during the pandemic. New to the community, they wanted to find a way to make a difference in their new home. The couple wanted to connect and collaborate with one main goal: to create a more inclusive world.
They set out to find disruptive nonprofits focused on inclusion for youth and young adults. “We wanted to identify nonprofits that inspired us and then connect these nonprofits with instrumental and committed individuals looking to collaborate to create meaningful change for millions of kids who are often unseen, unheard, and underrepresented,” said Benjamin.
The two came up with the name beuncommon for their mission as they feel all people are uniquely perfect and have uncommon gifts. However, society communicates that those gifts should be downplayed or hidden. “When you become your uncommon self, you can be happy,” said Andy. “Many feel they can’t be loved or accepted if they live authentically. We are focused on creating ways to remind us all that being uncommon is our gift.”
One of the first charities they partnered with was Encircle. Encircle works directly with LGBTQ youth and young adults and helps them thrive. LGBTQ youth are three times more likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual peers, and forty-eight percent of transgender adults reported having made a suicide attempt. Encircle has built homes in communities where LGBTQ youth need a safe place to go. They provide daily programs, therapy, and friendship circles. Through the weekly friendship circles, those who attend are allowed to tell their story and connect with peers in a safer space facilitated by Encircle staff.
Encircle has three homes opened in Utah and has identified suitable areas for expansion, including Colorado. The current goal with the Encircle partnership is to raise funds to build a home in Denver or the surrounding areas.