Creating More Inclusive Classrooms Through Storytelling, Compassion & Connection.
The Hazelnut Movement
A nonprofit outreach initiative born from Julia Erman’s personal story as a mother raising children with profound disabilities and complex medical needs.
What began as a desire to help others better understand her children’s world grew into a mission focused on helping students better understand disabilities, differences, empathy, and belonging through engaging school assemblies and educational experiences.
Through storytelling, interactive conversations, and real-life examples, our assemblies create meaningful moments that encourage students to include, support, and care for one another both inside and outside the classroom.
"I am so inspired by this amazing mother and human, Julia Erman! I drove an hour to see her perform the Hazelnut Program at a school and she completely moved me. Her story is that of a true hero: grounded, resilient, and shaped by incredible life experiences. As a cancer survivor and mom of two children with ultra-rare diseases, Julia speaks with a strength and joy that is truly remarkable. She wears her story with pride, her head held high, and a smile that lights up a room. Her message is both heartfelt and to the point. She is authentic, engaging, and has a special gift for capturing kids' attention with her energetic and fun personality. Julia also interacts beautifully with her audience, making everyone feel connected and seen."
Carolina Sommer
Our Heart Behind The Mission
We believe compassion begins when children are given the opportunity to truly understand one another.
Every assembly is designed to create lasting conversations that extend far beyond the event itself — helping schools build cultures where kindness, empathy, and inclusion become part of everyday life.
As a nonprofit initiative, sponsorships and partnerships help us continue expanding access to schools and communities that may not otherwise have the resources to bring these programs in.
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