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August 2026 - From Leaks to Lasting Security
3 days ago
3 min read
Supporting a Young Family When They Needed It Most
For the past four years, the Atkins family has called their 1991 home in Sherwood their own. As a young family raising three children, ages 8, 5, and an infant, they work hard every day to create a loving and stable home. While the father works tirelessly to provide for his family, the cost of replacing their failing roof was simply more than they could manage.
Over the years, the roof had steadily deteriorated, leading to multiple leaks throughout the house. The damage continued to worsen, leaving the family concerned about the safety and condition of their home. When Catalyst learned about their situation, we knew we had an opportunity to help.
Restoring More Than Just a Roof
Over the course of three days, an incredible team of volunteers came together to give the Atkins family a fresh start. The old roof was completely removed, and nearly 60% of the plywood sheathing had to be replaced due to extensive damage. Volunteers also reinforced several broken roof trusses to improve the home's structural integrity.
As work progressed, another serious issue came to light. The roof had no proper intake or exhaust ventilation, which had contributed to moisture buildup and significant wood rot throughout the roof system.
To correct the problem, new eyebrow vents were installed to provide fresh air intake, while ridge vents were added to allow proper exhaust ventilation. Two skylights were also carefully reinstalled with new flashing to ensure they would remain watertight for years to come.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors
One of the most meaningful moments of the project happened next door.
As volunteers worked on the Atkins home, a neighbor approached and shared that his own roof was leaking. While we were not able to replace his roof at this time, we encouraged him to apply for assistance during our next roofing program. But we also knew his family needed immediate help.
Rather than walking away, our team installed tarps on the leaking areas of his roof to prevent further water damage inside the home. The family was deeply grateful, and what began as a simple conversation became the start of a new relationship. We look forward to staying connected and finding more ways to serve them in the future.
The Power of Volunteers
This project was made possible by an extraordinary group of volunteers who generously gave their time, energy, and skills.
During the three-day project, 85 volunteer shifts were filled, contributing a total of 394 volunteer hours. Their dedication was nothing short of inspiring. A special thank you goes to the volunteers who served on Saturday afternoon and stayed several hours beyond their scheduled shift to help ensure the project was completed.
Their willingness to go the extra mile made all the difference for the Atkins family.
More Than a Roof
While we are grateful to have provided the Atkins family with a safe, secure, and healthy roof over their heads, this project was about far more than construction.
It was about standing alongside a young family during a difficult season. It was about neighbors caring for neighbors. It was about bringing people together to create lasting change and meaningful connections.
For the Atkins family, it means peace of mind every time it rains. For Catalyst, it is a reminder of why we do what we do: serving families, strengthening communities, and building relationships that last long after the work is finished.
That is what Catalyst is all about.
Project Stats and Partners:
Volunteers - 85
Volunteer Hours - 394
Malarkey Roofing Products – donating roofing materials
A Jesus Church - providing volunteer support
Calvary Chapel – providing volunteer support
The Coffee Equation – donated fresh brewed coffee for the project
Project photos
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