“Disabled families’ social circles work in reverse. Normal kids as they grow, more activities means more friends and a bigger support system, for neuro-divergent and kids with disabilities, it’s the opposite. More differences mean more isolation for the kids and their families.”
Joe Herr
From Logan’s beginning, the founder, Joe Herr, envisioned creating more than an organization that “just builds ramps.” He knew cultivating lasting friendships and offering ongoing support for the entire family was just as important as the physical projects.
Beyond the Build is the supportive community where Logan’s Friends and their Families will always belong long after the physical structure is built.
Joe’s vision is to encourage people to see beyond disabilities and recognize the unique light and energy each child has. He wanted to ensure that Logan’s Friends would always be supported for the long haul beyond their initial build.
Our goal is for Logan’s Friends and their families to know they are valued, respected, and to be actively involved in their communities. Whether some are more outgoing and independent, or others need extra support, we empower and embrace everyone.
Inviting Logan’s Friends and family to participate in our events creates a sense of inclusion, where they feel appreciated and empowered, even if they are unable to attend.
Inclusion. Relationships. Acceptance. Empowerment.
These principles guide us in creating a space for people of all abilities. It’s an opportunity for the wider community to look beyond ourselves and realize that our life is more than just serving our personal needs.
“When LHS accepted our application for the fence I cried. It sounds silly, I know. They weren’t tears of joy, or excitement. They were tears of relief. Relief, because I knew the process would be smooth, and we would be held. Our family would be held, and taken care of, our needs and limitations were known and deeply understood.
My hope is that Logan’s Heart and Smiles experiences an abundance of gifts and donations to continue the legacy of improving lives. Each family has a story to tell and hearts to touch. The most understanding, patient, compassionate, and empathetic people are those whose lives have been touched by an individual with a disability. It changes the lens of which you view your world for the better.”
Otto’s Mom
Beyond the Build Events
Mom’s and Dad’s Night Out
A night out just for caregivers to have some downtime and connect with others who care for children with disabilities. Spend time with others who understand the challenges of caregivers and exhausted parents, because they live it too.
Child and Sibling Inclusive Events
- Inclusion in our Annual Fundraising event
- Movie and game nights
- Local sporting events (Madison Mallards)
- Pontoon rides
- Decorating and participating in parade floats (St. Patrick’s Day)
Connections Between Families, Community, Businesses
- Connecting families with other families in similar situations for support, advice, and help
“Being able to connect Verona Area Football with Logan’s Heart and Smiles was an incredible opportunity that will spark connections for a lifetime. All student-athletes who worked with Caprice and his family were able to impact someone else’s lives while also making a core memory that will allow them to feel confident going out and helping their community for the rest of their lives.
The boys COULD NOT wait to see Caprice use his walker in his new driveway. They were also BEAMING with pride when Caprice and his family visited them on the sidelines of a big Friday night game. As a program, we look forward to our next opportunity with Logan’s Heart and Smiles.”
Coach Andrew Riley
