About HUG
Mission and History
Why HUG Exists
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared tackling suicide a global imperative, reporting that someone dies by suicide every 40 seconds, and for every suicide, there are over 22 attempts. HUG is here to be part of the solution, supporting individuals in choosing life over suicide. This journey of healing and connection begins with you—and that’s why we do what we do.
HUG aligns with the World Health Organization in playing a key role in the global imperative.
Mission Statement
Humanity Unlimited Global (HUG) exists to walk alongside bereaved families, individuals living with long-term trauma, and those at risk of suicide who too often fall through the cracks of the health system. We offer compassionate support and life-affirming resources that help people navigate loss, manage trauma, and rediscover hope and purpose. Through education, empowerment, training, advocacy, and strategic partnerships, we work to create a meaningful impact worldwide.
Our Story
After two decades on the frontline of crisis response, we’ve rebranded to focus on those most at risk. While people in immediate crisis and danger of suicide are directed to crisis lines and partner agencies, we can now concentrate on supporting those who too often fall through the cracks of the health system—individuals vulnerable to suicidal thoughts themselves.
The COVID-19 pandemic challenged us to evolve, meeting a growing global need for support and connection. To reflect this broader mission, we rebranded as Humanity Unlimited Global Inc. (HUG). Our original name, Your Life Counts, now represents the heart of our work as HUG’s core program, continuing to save lives and foster hope.
Since 2000, HUG has helped steady thousands of people struggling to make life work. At the heart of it all is you.
Your. Life. Counts.
Our Impact
Vision
We envision a world where no one is left unseen in their pain. A world where families and individuals affected by grief, trauma, and suicidal struggles are embraced with empathy, supported with dignity, and empowered to heal. Through advocacy, education, and community, HUG seeks to transform how society responds to loss and suffering, creating pathways of resilience and hope for the future.
Hope in Action
Through its programs, outreach, and partnerships, HUG has touched the lives of thousands worldwide. Whether someone is in crisis, healing from trauma, or searching for purpose, HUG offers practical tools, actionable strategies, and compassionate human connection to help them move forward.
“I applaud the entire Your Life Counts team for bringing the issues and devastation of suicide to the forefront of public discussion…the work being done by Your Life Counts is nothing short of amazing. It is organizations such as YLC (HUG) that will change the way we see and speak of suicide and suicide prevention…thanks again to the entire Your Life Counts team for showing leadership in efforts to prevent suicide across Canada and I offer my encouragement and support to you all.”
Louise Bradley, former President & COO, Mental Health Commission of Canada, Calgary
Changing Lives
We help people restore hope, embrace their self-worth, and see life from a new perspective. Empowering someone to say, “My life counts,” can create a ripple effect—strengthening families, friends, and entire communities.
Global Commitment
HUG answers the call of the United Nations, World Health Organization, and global partners to confront suicide head-on, delivering life-affirming support, education, and development worldwide.
Core Values
At HUG, our values guide everything we do:
- Compassion: We meet every person with empathy and kindness, walking alongside them in their journey toward healing.
- Dignity: We believe every life has value and honor each story with respect, confidentiality, and care.
- Connection: We create safe spaces of community and belonging so that no one faces grief, trauma, or suicidal struggles alone.
- Hope: We nurture resilience and renewal, holding space for healing and the possibility of a brighter future.
Advocacy: We give voice to those who are unheard, working to close gaps in systems of care and ensuring that every person in need is seen, supported, and never left behind
Transparency & Accountability
Responsible Stewardship
As a federally registered charity, HUG is deeply committed to transparency and accountability. We maintain high standards of financial responsibility and ethical operations to ensure donor trust and community confidence.
Open Access
We provide clear, accessible information about our activities, impact, and finances.
Timely Communication
We aim to respond to all requests for additional information not already available on our website within 48 hours, reflecting our commitment to openness and accountability.
Charity Registration
Our organization was founded in 2000, reusing a charity registration number originally issued in 1992.
Where we’ve saved lives
