2018 was a powerful year of steady progress, new family partnerships, and essential accessibility transformations for Happy 2 be Home. From installing specialized ceiling lift systems to expanding safe home living spaces across our community, here is a look back at the major milestones and events that defined our year.
📰 News & Organization Milestones
- Board Elections & Leadership Continuity: In accordance with organization bylaws, the board held leadership elections during the July board meeting. Scott Hamrick was re-elected as President, and Susan Wendel was re-elected as Vice-President to continue guiding our mission.
- Expanding Family Outreach: Welcomed several new children and families to the Happy 2 be Home network throughout the year, including Orianys, Penelope, Rubi, and Elena.
- Digital Outreach & Email Newsletter: Continued utilizing our text-to-join email updates (HAPPY2BEHOME to 22828) to keep supporters informed on quarterly news, project updates, and upcoming events.
🛠️ 2018 Home Modification Projects
Throughout 2018, we worked directly with families, volunteers, and local contractors to solve complex accessibility challenges:
- Garrett Family: Completed the dining-room-to-bedroom conversion, celebrating with a family open house in January to thank the volunteers and community members who made it possible.
- Ethan Schwartz: Installed a ceiling lift system in Ethan’s home, allowing his family to safely transfer him between his bedroom, bathroom, wheel chair, and living room therapeutic swing.
- Jake & Ryan: Approved and completed the installation of a ceiling lift system to improve daily care and ease of movement.
- Orianys Family: Partnered with community volunteers and state programs to assist with heating repairs, new ramp construction, and funding materials for ongoing bedroom and bathroom additions.
- Gabriella Disaverio: Initiated bidding for new smooth laminate flooring to help Gabriella navigate her home independently with ease.
- Penelope, Rubi, & Elena: Approved ramp plans for Penelope, and initiated room conversion and accessibility plans for Rubi and Elena.
- Kelly Family Support: Continued working with Kelly’s family to navigate local building regulations, exploring alternative accessible housing options alongside a dedicated project fundraiser.
🥞 Community Events & Fundraising
- Designer Purse Bingo: Hosted a successful event on January 20th, raising over $2,500 to fund upcoming home modifications.
- Annual “If You Build It, They Will Run” 5K: Welcomed over 120 runners and walkers on August 11, 2018, raising approximately $10,000 for H2bH families.
- Annual Classic Car Show: Gathered community members and car enthusiasts on September 8th for a well-attended event supporting our mission.
- Community Collaborations: Partnered with the Boyertown Junior Woman’s Club for their “Girl’s Night Out at Bella Vista” basket raffle fundraiser.
