2016 was a year of profound community connection, grassroots generosity, and major home transformation projects for Happy 2 be Home. From student-led fundraisers and corporate sponsorships to essential home modifications for local families, here is a look back at the defining moments of 2016.
📰 News & Organization Milestones
- Board & Leadership Growth: We welcomed new members to the Happy 2 be Home Board of Directors, strengthening our core leadership team to help guide our mission and expand community outreach.
- Student & Youth Inspiration:
- Charlotte Wendel shared the Happy 2 be Home story with her drama club classmates at Perkiomen Valley Middle School West. The cast voted to support H2bH with their spring production of Cinderella, presenting a generous $5,500 donation check during church services.
- Corporate & Community Support:
- Fox & Roach (Blue Bell): Hosted a presentation event on March 30th to award a donation check to Happy 2 be Home.
- Legacy Karate: Selected H2bH as their beneficiary for the Spring 2016 Chesmont Karate Championships, presenting a check for $1,500.
- WBYN Radio Sponsorship: Partnered with WBYN radio to sponsor weather reports and run 30-second promotional spots highlighting our mission and upcoming community events.
- Christ United Methodist Church: Susan Wendel presented the H2bH mission to the congregation in Lansdale.
🛠️ 2016 Home Modification Projects
Throughout 2016, we worked alongside generous supporters and contractors to bring safety and accessibility to families caring for children with chronic disabilities:
- Disaverio Family: Welcomed 12-year-old Gabriella (diagnosed with Rett’s Syndrome) and her family to H2bH. We completed a full 1st-floor handicap accessible bedroom and bathroom renovation to improve her daily care.
- Johnson Family: Received a generous anonymous donation on behalf of Elliott and Henry to fully fund their project. Plans were finalized and construction officially began on their accessible bedroom and bathroom conversion.
- Jones Family: Continued site assessments and contractor bidding process for Rohan’s safe, accessible bathroom remodel.
🥞 Community Events & Fundraising
- Coach Bingo: Hosted a sold-out event on April 2, 2016, at Keystone Fire Hall in Boyertown, featuring 18 games and chances to win Coach purses.
- Annual “If You Build It, They Will Run” 5K: Welcomed over 130 runners and walkers on a hot August morning behind New Hanover United Methodist Church. Congratulations to top male and female finishers, Bryton Henry and Amanda Murray!
- 6th Annual Classic Car & Bike Show: Held at New Hanover United Methodist Church on September 10th, featuring antique car rides, great music, and local community gathering.
- United Way Community Calendar: Continued our annual partnership with the United Way of Boyertown community calendar drive.
