“It is our goal to make a difference by assisting these precious kids and young adults with the tools that are necessary to enhance their lives and encourage them to be the best version of themselves.” – Lori Hastings 

Dave and Lori Hastings founded Lori’s Voice in 2011 to help assist children with medical equipment that insurance doesn’t cover. Lori was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at a young age, and Dave was diagnosed with MS—so they understand costly medical treatments and how they can be a financial burden on families. Paired with their love for children, their journey inspired them to help those who may be most vulnerable and otherwise left behind. 

Lori’s Voice was named appropriately when Lori wrote three children’s books using a voice-activated computer. Each book encourages children to overcome obstacles and become the very best they can be. Lori and Dave hope to touch the hearts of children while acknowledging and understanding the many challenges young people face when living with a disability.

Dave and Lori have been blessed with three healthy children and enjoy spending time with their nine healthy grandchildren. They also appreciate the many families they have met along the way. They put their best foot forward to encourage the many kids they meet with similar challenges.

“Difficult Roads Often Lead To Beautiful Destinations”

Rebecca joined Lori’s Voice with a mission and passion to serve children with disabilities. A 2001 graduate from the University of Michigan, Rebecca holds degrees in education and paralegal studies. She has spent the majority of her career working as a recruiter in both the corporate and legal fields, prior to making a career change to lead Lori’s Voice as their Executive Director in August 2024.

Since 2021, Rebecca has found a passion to lead local fundraisers and raise awareness for a cure for Rett Syndrome when her young daughter was diagnosed with this rare disorder. Rebecca’s daughter has been the inspiration behind her sails. Her fundraising passion turned into a greater purpose to serve and support more children outside of the Rett community when she was introduced to Lori’s Voice in 2024.

As a parent of a child with a disability, Rebecca fully understands the challenges parents face when receiving insurance denials, appeals and the need for medical equipment, therapies and services. She not only wants to help families with equipment needs, but also educate families on additional resources and services to help navigate through the hurdles they may face along their journey.

As our only employee, Rebecca oversees the day-to-day operations and long-term planning of our organization. She is instrumental in working with small businesses, corporations and individuals to drive donor dollars through fundraisers and sponsorship initiatives to raise awareness and serve more children through Lori’s Voice statewide. She feels blessed to be in the role and excited to see what the future holds.

“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.” – Charles Dickens

What motivated you to join Lori’s Voice? How long have you been a Board Member?

My son was born with complications, and I’ve watched him adapt and overcome challenges throughout his life. He uses a wheelchair, so I deeply understand and empathize with the struggles that many Lori’s Voice families face. I believe Lori’s Voice provides an invaluable service to our community, and I’m grateful to have played a small part in that mission over the past four years.

What are your responsibilities or strengths you bring to the Board?

I lend a little hand wherever it’s needed and try to support the team however I can. I also like to lighten the mood and provide a little humor when things get too serious – it helps keep our work grounded and connected. And every now and then, they even trust me with the tech stuff.

Can you share a brief summary of your professional background? What inspired you to pursue your career?

When I’m not volunteering with Lori’s Voice, I’m the Vice President and Director of IT Operations at Fishbeck, where I’ve been for over 20 years. I’ve always been passionate about technology – I love watching the constant changes and innovation happening in the field. Fishbeck is a great company that truly supports community involvement, and I’m grateful they encourage staff to give back in meaningful ways.

What are your hopes for Lori’s Voice in the next few years?

My hope is for Lori’s Voice to continue growing and expanding its mission across the entire state of Michigan – maybe even beyond. This organization is truly unique in how we support families, providing funding for essential resources that can make a real difference in a child’s life, such as therapy or vital medical equipment. We also help with tools that make caregiving easier, like ceiling lift systems or accessible wheelchair vans. Additionally, we also assist with non-medical items that enhance quality of life, such as summer camp or adaptive toys.

What sets us apart is that we don’t just offer one-time help; we walk alongside these families, continuing to support them for years, right up until they age out of our program. With the community’s help, we can continue to grow and provide for families in need well into the future.

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” – Desmond Tutu

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” – Desmond Tutu