The inspiration for the name “Gilly’s Friends” came from the group of kids Jordan always brought to my house. I always say that Jordan collected strays. That’s not a derogatory term, but a description of the eclectic nature of his friends and his heart for people who felt left out, didn’t have a place that made them feel at home, or just need love in a way they weren’t getting it. Many of these friends still call me “Mama.” And let me be clear, many of them have a mom and/or dad who loves them dearly. They aren’t necessarily looking to me to fill that role, but they do value the space that Jordan created for them and my being willing to support it. They keep me tied to him and remind me of why we do this.