Frequently Asked Questions

Why hug?

“A hug is something very valuable that anyone can share, no matter their age or income. This is a simple way to help break down the social walls we've built between each other. It may seem like a small thing but I believe that what we do on a small scale can also be done on a global scale. By simply giving someone a hug and giving and receiving this positive energy from each other, we open ourselves up to the possibility of truly changing the world into a better place. A hug is a wonderful opportunity to honor a fellow human with an expression of unconditional Love. We could all use some of that!”
- Hug it forward supporter Veronica Graciano

What’s the idea behind Hug It Forward?

We are showing the world that EACH person really can make a difference in making the world a better place.

HUG It Forward is about Humanity Unconditionally Giving to spread love, hope and concrete change exponentially around the world.

Click here to read more About Us.

How do I hug someone I don’t know?

  1. Make Eye contact
  2. Smile
  3. Say Hi
  4. Offer an invitation to share a Hug (verbally, physically, energetically). I usually say something like, “Would you like a Hug?” Or “Did you get your free hug today?”
  5. Allow room for them to decline a Hug. Sometimes people are only comfortable with eye contact or a smile. If this is the case, respect their personal space. Politely say thank you and wish them a good day. Each person has varying personal boundaries. Also, we never know what is going on in that person’s life at that moment.
  6. Understand that if someone says no to a hug it's not personal!

What shouldn’t I do?

  1. Don’t chase down joggers
  2. Don’t force someone to have a hug with you
  3. Don’t coerce, cajole or convince someone to have a hug with you
  4. Don’t Make others feel bad for not hugging you
  5. Don’t be rude, sexual or otherwise inappropriate with the potential huggers

How do my hugs help build schools in Guatemala?

Every hug registered on this web site is counted. For every hug, Hug It Forward’s sponsors donate $1 to Bottle School projects.

How do I track my hugs?

Please see our Hug Tracking Help Page for information on how to:

How can you build schools out of plastic bottles?

We are proud to be supporting rural communities in Guatemala using a revolutionary eco-friendly technique that turns waste plastic into buildings. For more information see our Bottle Schools page.

How can I find out more about Hug It Forward?

Look around our web site: Start with reading About Us, find out about our Bottle School Projects and How To Get Involved. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, Contact Us and we’ll be delighted to help.

How do you handle my personal information?

Hug It Forward never shares your personal information with anyone. Please see our Privacy Page for more information.