The name Hopelynd carries deep personal meaning, rooted in love, resilience, and purpose. It was created by our founders—Kellie Hetler and Kara Hanes—two photographers and mothers to daughters with disabilities, who joined forces to build something their community deeply needed: a space of understanding, support, and visibility for families navigating similar journeys.

The name itself is a tribute to their daughters, blending their middle names: Gabriella Hope and Naomi Lynne. The word “Hope” reflects strength, optimism, and the enduring belief in possibility. “Lyn” represents connection, heritage, and compassion. To complete the name, they added a “D”—symbolizing disability, the shared experience that inspired their mission.

Hopelynd exists to bring both the physical and mental disability communities together—fostering inclusion, building community, and celebrating the full spectrum of human ability.

Hopelynd's Name