

BUILDING DREAMS ONE NAIL AT A TIME
Sam's Vision: Builders for Tomorrow

Honoring Samuel:
"Every apparel and accessory purchased and donations made through the foundation website directly contributes to supporting grants for high school students and fulfilling the financial needs of existing tradespeople, empowering the next generation of skilled individuals and ensuring the well-being of those who keep our trades alive."
On July 11, 2023, Samuel embarked on a boating expedition from Oak Harbor to Put-in-Bay, Ohio, joined by his girlfriend McKenzie, as well as two friends. Samuel, who had recently rebuilt the boat engine, was eager to test it out. After a few hours on Put-in-Bay Island, they decided to head home. Tragically, at around 10:30 PM, the evening took a devastating turn as Samuel went overboard, leading to an extensive search effort involving the Coast Guard, National Guard, and numerous community members. For five agonizing days, the search persisted, drawing hopes and prayers from across the United States and Canada. With a saddened heart, on July 16, 2023, Samuel was found near Rattlesnake Island by a local boater, a painful realization that he had succumbed to the water. Samuel was kind-hearted, ambitious, and full of life, his vibrant spirit, zest for life, trying new things and dedication to his family left an enduring mark on all who knew him.
As a close-knit family gathers to provide support to McKenzie and her children as they navigate life without Samuel, the foundation was founded with a two-fold mission. It serves to empower the youth of tomorrow and Samuel's children, when they are old enough to grasp his legacy, it will provide a wonderful way to keep their father's spirit alive.
This foundation is dedicated to ensuring that Samuel Ickes Jr.'s legacy continues to shine brightly. Established in his name, it is a tribute to his indomitable spirit, devoted to preserving his passion and commitment. Samuel was passionate about the construction industry, a visionary who believed he could do anything. With his children as a guiding force, we are driven to serve and inspire the next generation of builders and tradespeople. Through mentorship, education, grants, and empowerment, we provide the tools and knowledge needed for them to embark on promising careers in these vital fields. Samuel's dream lives on as we construct pathways to success, just as he envisioned for himself. We are ensuring that the youth of tomorrow have the best possible start in these trades and continue to build the world with passion and skill.


The latest apparel and accessories

UNDER CONSTRUCTION
This section will detail our community partnerships and the companies we collaborate with to provide career opportunities.

The Mission for Sam's Vision:
Sam's Vision: Builders for Tomorrow is dedicated to honoring the memory of our beloved Samuel Ickes Jr., by inspiring and supporting today's youth as they embark on promising careers in the building trades, heavy equipment operation, contracting, and construction industries. Our mission is to provide unwavering mentorship, essential resources, and encouragement to empower young individuals to pursue their dreams with confidence and excellence. Through personalized guidance, grants to be awarded and community partnerships, we aim to nurture a new generation of skilled and passionate builders, ensuring they have the best possible start on their journey.


Sam's Vision Statement

How are we doing?
We are always HAPPY to hear from you! Additional contact info coming soon; thank you for your patience