The spark that started a Superhero revolution

 

In 2016, around a campfire at Camp Sunrise in Ohio, Lisa Kollins asked a group of kids a question they’d never been asked before:

“If you could be a superhero—what would your powers be?”

These campers were kids who were too often defined by their medical diagnoses—when really, they were artists, athletes, comedians, dreamers. Superheroes-in-waiting.

They imagined names, costumes, powers. Volunteer artists brought those ideas to life. Then, in one epic slideshow reveal, the campers got to see themselves in full superhero glory—flying, glowing, leaping, transforming.

There were tears, cheers, and a feeling Lisa still can’t quite describe.

That moment sparked what would become The Superhero Project.

Superhero Project Kids photos

Turning vision into visibility

Founded in 2017, The Superhero Project now works with youth around the world who are navigating serious illnesses, disabilities, or other complex mental health, developmental or medical needs. Through one-on-one interviews, each child shares their story and imagination. Then, a volunteer artist from a growing global network (on 6 continents!) creates a personalized superhero poster that captures their inner power.

In Lisa’s words:

“It’s not just art. It’s identity. It’s strength. It’s visibility.”

And the latest numbers tell the story:

  • 1,700+ interviews

  • 1,700+ superheroes

  • 1,700+ posters

  • 1,700+ smiles

  • 700+ artists from six continents

From hospital beds to classrooms to living rooms, kids are seeing themselves in a new light—and the world is too.

Lifting off with SEA Change

In 2023, Lisa joined the SEA Change accelerator in Northeast Ohio to refine her business model and elevate her pitch. The timing couldn’t have been better.

“My SEA Change experience was invaluable. I was able to conceptualize a way to invite groups of youth to participate and offer their sponsoring groups (hospitals, schools, inclusive cheerleading and baseball teams) the chance to celebrate their kiddos with a gallery of their very own superhero squads. That’s been extremely helpful for us to increase both our reach and our revenue.” – Lisa Kollins

With the clarity, confidence, and strategy she gained from the program, The Superhero Project has reached new heights—including a feature on The Kelly Clarkson Show where Lisa’s work was shared with a national audience.

(Yes, there were more tears and cheers.)

What’s next for this League of Extraordinary Kids?

With exhibitions like Look at Me: Recognition and Representation in a New Pantheon of Superheroes, The Superhero Project continues to change how we see power, illness, disability—and each other.

Their newest initiative is called Heroes Within, which supports LGBTQIA+ youth. “This population is incredibly vulnerable right now,” said Lisa, “and we are honored and thrilled to be uplifting them during this tough time. After the interviews are complete, a touring exhibit will bring the powerful and joyful images to several venues, and we hope that the digital exhibit on our website will help young people everywhere find community and feel as though they’re not alone.”

Interested families and artists can contact The Superhero Project at hello@shpkids.org to learn more! Participation is free and open to families around the world.

Come join the Alumni

Lisa Kollins is a 2023 Alumni of SEA Change - a Social Enterprise Accelerator program for entrepreneurs who want to do good and do well from day one. 

Social Enterprise is the business of the future. Join the movement!

Lisa Kollins and Lauren Edwards
 
AlumniBrian Kuric (SEAC)