We had the good fortune of connecting with Hailey Garfinkel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hailey, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
My passion for working with people with disabilities surged when I discovered I am neurodivergent. After all my hardships with my neurodivergence, I now consider it to be a gift. This gift has allowed me to gain compassion for others on a deeper level leading to the success of my company.

Because of my disability, not only did I become more aware of my other peers with disabilities, but I also gained a better understanding of the difficult encounters people with disabilities experience every day. My sensitivity to disabilities has given me the incentive to work with others like me and help change lives forever.

After many years of my personal, professional, and educational experience, I have seen the importance social inclusion brings to individuals’ overall well-being. My favorite thing is helping people realize how awesome they ALREADY are and now I get to do that everyday!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. What sets me apart is my personal journey and my dedication to turning my own struggles into strength. I’m autistic, have ADHD, wear hearing aids, and manage multiple chronic illnesses. My unique experiences and neurodivergent perspective have given me a profound sense of empathy and connection with others in my community. I’m incredibly proud of creating Hailey’s Healthy Hangout, a platform and lifestyle brand tailored for individuals with disabilities. We’re not just promoting health and inclusivity; we’re breaking barriers, providing opportunities for adults with disabilities to overcome loneliness, engage in fun activities, and access personal growth and empowerment. I’m excited about the positive impact we’re making and our plans for future growth, which include expanding our community and offering coaching services.

How did you get to where you are today professionally?
My journey to where I am today professionally has been a dynamic and evolving process. It began with my undergraduate studies and my realization that my true passion was in helping people holistically with a focus on empowerment, especially those with disabilities. I pursued various paths, from considering Occupational Therapy to exploring Behavior Therapy, until I ultimately decided on a career in mental health therapy. I pursued a Master of Social Work to combine my passion for mental health with my desire to support individuals with disabilities.

I started Hailey’s Healthy Hangout in March 2020 during the quarantine as a way to provide a sense of community and support for my friends with disabilities who were struggling with the drastic changes brought about by the pandemic. Word spread quickly, and I realized the immense need for a community like ours. Balancing this initiative with my senior year of college and later with the demands of grad school was challenging, but it was essential to me. Over time, I learned to delegate responsibilities to our members and adapt to their needs, leading to the growth and success of Hailey’s Healthy Hangout.

Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges?
No, it wasn’t easy. Balancing the demands of running Hailey’s Healthy Hangout with my academic commitments and personal life was a significant challenge. I had to learn how to manage my time effectively, delegate tasks to our community members, and prioritize what truly mattered to me. As a founder, I initially felt the pressure of making my dream happen with others relying on me, but I overcame it by seeking mentorship, collaborating with a team, and learning from my mistakes. I discovered that I’m highly motivated by my passion and beliefs, which allowed me to persevere through late nights and weekends of hard work. Each challenge I faced served as a learning opportunity, and I emerged from them with valuable skills and a deeper understanding of how to manage a business while staying true to my mission.

What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way?
I’ve learned several invaluable lessons throughout my journey:

The importance of adaptability: Being open to change and flexible in my approach has allowed me to navigate various challenges and seize opportunities.

The power of community: Delegating responsibilities and involving our community members in the growth of Hailey’s Healthy Hangout has been instrumental in our success.

Embracing mistakes: I’ve come to understand that mistakes are part of the learning process and can lead to innovation and growth.

Time management and balance: Balancing my academic pursuits, job, and entrepreneurial venture taught me the significance of effective time management and setting priorities.

Collaboration: Seeking mentorship, collaborating with others, and building a team have been essential in expanding our impact.

The intersection of business, social justice, and mental health: Combining these elements has allowed me to create a platform that addresses critical issues and empowers individuals with disabilities.

What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I want the world to know that Hailey’s Healthy Hangout is not just a business; it’s a mission and a dream driven by a deep sense of purpose. Our platform is dedicated to transforming isolation and struggle into connection, support, and empowerment for individuals with disabilities. We’re not merely promoting health and inclusivity; we’re breaking down barriers, providing opportunities for socialization and growth, and addressing the mental health challenges faced by this underserved community.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
During my best friend’s week-long visit to the area, I’d ensure they have the best time by crafting an exciting itinerary. We’d kick off our trip at Piedmont Park during Music Midtown, enjoying live music, delicious festival food, and the freedom to express ourselves. The following days would include exploring Atlanta’s iconic attractions, a day trip to Athens with sushi at Chuck’s Fish and walking around The University of Georgia, and leisurely moments in the city’s parks. We’d also dive into the diverse food scene, from local cafes to unique restaurants, and savor the region’s flavors. Our adventure would conclude with a visit to Waffle House before departing, leaving us with cherished memories of inclusive vibes and exciting experiences in the area.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Thank you to all our members and supporters! We wouldn’t be where we are today without your involvement.

Website: www.haileyshealthyhangout.com

Instagram: @haileys_healthy_hangout

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