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August 2026 - Demonstrating Love Through Service
- Aug 19
- 3 min read
Supporting Ms. Ellis Through Critical Home Repairs
Ms. Ellis is a 72-year-old low-income senior living with disabilities in a 1991 manufactured home that had been in need of significant repairs for many years. In the summer of 2025, Catalyst volunteers stepped in to replace her failing roof before it could cause severe water damage inside the home.
While that project addressed an urgent need, there was still much work to be done. This year's project focused on repairing damaged siding, building a new deck, and restoring the exterior of the home to help ensure it would remain safe and secure for years to come.
Tackling Years of Damage
One of the most challenging aspects of the project was addressing extensive siding deterioration, particularly on the south-facing side of the home where years of weather exposure had taken a toll.
A failed bump-out beneath a living room window had allowed water to penetrate the home's flooring system, causing ongoing damage that required careful attention. Volunteers worked diligently to identify the source of the intrusion and complete the necessary repairs to stop the water from entering the home.
In addition to resolving the leak, teams replaced sections of rotted siding and repaired a substantial amount of deteriorated trim throughout the property. Every repair represented another step toward protecting Ms. Ellis's home and preserving it for the future.
Building a Safer Way Home
The next phase of the project focused on replacing Ms. Ellis's aging deck.
Over time, the original structure had deteriorated to the point that it was unsafe, unstable, and no longer usable. For a homeowner living with disabilities, safe access to the home is especially important.
Volunteers constructed a brand-new deck that now provides a secure and welcoming entrance. More than just a structural improvement, the new deck restores peace of mind and creates a safe outdoor space that Ms. Ellis can enjoy for years to come.
Protecting the Home for the Future
Before painting began, volunteers carefully prepared the exterior by sealing and caulking vulnerable areas where water could potentially penetrate the home.
These important preventative measures help protect the repairs that were completed and reduce the risk of future damage. Once the preparation work was finished, the home received a refreshed exterior that dramatically improved both its appearance and resilience.
The transformation was remarkable, and Ms. Ellis was overjoyed by what had been accomplished in just three days.
Volunteers Who Never Gave Up
This project was made possible by an extraordinary group of volunteers who worked through difficult conditions to serve a neighbor in need.
Despite extreme summer heat and challenging air quality caused by regional wildfires, volunteers remained committed to the task at hand.
Their dedication, perseverance, and compassion made a lasting impact on both the home and the homeowner.
More Than Repairs, Relationships
While the physical transformation of the property was significant, the most meaningful outcome was the continued relationship built with Ms. Ellis and her sweet sister.
Projects like this remind us that home repairs are about far more than siding, paint, or decks. They are opportunities to care for people, listen to stories, and walk alongside neighbors facing challenges.
It was equally inspiring to watch relationships form among the volunteers themselves. Individuals from diverse backgrounds came together with one shared purpose: serving Ms. Ellis and helping her remain safely in the home she loves.
The Beauty of Community
The Ellis project stands as a beautiful example of what can happen when neighbors care for one another. Through generosity, teamwork, and compassion, a group of volunteers helped restore not only a home but also hope, safety, and encouragement.
When a community comes together to serve, lives are changed, relationships are strengthened, and everyone involved is reminded of the power of helping a neighbor in need. Truly beautiful.
Project Stats and Partners:
Volunteers: 85
Volunteer Hours: 377
Beaverton Christian Church – provided volunteer support and covered all hospitality costs of the project
Project photos
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