Meet Kareem
This past summer, we were absolutely thrilled to welcome Kareem Bayoumy into the Happy 2 be Home family. Kareem is a vibrant 14-year-old from Lansdale who brings an incredible amount of joy to everyone he meets.
Like many teenagers, Kareem has a big personality and a lot of energy, but he also faces a unique combination of daily challenges. Kareem lives with Down Syndrome, high-functioning autism, and ADHD. One of the biggest safety concerns for his family is his tendency toward elopement—meaning he will occasionally wander away without supervision. For his mother, Maryanne, keeping a constant eye on an energetic teenager outdoors was an exhausting and stressful daily hurdle.
The Project: Turning a Backyard into a Safe Haven
Maryanne knew exactly what would make a world of difference for Kareem’s safety and independence: a secure fence for their backyard. With a proper perimeter, Kareem could finally enjoy the fresh air, and his family could breathe a sigh of relief.
After reviewing several bids for the project, the Happy 2 be Home Board officially approved an $8,000 grant to build the safety fence. Thanks to our incredible community of donors, we were able to fully fund the project and get it completed quickly.
In Their Own Words: “Freedom!”
When the fence was officially finished, Maryanne called us to share the good news, and her emotional reaction reminded us exactly why we do what we do.
“Freedom! Kareem finally has the freedom to go outside in our backyard and I don’t have to worry,” she shared.
At Happy 2 be Home, we frequently focus our grants on modifying home interiors—like bathrooms and bedrooms—to make them accessible. But Kareem’s project is a beautiful reminder that sometimes accessibility means unlocking the great outdoors. This fence gives Kareem a secure space to safely play, exercise, and just be a kid.
A Local Celebrity & Phillies Fan
When he isn’t hanging out in his newly secured yard, Kareem is a massive fan of the Philadelphia Phillies. He also happens to be a fantastic leader in our own community!
Kareem was a special guest judge at our 2024 H2bH Car and Bike Show. You can see just how seriously—and joyfully—he took his judging duties. For Happy 2 be Home, our relationship with families doesn’t end when a construction project finishes; we love that Kareem is an active, smiling fixture at our community events.
Helping More Kids Feel at Home
Kareem’s new fence is a direct result of the generosity of people like you. Every dollar donated to Happy 2 be Home goes right toward giving children with specialized needs the safety, comfort, and freedom they deserve.
Thank you to everyone who supported this project and helped give Kareem his own piece of the great outdoors!
