About us
Our Story
In 2012, the birth of twin boys marked the beginning of a journey that would eventually lead to the creation of Hands On Well. What began as a personal moment of gratitude slowly grew into a commitment to give back and support communities in need.
When the twins were born, one of the boys faced a serious medical challenge. Thanks to dedicated doctors and medical care, both children were eventually able to return home healthy. That experience left the family with a deep sense of gratitude and a desire to share that blessing with others.
As an artist, Lee began exploring how creativity and collaboration could bring people together while supporting meaningful causes. Over time, these efforts expanded into collaborative community projects that connect people through shared experiences, creativity, and generosity.
As a Korean artist raising four children in the United States, the founder and artist, Lee Ko, also began thinking deeply about the importance of cultural roots and connection. She wanted her children to grow up with an understanding of their heritage while also sharing the richness of Korean culture with the community around them. This vision later grew into cultural programs and community events that connect people through art, music, food, and storytelling.
Along the way, small traditions helped bring the community together. In the Mother’s Day season of 2026, the 17 Butterflies Project was launched as a new way to share gratitude, taking the place of our previous tradition of baking flower cupcakes. The project was inspired by Lee Ko’s work, Flutter Across Time, which is currently being showcased at the London Craft Week 2026. What began as a simple gesture of thanks has now grown into a meaningful initiative where each handmade butterfly carries the hope of bringing clean water to those in need.
Creating the nonprofit was also a promise to continue the family tradition of giving back. At the time, the children were still very young, and it was actually the kids who came up with the name “Hands On Well.” To them, it meant the hands that help build wells — many hands coming together to bring water and hope to others.
In 2023, these growing initiatives were formally organized as Hands On Well, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting well projects while building connections through art, culture, and community engagement.
Today, Hands On Well continues to grow through collaborative programs and the generosity of supporters who believe in the power of community. Every contribution helps bring clean water to families while also strengthening connections between people, cultures, and communities.
If you would like to learn more or share your story, feel free to reach out at info@handsonwell.org.
Together, your hands can help uplift the lives of others.
