Our Mission:
Dexter's Dream helps to provide opportunities for families impacted by special needs / disabilities / unique needs (or whatever your family's language is) to experience life together and create lasting memories!
Support the Mission
Your generosity fuels smiles!
As a 501(c)(3) organization we rely on the generosity of people like you to grow our impact on families and the world.
Connect with us via Venmo @DextersDream-Foundation
Or with PayPal!
Create Lasting memories
We'll be honest, we've been busy creating experiences for families and have not put too much time into a website (so there is more coming soon)!
Our Story
Who We Are
In 2009 Bob and Wendy Andersen's world was turned upside down when their first born son Dexter was diagnosed with Tuberous Sclerosis, Epilepsy and later Autism.
All the expectations of new parents and exciting future possibilities of a young child were suddenly called into question.
They knew that day in the hospital, they had a decision to make.
They chose to Refine Normal.
As time passed and they experienced life together as a family, there was a realization that there were not many inclusive events, environments or locations to enjoy. No safe places or experiences that truly included everyone and was a "Judgement Free Zone."
They heard stories of families not ever going to movies, avoiding bowling alleys, rarely taking their family out to events. As a family, Bob and Wendy were active in organizations and helping their children to have as many life experiences as possible and these stories pulled on their heart strings. It was at this moment when Dexter’s Dream was created! To this day, their mission and impact continues to grow as they launch and hold events in Southwest Iowa with the vision of someday reaching families across the nation.
Dexter’s Dream held Sensory Friendly movies, Bowling leagues and family dinners in partnership Our Gathering Place Omaha before the Covid-19 shut down. During the pandemic Dexter’s Dream provided families with game bags from Adaptivities and fidget toys and has held a Family Day at Pumpkin Hill Farms and their 1st Sensory Santa event. As it is safe to continue having events, Dexter’s Dream will continue with it’s mission and most importantly a safe, fun environment for families to laugh, smile and enjoy their time!
When it came down to it, We chose to redefine normal.
Wendy Andersen