About Us

Rooted In Gwen’s Adventures. Grown From Her Legacy.

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At The Gwen Does Stuff Project, we believe every child deserves to feel the wind on their face, the joy of adventure, and the magic of exploring the great outdoors—regardless of their medical challenges. Inspired by Gwen’s incredible spirit and the unforgettable moments she created with the help of adaptive gear, our nonprofit exists to bring that same sense of freedom and joy to other families of medically fragile children. We provide grants for specialized equipment that empowers kids and their loved ones to experience nature together—safely, joyfully, and on their own terms. Because for families like ours, these aren’t just outings. They’re lifelines. They’re memories in the making. And they matter more than words can say.

Our Mission

Provide medically fragile children and their families with grants for specialized equipment to help them experience outdoor adventures and create lasting memories together. The Gwen Does Stuff Project aims to empower these families to experience adventures that enhance their quality of life.

Our Vision

A world where every medically fragile child and their family has the opportunity to explore the outdoors, create unforgettable adventures, and experience the joy of nature, regardless of physical limitations or financial barriers.

Our Beneficiaries

At The Gwen Does Stuff Project, we support families with medically fragile children—families who often face the greatest barriers to enjoying the outdoors together. We work with:

  • Children living with complex medical conditions, physical disabilities, or developmental delays who need specialized medical or adaptive equipment.

  • Families facing financial, physical, or logistical challenges that make it difficult to participate in outdoor or recreational activities.

  • Caregivers and siblings who are often left out of shared family outings due to accessibility limitations.

We provide access to adaptive outdoor equipment—such as off-road wheelchairs, portable ramps, adaptive swings, and pool lifts—so that every member of the family can safely explore, connect, and experience the joy of the outdoors together. Our goal is to create opportunities for adventure, laughter, and lasting memories for families who might otherwise be unable to experience them.

Our Values

  • Inclusion – Every child deserves access to adventure
  • Empathy – We lead with lived experience and understanding
  • Family – Our support strengthens whole-family connections
  • Joy – We believe in the healing power of nature and laughter
  • Integrity – Transparent, honest, and community-driven

Meet Our Team

Samuel Lombardo – Chairperson
Melissa Lombardo – Vice Chairperson
Adam Petris – Treasurer
Cait Rivera – Board Member
Brianna Nicholas – Board Member
Laura Maier – Board Member

Each member of our board brings a personal connection to our mission—whether as parents, caregivers, advocates, or friends of Gwen. Together, we are united by a single belief: that every child should have the chance to do stuff.