About
Who we are
Universe Juice, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization, is devoted to reuniting individuals whose lives have been touched by traumatic incidents with the first responders who were instrumental in attending to their needs. Inspired by the personal journey of our founder, we recognize the profound impact and healing that comes from meeting first responders. It was this realization that sparked the inspiration behind the creation of Universe Juice.
Mission
Our mission is to facilitate meaningful connections between first responders and trauma survivors or families who have lost loved ones.
Vision
Our vision is to illuminate the lives of those impacted by trauma, fostering connection, shared experiences, and mutual support. Through these efforts, we aim to cultivate healing and well-being for everyone involved.
Our Story
On January 11, 2022, Lisa Brunetti, our founder, survived a head-on collision with a drunk driver. Rescued by dedicated first responders, including a paramedic named Mike, Lisa's life was saved. After her recovery, a chance encounter at a fundraiser led to a heartwarming reunion with Mike, the paramedic who played a crucial role in her survival. This meeting, facilitated by a series of serendipitous events referred to by Mike as “Universe Juice”, became a healing experience for all involved.
In mid-August, Lisa and her family hosted Mike and his nurse partner Nicki, creating a lasting connection. During their gathering, they discussed how "Universe Juice" played a role in bringing them together. Mike and Nicki shared how witnessing Lisa's recovery positively impacted their own healing process as first responders. The experience inspired them to encourage sharing stories like Lisa's within their community to uplift and energize their colleagues.
The reunion not only touched Lisa's family but also Mike and Nicki, emphasizing the profound impact of such connections on both survivors and first responders. Recognizing the potential for healing and mutual support, Lisa conceived the idea of Universe Juice, aiming to create more transformative encounters between survivors and their life-saving heroes.
Our Board of Directors
Lisa M. Brunetti, President
FOUNDER OF UNIVERSE JUICE. RETIRED DEPARTMENT CHAIR AND ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, JOHNSON & WALES UNIVERSITY, PROVIDENCE, RI
Stephanie Nademlynsky, Vice President
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE, RDW GROUP, PROVIDENCE, RI
Raymond Degidio, Treasurer and Secretary
OWNER AND PRESIDENT, JALEX BUILDERS AND DECKS BY JALEX
James Boomhower
MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL, VENDETTI WELLNESS GROUP, MA, and CRITICAL CARE TRANSPORT SPECIALIST - PARAMEDIC, BOSTON MEDFLIGHT, BEDFORD, MA
Joel Ewing-Chow
DIRECTOR OF SAFETY, ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL, MIDDLETOWN, RI
Shannon Hegy
CO-ANCHOR, WPRI-TV, PROVIDENCE, RI
Mike Hourihan
CRITICAL CARE PARAMEDIC, BOSTON MED FLIGHT, BEDFORD, MA
Nicole King
CRITICAL CARE TRANSPORT NURSE, BOSTON MEDFLIGHT, BEDFORD, MA
Craig Stanley
CHIEF, SOUTH KINGSTOWN EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES, SOUTH KINGSTOWN, RI
Financials
Universe Juice, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) established in 2023.