Children and adults alike walk away from our programs with a deeper sense of compassion — for themselves, their friends, and individuals affected by disabilities. They leave with a rich understanding that every life has purpose, every story matters, and we are all uniquely created on purpose, for a purpose.
Every Book You Buy
Gives a Book
For each book purchased, we donate one to a child, family, or classroom in need. Because every child deserves to feel seen.
Julia Erman
Julia Erman is a wife, mom, author, and advocate living in East Tennessee with her husband and two incredible children, both of whom are affected by a rare genetic disorder. Her journey as a special needs parent opened her eyes to the lack of understanding and inclusivity surrounding disability, inspiring her to take action.
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In 2022, Julia founded The Hazelnut Movement, a mission-driven initiative dedicated to spreading awareness and fostering compassion among children, parents, and educators. Through her work, she empowers others to see the beauty in every story and embrace the unique purpose behind every life.
Hi, I’m Julia Erman — and I believe your story can change the world.
Julia believes that storytelling has the power to create connection and compassion. Through her books, speaking engagements, and programs, she sparks meaningful conversations that bridge the gap between children with special needs and their peers, helping communities grow in empathy and understanding.
As the founder of Made4More LLC, Julia continues her mission to ensure that no one walks alone. Whether through her writing, speaking, or daily devotionals, she inspires others to find purpose in their own stories and share them authentically to create a ripple effect of hope and change
Share Your Child’s Story
Every child deserves to be seen, understood, and welcomed. At The Hazelnut Movement, we partner with families to thoughtfully share children’s stories in classrooms and school assemblies—stories that build compassion, understanding, and belonging for all students.
By completing the Child Storytelling Form, you help us create an age-appropriate, respectful version of your child’s story that highlights who they are beyond a diagnosis. Your input allows us to honor your boundaries while helping classmates better understand differences, grow in empathy, and learn how to love others well. If you feel called to share your child’s story, we would be honored to walk this journey with you.
"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
Your Gift Creates Compassion
Every donation helps us provide books and resources to families, educators, and children who need them most. Whether you give $5 or $50, you're helping us spark empathy, inclusion, and lifelong understanding.
​The Hazelnut Movement is a program run alongside Luke 14 Ministries an official 501 (C) (3).
The Hazelnut Movement
Founded in 2022 with a mission to provide parents and educators with resources to help teach children about their peers with disabilities — fostering understanding, empathy, and acceptance.
As a special needs parent of two children affected by a rare genetic disorder within the NKH family, I quickly realized how many parents and educators struggle with how to discuss disability. Some fear saying the wrong thing, while others avoid the topic entirely due to a lack of proper guidance. That’s exactly where The Hazelnut Movement steps in!
We believe that storytelling is the catalyst for compassion. Through our growing collection of books, we help initiate those crucial conversations — one story at a time. Our 1:1 Book Gifting Program allows every book purchased to provide a free book to a child, family, or classroom, ensuring more children have access to stories that celebrate differences and foster inclusion.
But our mission goes beyond the pages of our books. We are passionate about helping others share their stories — giving families and individuals impacted by disability
a powerful and compassionate voice. By amplifying these voices,
we hope to inspire, educate, and create a world where everyone
feels seen, heard, and valued.
If you haven’t yet explored our selection of books, I encourage you to do so. Each page is filled with warmth, love, and the hope of a more understanding world. I promise these stories will touch your heart and leave you feeling blessed.
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Local Impact
Partnering Organizations
Tennessee
Riceville Elementary
Athens City Primary
Soddy Daisy Elementary
Mountain View Elementary
Decatur Boys and Girls Club
Etowah Boys and Girls Club
Knoxville Boys and Girls Club
Knoxville YMCA
Valley Christian Academy
Stanfield Baptist Church
The Greenhouse Church
JC3 Church
Cross Creek Christian School
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Washington State
Cle Elum Roslyn Elementary
Cedar Trails Elementary
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Sponsor a Program Today!
Business Partner Opportunities:
Partner with the Hazelnut Movement to bring inclusive, joy-centered assemblies to schools and community programs. Through engaging storytelling, music, and movement, these assemblies celebrate resilience, disability awareness, kindness, and the power of joy—made possible by local business sponsors.
Your sponsorship helps deliver meaningful experiences to children in elementary schools, community organizations, and church programs—creating real impact where it matters most.
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Sponsor a program. Inspire a generation.
Your sponsorship brings inclusive, joy-filled assemblies to children—helping them feel seen, valued, and empowered while fostering kindness and understanding across the entire community.