The "I Love Us" Project
The I Love Us Project is a tribute to Tanner's belief in the power of kindness. It seeks to honor his memory by continuing the work he started of spreading love and compassion to the disabled or disadvantaged.
Because of Tanner’s love for LEGO and the special needs community, the I Love Us Project has made it our mission to supply LEGO sets to programs across the United States servicing those with intellectual disabilities and autism. Building with LEGO has proven to be a beneficial and therapeutic activity for mentally disabled individuals, and helps brings so much fun and enjoyment to their lives!
As of September 2023, the I Love Us Project has donated over $6,000 worth of LEGO products to programs throughout Utah and Nevada. With your help, we look forward to increasing our reach and spreading Tanner's love and kindness across the U.S!!
Incorporating LEGO building into therapy sessions, educational programs, or recreational activities tailored to the specific needs and abilities of mentally disabled individuals can harness these benefits and contribute to their overall development and well-being. Building with LEGO has the following benefits along with many more:
Fine Motor Skills Development: Assembling LEGO pieces requires precise handling and manipulation of the small bricks, aiding in the development and improvement of fine motor skills. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with conditions such as autism or cerebral palsy.
Cognitive Skills Enhancement: LEGO building can stimulate cognitive processes such as problem-solving, critical thinking, planning, and spatial awareness. These activities can be structured to varying levels of complexity, allowing individuals to engage and challenge their cognitive abilities.
Creativity and Imagination: LEGO sets provide a platform for creative expression and imaginative play. Individuals can design and build their creations, fostering creativity and encouraging them to think outside the box.
Sensory Stimulation: The various textures, shapes, and colors of LEGO bricks provide sensory stimulation. This can be particularly valuable for individuals with sensory processing disorders, helping them adapt to different sensory experiences.
Focus and Attention: Engaging with LEGO projects requires concentration and focus, which can aid in improving attention spans, a significant benefit for individuals with attention-related challenges.
Communication and Social Skills: Building LEGO sets in a group setting can promote social interaction and communication. It encourages individuals to work together, share ideas, and collaborate, improving their social skills.
Sense of Achievement and Confidence: Completing a LEGO project provides a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-esteem and confidence. This can be especially meaningful for mentally disabled individuals, as it showcases their abilities and talents.
Therapeutic Outlet: LEGO building can serve as a therapeutic outlet, providing a way for individuals to relax, reduce stress, and manage anxiety. It can be a calming and enjoyable activity that helps in emotional regulation.
Structured Activity: The structured nature of LEGO building provides a clear set of instructions and steps, offering a sense of order and routine, which can be comforting for individuals who thrive on structure.
Inclusive and Accessible: LEGO sets come in a wide range of themes and difficulty levels, making them accessible to individuals with various abilities and interests. The adaptability of LEGO building ensures that everyone can participate and enjoy the activity at their own pace.
I Love Us in Action
"The Light Project"
As part of Tanner’s dream, the "I Love Us Project" has chosen to partner with "The Light Project"
Tanner had a very tender heart and always had a dream of being able to help the less fortunate and took many opportunities to do just that! He often spoke of someday traveling and having the means to give where ever he saw a need along his path. As part of Tanner’s dream, the I Love Us Project has chosen to partner with The Light Project through ReigniteGlobal.org.
The Light Project is a Sponsorship Program for the most vulnerable children living at "Light Home of Hope" or attending primary school at Light School in Kenya, Africa. The program supports families living in poverty, specifically children that have been orphaned, abused, neglected or abandoned. Child Sponsorship allows for the children to continue their education, while also being provided with medical care, uniforms & clothing, and nutritional meals three times a day.
Throughout the year, The Light Project strives to provide mosquito nets, backpacks, sports gear and equipment, and other necessities to the students of Light School.
On September 1, 2023, the I Love Us Project sponsored their first child with The Light Project and looks forward to sponsoring many more!