Our Mission
Hudson Valley HIE-roes for HIE, Inc. (“Hudson Valley HIEroes”) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that supports children and families affected by Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) who live in the Hudson Valley of New York.
Through locally-focused connection, education, and advocacy, we strive to raise HIE awareness, offer region-specific resources, and create inclusive opportunities that inspire hope, celebrate strength, and ensure no family in our community faces their journey alone.
When my daughter was diagnosed with Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE), our world changed in an instant. Those early days were filled with uncertainty, questions, and emotions that are hard to put into words. But through it all, I realized how powerful community can be especially when you find others who understand.
Hudson Valley HIEroes was born out of that realization. What started as a small idea to bring families together has grown into a non-profit dedicated to raising awareness, supporting parents, and celebrating children with HIE and other special needs right here in our community.
Our goal is simple: To make sure no local family faces this journey alone.
Through events like our annual Strength in Strides 5K, toy drives, and family meetups, we create opportunities to connect, spread awareness, and give back. We raise funds for adaptive equipment, provide resources for local families, and build relationships that go far beyond a diagnosis.
This organization is deeply personal to me, every project, every event, every conversation is rooted in love, hope, and the belief that our kids are capable of incredible things.
Hudson Valley HIEroes is proof that something beautiful can grow out of something difficult. Together, we’re showing what strength, compassion, and community really look like.
- Katelyn Farcher
Founder & President
a message from our founder
Where Exactly Is the Hudson Valley?
The Hudson Valley is a vibrant region of New York stretching north of New York City along the Hudson River, known for its tight-knit communities, historic towns, and natural beauty. It is comprised of Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Orange, Dutchess, Ulster, Sullivan, Columbia, and Greene counties. Families here take pride in supporting one another, and neighbors often feel like extended family.
For Hudson Valley HIEroes, this region is more than a map. It’s the place we call home and the community we’re committed to uplifting. Our goal is to support Hudson Valley families whose children have been diagnosed with HIE.
Photo source: Hudson Valley Tourism/travelhudsonvalley.com