2017 was a year of expanded leadership, technical growth, and deep community generosity for Happy 2 be Home. From updating our brand identity to welcoming new families and building critical home adaptations, here is a look back at the major milestones and events that defined our year.
📰 News & Organization Milestones
- Board & Leadership Expansion: We officially welcomed four new members to the Board of Directors: Bob Clark, Sherry Thompson, Bob Robinson, and Carol Robinson.
- Logo Update in Honor of Julia Morath: In memory of Julia Morath, sister of Nathan (the second child helped by H2bH), the color of the children in the Happy 2 be Home logo was officially updated from green to purple.
- Modernized Technology & Outreach: Board member Bob Clark helped establish our email marketing system, for our quarterly newsletters and event updates.
- WBYN 52-Week Campaign: Expanded our radio presence on WBYN with a year-long campaign showcasing our mission and raising awareness for local families.
- Community & Business Giving:
- STA Bus Company: Donated $841 from their annual Mother’s Day Plant Sale.
- Pottstown Memorial Medical Center: Raised $670 through a employee casual day fundraiser.
- Drew Carney Realtor Campaign: Launched an ongoing campaign where Realtor Drew Carney donates $500 to H2bH for every home bought or sold.
- Fox & Roach (Blue Bell): Received generous corporate support from the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Blue Bell office.
🛠️ 2017 Home Modification Projects
Throughout 2017, we continued to transform living spaces so children with chronic disabilities can live safely and comfortably alongside their families:
- Garrett Family: Welcomed 7-year-old Garrett (diagnosed with Batten’s Disease) and provided a grant to help convert an existing dining room into a safe, accessible 1st-floor bedroom.
- Kelly Family: Welcomed 7-year-old Kelly (diagnosed with Mitochondrial disease) and initiated contractor bidding for a 1st-floor accessible bedroom and bathroom conversion.
- Ethan Schwartz (Follow-up Project): Initiated planning and bidding to install a ceiling lift system, assisting the family with transfers between Ethan’s bedroom, bathroom, and living areas.
- Nicki Purcell (Follow-up): Celebrated the completion and daily use of Nicki’s accessibility ramp, allowing her family to easily take her out for school, medical appointments, and sunshine.
- Gabriella Disaverio: Wrapped up final touches on Gabriella’s completed 1st-floor bedroom and handicap-accessible bathroom suite.
🥞 Community Events & Fundraising
- Annual “If You Build It, They Will Run” 5K: Held on August 12, 2017, with fantastic weather, welcoming over 150 runners and walkers and raising approximately $8,000.
- 7th Annual Classic Car & Bike Show: Gathered 165 display cars at New Hanover United Methodist Church on September 9th, raising over $4,000.
- Community Partnerships:
- Partnered with the United Way of Boyertown on their annual community calendar drive.
- Prepared for upcoming early 2018 events, including Designer Purse Bingo and the Boyertown Junior Woman’s Club “Girl’s Night Out at Bella Vista” basket raffle.
