Daniel's Story

Daniel loves making people smile.
But when he was young, connecting with other people seemed impossible.

As a child with severe Autism, Daniel has experienced many challenges.

He couldn’t tell us what he needed.
He couldn’t make sense of the world around him.
And that confusion often came out in ways that were painful for him—and for us.

With each passing year, we wondered if we would ever break through.

But over time, we began to see a pattern.

With every new diagnosis, therapy, and surgery—God provided the right people at the right time.

Over the course of 10 years, teachers, therapists, and doctors—whom we came to call “Team Daniel”—helped him learn to communicate his needs and control his emotions.

Every time Daniel needed more, God provided more.

Today, Daniel’s spirit is filled with peace and joy.

Daniel no longer hurts himself or others.

Instead, he leaves a trail of smiles everywhere he goes.

At Walmart.
At Aldi.
At church.

With fist bumps, high-fives, handshakes, and hugs.

Now, with Smiles Start With Me, you’re invited to help spread that same kindness.

Daniel can’t make everyone smile on his own.

He needs your help.

Will you join Daniel?

Wear the shirt. Spread the smiles.

Because smiles start with you.

Saturday, April 11

National Smiles Start With Me Day!

Open a door. Make a meal. Pay for someone's coffee. Write a note. Give a compliment.

Wear your shirt, and make someone smile!

  • Pam Griffin

    "The smiles that Daniel inspires are the true picture of God's goodness and faithfulness. You have no idea how much joy it brings me to see Daniel's beautiful smile given freely to all around him. He gives me much hope!"

  • Donny Mayo

    "I love seeing how much Daniel enjoys life. Knowing that he and his family have worked so diligently and trusted the Lord so faithfully in order for him to enjoy life like he does sure makes me smile!"

  • Jason Pyron

    "Daniel brings a smile to my face every time I see him! His kind greeting and big smile makes my day!"

Smiles Are Spreading

Hundreds of shirts have already been sold across America. Will your state be next?

What's our Why?

We love helping Daniel learn new skills—whether it's folding shirts, vacuuming his room, or baking brownies.

Each new skill opens a door to something bigger: confidence, independence, and purpose.

Because of Daniel's severe Autism, the things many take for granted can take him months, or even years, to learn. This means we must be creative, patient, and intentional as we help him grow.

But this is about more than learning skills.

As Daniel approaches adulthood, we've realized something important:

There aren't many clear paths for children like him.

So, instead of waiting for options...We're building one.

When you buy a shirt, you're not just supporting a project.

You're building Daniel's future.

Shop the Shirt

Smiles start with you.

Daniel is making people smile every day. Now it's your turn.

Join Daniel—Get Your Shirt