Dex

Dex was adopted at birth, and just weeks before he arrived, his parents learned that he had Down syndrome. He was later diagnosed with autism and hearing loss as well. Now, Dex is preparing to begin high school, a milestone that brings new routines, responsibilities, and opportunities for independence.

For years, Dex shared a bedroom with his younger brother, Gus, who is adopted and has Down Syndrome. But as he grew, it became clear that he needed a space of his own. He sometimes wakes up in the middle of the night ready to play and explore, making it difficult for the entire family to get the rest they need. His parents hoped for a bedroom where Dex could safely unwind, build routines, practice important life skills, and grow into this next stage of his life.

Thanks to the generosity of Beazer Homes, that dream became a reality. Dex’s biggest request was simple: he wanted a “big kid bed.” The team at Beazer Homes made sure he received the upgrade he had been hoping for. On the day Dex first saw his new room, his face lit up with excitement as he explored every corner, especially the "big kid bed" he had wished for. His parents were moved to tears, sharing how much it meant to see Dex so happy and comfortable, and how grateful they were for the community's support. We are deeply grateful to Beazer Homes and all our donors and partners, whose support made this transformation possible and ensured Dex has a space to call his own.

SOARD designer Clareece Cunningham created a bright, playful room inspired by Dex’s love of Pixar while still feeling mature for a teenager. The room is filled with thoughtful details inspired by Dex and his family. In the bedroom Dex previously shared with Gus, their dad had created an arched closet opening. Clareece carried that special feature into Dex’s new room, using materials donated by Randall Brothers and expertly framed by the team at Lee Hainer Construction.

Inside the closet, Clareece created a dedicated place for Dex to store his glasses and hearing aids each night. This small but meaningful addition will help him practice a consistent bedtime routine and take greater responsibility for his belongings.

Safety was another important priority. During the planning stage, the team discovered that the original bedroom windows were not only outdated but also didn't meet the latest safety guidelines. Because Dex sometimes wakes up while the rest of the family is sleeping, our partners at Pella quickly stepped in and donated new windows for his bedroom to help keep him safe. While measuring for the project, the Pella team noticed a broken basement window and generously replaced that one as well. Dex’s family and the entire SOARD team are incredibly grateful for the way Pella went above and beyond to address these surprises and ensure a secure environment for Dex.

Sherwin-Williams donated the bright, cheerful paint that brought the room to life and Legacy Lighting provided the fun ceiling light. Dex’s mom also asked that we keep a yellow dresser that has been passed down through their family. Clareece incorporated the treasured piece into the design and gave it a fresh update with beautiful new drawer pulls donated by Top Knobs.

Comfort Research completed the space with a cozy beanbag chair, and a swing was added to give Dex a calming place to regulate and decompress after school. Small Pixar details appear throughout the room, along with a CD player so Dex can listen to his favorite 1990s rock albums. And, of course, no room for a future teacher would be complete without a mirror for practicing his lessons.

This makeover was about much more than giving Dex a new bedroom. It created a safe and empowering space where he can rest, learn, build confidence, and become more independent as he begins high school and enters an exciting new chapter. Dex is already making the most of his new room. He loves having a quiet place to relax with his favorite music, and his parents have noticed how proud he feels as he takes charge of his belongings and night routine. The whole family is sleeping better, and Dex is excited to invite friends over to share his new space. "Seeing Dex take ownership of his own space has been amazing," says his mom. "He feels grown up and confident, and our whole family feels more rested and connected."