Why the Dirty Hands Nonprofit Was Created

The Dirty Hands Project was created in loving memory of Ty, whose life and whose loss became the foundation of this nonprofit’s mission. Ty loved all things nature. His dirty hands were proof that he was happiest when he was outside working with trees, fishing, tinkering, and spending time with his dogs. Nature grounded him, gave him peace, and helped him feel most like himself.

Ty’s death, just one week before he was set to begin his freshman year at the University of Massachusetts Stockbridge School of Agriculture, left an immeasurable void. In the midst of that grief came a clear purpose: to honor Ty by helping others who are struggling with mental health challenges find connection, healing, and hope through hands-on work, time in nature, and community engagement. The Dirty Hands Project was born from that calling.

The nonprofit brings people together through impactful events and projects, each designed to promote mental wellness, resilience, and hope. These include:

• Hike For A Change – a community hike encouraging movement, reflection, and connection.

• Ty’s Trees of Hope – a living tribute where trees are planted in honor of loved ones, symbolizing growth, healing, and remembrance.

• SOS Signs of Suicide Training – providing essential education and awareness to help save lives.

• The Overnight Walk – a reflective, overnight experience to support solidarity and remembrance.

• Stand Up for a Change Comedy – using laughter, storytelling, and shared experiences to raise awareness and foster hope.

The Dirty Hands Project is more than a nonprofit it is Ty’s legacy in action. Through every hike, tree planted, training completed, overnight walk, and comedy event, we continue to fight for those affected by mental health challenges, carrying Ty’s spirit forward one project, one event, one dog walk, and one pair of dirty hands at a time.