Hey U.G.L.Y. exists for the sole purpose of helping teens realize that they are cool just the way they are. We are dedicated to providing content that will help teens achieve self-acceptance while discovering their inner uniqueness and gifts. 

Based in Chicago, Hey U.G.L.Y (acronym for Unique, Gifted, Lovable YOU!), was started by Betty Hoeffner, who is President and co-founder, since 2002.  Utilizing both her passion for helping teens and her expertise in creating and implementing programs targeting teens, Hoeffner is dedicated to helping them handle the hurdles peer pressure and low self-esteem can cause.

"We choose the name "ugly" because it is one of the most negative, words in our vocabulary.  It is a word that teens use to describe others, and most significantly, themselves. When they label themselves ugly or call a fellow student ugly they are unleashing a powerful force of negative energy. When teens see the conversion of ugly to Unique Gifted Lovable You, they start calling each other, and themselves, U.G.L.Y. with a whole new perspective. The negativity is gone and in its stead is empowerment.  Recognizing the value of teaching the concept of "turning negatives into positives," Hey U.G.L.Y. developed acronym contests, asking teens to take words like Geek, Dork, Stupid, Loser and Fat and turn them into positives."



ABC's hit Thursday comedy show UGLY BETTY has certainly helped the cause gain exposure!  Produced by, among others, Salma Hayek, the show follows the tribulations of Betty Suarez (America Ferrera) as she tries to break in to the world of high-profile magazine journalism. She’s smart, creative, and driven, all the prerequisites that should position her nicely for an entry level job. The problem is she’s “ugly.” The show also stars Vanessa Williams.

"All of us have felt like Ugly Betty's in our life and we at Hey U.G.L.Y. are dedicated to helping teens focus on their inner qualities and strengths," said Hoeffner.
For more information, contact - Hey U.G.L.Y., Inc. NFP,8057 N. 300E, Rolling Prairie, IN  46371. 
Phone : 773-480-5858