Our work

Where we help, and where we've given

There are three areas we focus on when funding, with a running record of every gift, so our donors can see exactly where their generosity went.

Where we help

Three ways we turn generosity into something a child can feel

Know a child or family who could use our help? Apply for assistance.

Educational support

Through meaningful projects, resources, and programs that benefit all children. From tangible improvements and resources to specialized programs for children with special needs, and students who, like Caleb, may need extra time or additional support to succeed. Starting with the school Abigail and Caleb attended.

Helping siblings heal

Providing support to children who are grieving the loss of a brother or sister. Whether through counseling, therapeutic programs, special activities, or moments of joy and connection, our goal is to make sure grieving siblings feel supported, remembered, and cared for as they navigate life after the loss.

Family & therapeutic support

Providing children and families facing difficult circumstances with support that can make life a little brighter. This may include therapeutic programs such as equestrian therapy, art, music, and adaptive recreation, as well as helping with unexpected needs, buying toys, or creating special experiences that bring children comfort, happiness, and a chance to just be kids.

Where we've given

Every gift, named and in person

We stay close to home and show up ourselves. Here is where the money has gone so far, in the family's own words.

October 10, 2026 · Friends of Danada · Wheaton, Illinois

Giving back to Friends of Danada

Fall Festival: putting smiles on the community kids' faces

As many of you know, the Danada House is where we held Abigail and Caleb's beautiful service, on a property that has long been a special place for our family. The Danada House staff are truly extraordinary people who helped create a service that was bright, beautiful, and reflective of the light they shared with others.

Since then, we have been having conversations with the Danada House about ways our foundation can work with them to create meaningful opportunities for children and families, including experiences that encourage learning, inspire curiosity, and bring joy. We have discussed some exciting ideas that we hope will make a lasting difference in the lives of children for years to come. While those plans are still taking shape, we wanted to start by doing something small for their annual Fall Festival on Saturday, October 10th, incorporating a little bit of what made Abigail and Caleb so special.

We knew there had to be face painting in honor of Abigail. She absolutely loved having her face painted and was so passionate about it that she wanted to learn how to paint on anyone willing to sit still long enough. Face paint sticks were high on her birthday wish list, and Aunt Sheri happily made sure she got them. Mom and Dad often became her first and most frequent customers. We are certain Abigail was smiling down on us as children and families filled the fest the weekend following her 8th heavenly birthday, with colorful faces and joyful smiles.

In honor of Caleb, we donated a hexagon sandbox filled with dried corn kernels for Danada's corn play area, along with two John Deere Big Scoop loaders. Caleb loved the tractor rides at Danada and looked forward to them every year. The corn box quickly became a favorite attraction, with children jumping right in and playing for hours.

Seeing the laughter and joy on so many children's faces brought warmth to our hearts, but also heartbreak, knowing Abigail and Caleb should have been there enjoying those same moments. Despite the pain of missing them, we find comfort in knowing their light continues to shine through the happiness they inspire in others.

Volunteers beside the Friends of Danada face painting sign, showing the designs children could choose from

A child laughing while admiring a purple butterfly painted on her face

Two children with tiger face paint smiling at the Fall Festival

The hexagon corn box donated in Caleb's honor, filled with dried corn and toy loaders, with the foundation's plaque on the front

In progress

What we're working on next

In progress

Abigail and Caleb's school

Working with the school Abigail and Caleb attended on improvements and educational resources.

In progress

Abigail and Caleb's library

Working with the library Abigail and Caleb frequented, where they participated in activities on a regular basis for the past six years.

Give a child a moment they'll remember

Every dollar stays in Chicagoland and goes to a child or family we have met in person.

Donate now Other ways to help

Abigail & Caleb's Legacy Foundation is a recognized nonprofit organization with IRS approval and its own Employer Identification Number (EIN). As a tax-exempt charitable organization, eligible donations made to the Fund are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.