We had the good fortune of connecting with Lexi Ford and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lexi, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
With the Sandy Foundation, we hope to impact the community by bringing integration of those living with a disability and those who are not. 28.7% of the United Stated population is living with some sort of disability. That is over a quarter of our population, yet commercial and communal spaces aren’t built to include and integrate ALL people. Yes, there is the compliance of ADA, which ends up being just a checklist for those to meet but our hope is that by designing our community and athletic spaces with accessibility at the forefront, it will change the way a lot of commercial spaces are designed and thought of. Far too often, we visit a restaurant, a gym, a shopping center, and don’t think twice about the impacts of the design and how it affects those who have a disability. We frequently are not met with a server or bartender who may have a disability. We frequently are not met with a grocer, bank teller, or sales representative who has a disability. We most definitely are not frequented with employees or participants of sports facilities to have a visible disability. This is primarily due to two factors: 1 the space is not designed to adequately tend to the needs of those with a disability and 2 those who are living with a disability tend to not feel welcome in public spaces. It is often an afterthought of design and structure to provide services, or even something as simple as a family bathroom. Our goals are to change all of that by genuinely designing a space for everyone.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am currently back in the start-up phase of business. I have started, walked away, and even closed several businesses. I must say, it is hard to start over, but often times it can lead to a more experienced point of view and a stronger dedication to success. I would not consider any of my previous endeavors as failures because they all were very successful both financially and impactfully. Life often has a plan that is untold and we are just along for the discovery. I am currently opening up a coffee and tap room in Venus, TX as a project to work with the city to help revitalize its history and downtown are back to a place for its citizens and those who may visit. We will be paying homage to the rich history of the area, while providing a safe and friendly environment. Upon the completion of this project, 1% of its profits will go toward the nonprofit foundation I have founded, The Sandy Foundation. The Sandy Foundation is a culmination of all my life’s experiences and work. We hope to build a community center that is focused on accessibility for all. We will have adaptive and nonadaptive recreational sports leagues, programs for sensory, enrichment, caretaker respite and senior citizens. We will offer a stage for local theater and music, walk up kitchens for local restaurants, and employment training and services for veterans, people with disabilities, and all others. This space will be inclusive of all abilities but it’s important for us to recognize the gaps in public spaces and fill those, so all can enjoy a true community. We hope that by exposure to those who are different, we may live integrated and thoughtful of the lives we encounter. Thru all my endeavors and efforts, one thing has stayed true, I design and build for others. My heart is fullest when I can fill the gaps of service and give hope to those who feel lost or unwanted. We live in a fast paced and instant gratification society. I hope with my businesses and organizations, we can slow down a bit, reconnect, and remember this life is fleeting. Appreciation for others and their differences, provides us with a rich understanding of ourselves on the deepest level. I know this as a fact and when I realized this, I wanted to provide that experience for others.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Hawkeye in Deep Ellum has got to be the best Asian street food I’ve ever had in my life. So that would be the top pick for me. Also S & D oyster bar, of course Katy Trail Icehouse, I enjoy unique, small businesses that offer a drink and dining experience that defines their culture and vision. I believe spaces where we can connect without a form of electronic entertainment (phones or TV’s) are my top choices. I think outdoor spaces are also on the list, such as Burger’s lake, Katy Trail, and Mockingbird Nature Preserve. I think it’s fun to visit the small towns outside of the DFW area to learn about their history, their culture, and how they came about. The most interesting things are found in the most obscure places. Lastly, I’d have to take them to Ennis to visit the Green Room, Boxcar in Dallas, and 1845 Speakeasy in Midlothian, among others.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My shoutout is most definitely my husband. He has stood by my side through all of my endeavors, often playing devil’s advocate to ensure I do not get stuck in a single point of view. He is my rock and confidant. He has challenged me and encouraged me to take the leap, trudge thru the downtimes, and celebrated me in our success. “I have found him, the one in which my soul loves.” I love you and thank you.

Website: https://www.thesandyfoundation.org

Image Credits
Alamy for the Silhouette in Bonnie’s but I own the license for it

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.