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How We Got Started

Justus Venturing was founded by Daniel Cashman, just a regular guy with a desire to provide new and exciting experiences for persons with varying disabilities. Daniel has worked in the human service field since 1993, providing respite care services, developing and providing training for group homes across the state, and creating new opportunities for recreation.

In the fall of 1998, Daniel opened the doors of a group home facility called The Harbor, which is currently operating in the Twin Cities. He spent the preceding summer developing and operating adventure programs for children and adults with developmental disability and other challenges. This culminated in the first No Boundaries, Boundary Waters camping adventure. Now, ten years later, the venture continues. 

We're now a non-profit organization called Justus Venturing, which will allow us to serve a greater number of campers who want to attend our events, but simply can't afford them. Through fund-raising, grants, and private donations, our goal is to reach a larger audience.  If you would like to help in any of these efforts, check out our contibutions page and make an on-line donation today.  All proceeds go directly to our campers and we thank you in advance for your kindness.  

How We Got Our Name

Justus was a venture created by Daniel's grandmother, Marie, about 30 years ago in a quiet suburb of St. Louis, Missouri. Marie was a talented seamstress who owned and operated a school, teaching fashion design and creation. At the same time, Marie and a close friend started a not-for-profit agency providing local nursing home residents with hand sewn clothes that she designed. Since the business was being run solely by Marie and her friend, they uttered the question, "Since it's 'just us,' what should we call ourselves?" Thus, Justus was born, and in honor of his grandmother, Daniel humbly took the name. Marie continued Justus into her late eighties, until her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. She dedicated the rest of her days to him. Marie took her final great venture in the fall of 2004. She will be missed but now, always remembered.

"What really pleases us is the expressions on the people's faces when we give them their presents."

Marie Schottler
In response to a nomination for a nationally recognized, Jefferson Award. An award given to citizens who do significant good for others, but without recognition.