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The James Bainton-Howe – A Big Hug Fund
A legacy built on love, possibility, and believing every child belongs.
The idea for the A Big Hug Fund comes from my dad, James Bainton-Howe — known as Papa to my son, Jay.
Dad was James’ biggest fan. From the beginning, he saw Autism differently. He never wanted James to believe there were things he couldn’t do because of his diagnosis. He believed Autism was his superpower, and he loved watching James experience the world in his own unique and beautiful way.
While gathering inspiration for Airdrie Inclusive, I found myself surrounded by reminders of how much Dad believed in experiences. He wanted James to explore, participate, try new things, and know that the world was open to him.
When we looked through old messages, one phrase stood out again and again:
“Give Jay a big hug for me.”
Those words captured exactly who Dad was — someone whose love was constant, whose support was unwavering, and who wanted James to always know he was loved.
The A Big Hug Fund was created in his honor to carry that love forward.
What the Fund Will Do
The James Bainton-Howe – A Big Hug Fund will help children with disabilities access meaningful experiences and opportunities by reducing barriers that may prevent participation.
This may include support for:
Recreation programs
Camps
Adaptive sports
Arts and music programs
Community activities
Educational opportunities
Sensory-friendly experiences
Other experiences that help children explore their interests and passions
Because inclusion is not just about being invited — it is about having the opportunity to participate.
Why Experiences Matter
Experiences shape who we become.
They help children discover what they love, build confidence, create friendships, and feel connected to their community.
For children with disabilities, opportunities to participate are sometimes limited by barriers that have nothing to do with their abilities.
The A Big Hug Fund exists to help remove those barriers and create more moments where children can say:
“I get to do this.”
How You Can Help Create More Big Hugs
There are many ways to support this vision:
Donate
Help provide opportunities for children with disabilities to participate in experiences they may not otherwise be able to access.
Partner
Businesses, organizations, and community members can help us identify opportunities and create more inclusive experiences.
Share
Help spread awareness that inclusion means making sure everyone has the opportunity to participate.
Our Vision for the Future
Our hope is that the A Big Hug Fund becomes more than financial support. We hope it becomes a reminder of what Dad believed:
Every child deserves to be seen.
Every child deserves opportunities to explore their interests.
Every child deserves to know they belong.
Because sometimes a big hug is more than a hug.
Sometimes it is a reminder that someone believes in you.