FAQ's

What is this fundraising effort for?

Funds are being raised to support Ben’s increasing accessibility needs due to the fact that he lives with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).

The Schwartz family began renovating their home months ago to make it fully accessible for Ben, including converting the walk-out basement into a future independent living space for Ben as he grows into adulthood. They had been told an elevator would be donated to help complete the project, but after they moved to temporary housing, secured permits, began demolition, and lined up generous material and labor donations — they found out the elevator wasn’t coming.

The elevator and elevator shaft will cost $100,000, and other accessibility updates total more than $150,000.

This fundraiser will help cover the unexpected expense of the elevator and ease the financial burden of these life-changing renovations for Ben.

What are the benefits of these home renovations?

Currently, Ben is limited to the parts of his home he can access without assistance from his family or a lift. As Ben becomes more dependent on his wheelchair, the lift will no longer be an option (it only moves the person, not the wheelchair as well). When the renovation is complete, Ben can fully access the entire house independently.

When Ben hangs out with friends, they are often limited by where and how they can play based on Ben’s restricted mobility. For example, many teenage boys have their gaming systems in the basement, which is currently inaccessible for Ben. When the renovation is complete, Ben looks forward to having friends over to visit, and the ability to move freely around the house for snacks, watching football games, and playing video games.

Additionally, Ben requires modification to his bathroom shower, which currently includes a small shower chair. Right now it is not easy for a caregiver to assist Ben in the shower. His future shower will allow for easy (and safe) transfers and caregivers being able to assist.

Can you share more of the details of the renovation project?

The construction of the elevator shaft on the exterior of the house is over $50,000, including materials (concrete, wood, siding, roofing, and labor). The elevator itself is over $55,000.

The family is also making the house accessible for Ben to easily navigate the house in his wheelchair.

There are many direct as well as hidden costs to do this:

Bathrooms - All bathrooms have been updated to meet ADA standards. One bathroom has specifically been tailored to Ben’s future needs to allow him to easily shower next door to his bedroom.
Kitchen - The kitchen design had to be changed with the elevator addition. This includes making many components of the kitchen wheelchair-friendly including a lower island, microwave, and easy-to-reach drawers.
Flooring - Also to accommodate Ben’s wheelchair, the flooring in the house had to be replaced to remove all steps and door thresholds, including adding a smooth, wheelchair-friendly flooring.
Walkway Spaces - The layout of the home was adjusted to allow for more walkway space for Ben’s wheelchair, as well as larger door thresholds for a chair to easily fit through.
Future Apartment - The future with any progressive disease is uncertain. The family expects Ben to go to college, but the basement has been configured to allow for an apartment-style set up if Ben needs it. This includes an accessible bathroom, kitchenette, and bedroom. Currently this space also allows for caregivers to stay at the home, when needed.

What is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy?

Ben lives with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a rare genetic disease. Over time, individuals lose muscle strength, eventually losing the ability to walk. The heart and lungs are also important muscles that are impacted by Duchenne. There is much research in progress, however there is currently no cure for Duchenne. You can learn more about Duchenne here.

How can I donate?

Venmo @Jennifer-Schwartz-95
PayPal brschwartz@gmail.com
Check to Jennifer & Brian Schwartz at 7920 Rocklyn Dr, Urbandale, IA 50322
Credit card via Helping Hands Ministries
Check made out to Helping Hands Ministries - please include Brave Ben in the memo and mail checks to: Helping Hands Ministries, Inc.
1859 Northgate Blvd
Sarasota, FL 34234
Donor-Advised Funds: Donors will need to use the following information when making a grant/transfer from their donor advised funds:

Helping Hands Ministries, Inc.

1859 Northgate Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34234

EIN: 58-2266139

Memo/Grant Note: Project: Brian Schwartz - 31258

Wire/ACH

Bank Details: Bank OZK

17901 Chenal Parkway

Little Rock, AR 72223

ABA #082907273

Beneficiary: Helping Hands Ministries, Inc.

1859 Northgate Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34234

Acct #7074395

Who is Helping Hands Ministries (HHM)?

HHM assists business and individual donors in fulfilling their objectives through tax-exempt giving to deserving entities and individuals in need.

The Schwartz family has undergone a thorough application process with HHM to allow givers to claim tax deductions for their contributions.

92% of all dollars given via HHM go directly to the Schwartz family.