The Helping Hand Project at NCSU
The Helping Hand Project at NC State University is a nonprofit organization that designs, prints, and distributes 3D-printed recreational prosthetic devices to people with upper limb differences, all while providing a supportive community for all kids and families served within the organization. Since the start of the NC State chapter of the Helping Hand Project in 2017, the club has grown to over 80 active members dedicated to designing and building recreational prosthetic devices to make an impact in the lives of others. Since 2017, the NC State chapter of The Helping Hand Project has produced almost 30 recreational prosthetic devices for 17 different individuals.
These devices allow for increased mobility and functionality and give the children that use them a renewed sense of confidence and excitement about their limb difference. It's extremely rewarding to every one of our student volunteers and officers to see this. In addition to the joy of providing these devices to children and adults who need them, our student volunteers are provided with an opportunity to apply and build upon skills they learn in class. Through working on complex cases, students develop leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that can be used in their future careers.
While producing 3D-printed hands for children in the limb difference community is extremely gratifying, the main goal of our organization is to support the limb difference community. It is crucial to us that we ensure each child we work with feels supported and advocated for. Beyond creating 3D-printed prosthetic devices, our members work to plan events for the children and families we work with, along with educating our community on limb differences.
Organizer
The Helping Hand Project NCSU
Organizer
Raleigh, NC
