Special Spaces is a nonprofit organization that creates dream bedrooms for children with life-threatening illnesses. Founded in 2004, the organization wants to provide a place of peace and comfort to help them heal and recover. Each child's bedroom is sponsored by an organization, such as Dutchman Heating and Cooling, Inc. The sponsoring group not only provides a monetary donation, but they also participate in the one-day makeover and celebrate the reveal with the family at the end of the day. It is truly a day of changing lives, not only for the children receiving the bedroom makeover, but for the volunteers as well.
Special Spaces holds a unique place in Mike and Dawn Bakker's hearts, the owners of Dutchman Heating and Cooling, Inc. Their son, Justin, was born with a hole in his heart and nearly passed away as an infant. At age three, he was diagnosed with hearing loss. Through his own experiences and that of family members, Justin has gained compassion and empathy for children going through traumatic life events. Kelsey, Justin’s younger sister, saw Justin’s struggle and has become active in Special Spaces as a freshman this year.
In 2016, Justin and three friends started a chapter of Special Spaces at Naperville Central High School. In just one year, the club grew to over 30 members, held two community events, coordinated several school fundraisers, and completed four makeovers. The makeover process begins by obtaining donations. Once they reach their goal of $4,000, they begin planning the child’s bedroom. After scheduling the makeover day with the family, the group paints, builds, creates, and does whatever it takes to complete the room in just one day.
Providing exceptional technical service goes hand in hand with exceptional customer service here at Dutchman Heating and Cooling. Through proven high standards, Dutchman is proud to be selected as an American Standard Customer Care Dealer. This program gives you the comfort in knowing you are dealing with a company which is committed to providing excellent customer service, better educated employees, and the capability to handle each customer’s specific needs and provide the best possible solution. We have not only committed to these standards but have been recognized as the leader. In 2010, we were selected as the Dealer of the Year. We obtained this recognition in the greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana area. A survey taken by our customers resulted in 100% referral ratings and 99% customer satisfaction scores. We obviously stand behind our work.
Right now, Naperville Central is fundraising for Tommy, age five, who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and put on a three-year treatment plan. Between his aggressive treatment and allergy to some of the chemotherapy, his battle is getting longer and more difficult. Since he is unable to play outside, he is sick and tired of spending time in the hospital and his old, boring bedroom. The Naperville Central chapter of Special Spaces is raising money as we speak to improve this young boy’s quality of life.
If Special Spaces resonates with your own heart, please donate using the button below, and Dutchman Heating and Cooling, Inc. will match your donation from $1.00 to $1,000. Every bit brings a renewed sense of joy and hope to a child and family in need, and changes a child’s life one bedroom at a time.
