06/12/2026
This feature Friday, we're proud to recognize Mandie Englert, a Head Start teacher whose dedication to serving others extends far beyond the walls of Warren Forest EOC.
Mandie's commitment to her community can be seen through the many roles she fills outside of work. She serves as President of the Dragon Nation Football Boosters, Secretary of the Warren Wrestling Boosters, and is a board member of the White Cane Foundation. In addition to her leadership roles, she is the founder and creator of HEROES, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and their families through sensory-friendly events, activities, and opportunities for connection.
While these accomplishments are impressive, the heart of Mandie's story begins with her family.
HEROES was inspired by her son, Nolan.
Like many parents, Mandie wanted her child to have the opportunity to participate, belong, and experience the same joy and connection that every child deserves. Through her experiences as Nolan's mom, she recognized that many families were searching for inclusive opportunities where individuals with disabilities could feel welcomed, supported, and celebrated.
She remembers the frustration, uncertainty, and isolation that can come when families struggle to find activities, resources, and support within their community. Mandie knew she didn't want other families to experience those same feelings while trying to create meaningful opportunities for their children.
Rather than accepting those limitations, she decided to create something better.
What started as a mother's desire to create opportunities for her son has grown into an organization that impacts countless families throughout our community. Through HEROES, Mandie has helped create sensory-friendly events and experiences that allow children and families to participate, connect, and build lasting memories together.
When asked what the most rewarding part of her work has been, Mandie shared that it is seeing the smiles on children's faces as they participate and hearing the appreciation from parents who are grateful for opportunities that allow their children to simply be kids.
Balancing family, community leadership, nonprofit work, and a career serving children and families through Head Start is no small task. Yet Mandie continues to do so with passion, determination, and the support of her family.
Her story is a reminder that some of the greatest community impact begins with love, advocacy, and a parent who refuses to stop searching for ways to make life better for their child.
Thank you, Mandie, for the compassion, leadership, and service you bring to our community every day. Your work continues to create opportunities, build connections, and inspire others far beyond these agency walls.
Mandie and raising my Heros will be hosting a Sensory Swim on July 18th from 6:00 PM to 7:45 PM at the Warren Community Pool. This sensory-friendly event is designed to provide a welcoming and inclusive experience for individuals with disabilities and their families.
