Foundation improves access and safety for differently abled
The Home Builders Foundation (HBF) is on a mission to build independence and elevate lives by expanding access, safety and comfort for differently abled people in their homes and communities.
HBF has completed more than 2,000 projects in the past 30 years. Last year, I was fortunate enough to visit one that left an indelible impression upon me.
“Our clients are very inspirational to me,” said Beth Forbes, executive director of HBF.
“One of HBF’s key goals is to provide clients with access to their community. We have clients who weren’t able to work who now have full-time jobs, others who share their talents and expertise as volunteers or ambassadors for the disabled community and many who have taken up parasports.”
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The HBF forms teams of builders around each project using skilled and unskilled volunteers to build and install home modifications. Monetary and in-kind donations are provided by donors and sponsors. HBF also has a community partnership program, hosts fundraising events, and works with builders to create an annual Inspiration House. (Shea Homes is the organization’s partner builder this year.) This allows HBF to pool resources and make a bigger impact on the community.
“We are so fortunate to have had the support of the home building community for the past 30 years,” Forbes says. “Some of the modification requests we receive can be daunting in terms of the complexity, scope or funding required, but once we share the request, someone always steps forward to help accomplish it.”
Some of HBF’s recent projects include:
Kyro had multiple neurological and physical delays, cerebral palsy and epilepsy as a result of shaken baby syndrome. As Kyro grew, his adoptive mom, Holly, became concerned about the safety of lifting him in and out of the bathtub. She learned about HBF from another family and applied for a bathroom renovation.
“The process was so quick and easy, and everyone involved was so kind,” Holly says. During the renovation, the bathtub was removed and a roll-in shower with grab bars was installed which makes him feel like a big boy now, according to his mom.
Ruth H. suffered complications due to West Nile Virus. HBF teamed with PorMor Construction and Accessible Systems to provide Ruth with accessible modifications. PorMor provided a sidewalk, and Accessible Systems installed an outdoor lift.
Calvin was diagnosed with ALS and was losing his ability to stand and walk. He had two flights of steps in his home and could no longer access most of the home. With the help of Accessible Systems, HBF was able to provide Calvin a lift. Calvin loves the independence the lift, which he refers to as his “Tesla” gives him. Calvin said having the lift is the difference between being able to stay in his home or moving to managed care.
The team here at Colorado Builder extends our gratitude to the team at the Home Builders Foundation, one of our vital community partners. Thank you for changing lives.
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