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.

Values

Compassion & Understanding

Approaching every interaction with empathy, care, sensitivity, and a genuine commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of those the organization serves. This is demonstrated through reunions, events, and programs that consider the unique needs of beneficiaries and treating all people with respect and dignity.

Integrity

Acting honestly, ethically, and transparently in all dealings with stakeholders, including participants, donors, beneficiaries, and partners. This is achieved via transparency regarding financials, using donations as promised, honoring the privacy of our participants, and openly sharing successes and challenges.

Collaboration

Working together with other organizations, community members, and stakeholders to achieve greater impact. By partnering with other non-profits, local businesses, or government entities to maximize resources and expertise.

Stewardship

Responsibly managing resources and honoring the trust donors place in the organization. This is done by ensuring funds are directed to mission-related activities and handling finances with care and respect.

Our Story

woman learning to walk again with the help of physical therapists after surviving an accident

family smiles around dinner table with EMTs who saved one of their lives

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.