July 2026 - The Power of Community in Action

A Home Filled with Memories

For the past 27 years, the Richardsons have called their Southwest Portland house home. Living on a fixed income and navigating the challenges of retirement and disabilities, they have worked hard to maintain the place where so many memories have been made. However, as the cost of living continues to rise, especially energy expenses, keeping up with the home's needs has become increasingly difficult.

Creating a More Comfortable and Affordable Home

This project began through a partnership with Community Energy Project (CEP), an organization dedicated to helping homeowners create safer, healthier, and more energy-efficient living spaces.

Over the past year, CEP completed several major upgrades to the Richardson home, including:

• Installing new insulation

• Upgrading ventilation systems

• Air sealing the home

• Replacing outdated heating equipment

• Installing a more efficient water heating system

These improvements have already made a significant difference, creating a more comfortable living environment while helping reduce monthly utility costs.

The Critical Need for a New Roof

While substantial progress had been made, one major challenge remained: the home's aging roof was nearing the end of its lifespan.

Recognizing the importance of protecting the energy-efficiency investments already made, CEP partnered with Catalyst and Peak Performance Roofing to address this critical need. Together, they ensured the Richardsons would receive a safe, reliable roof that would safeguard their home for years to come.

Three Days of Service and Transformation

Over the course of three days, volunteers and project partners worked tirelessly to complete the roof replacement. Their efforts included:

• Removing two layers of worn roofing materials

• Replacing damaged plywood sheathing

• Installing newly painted barge rafters

• Completing the installation of a brand-new roof

The new roof not only provides lasting protection for the home but also helps preserve all of the energy-efficiency improvements completed inside.

Going Above and Beyond

The impact of the project extended far beyond the roof.

Thanks to an incredible turnout of volunteers, several additional repairs and improvements were completed throughout the property:

• Repairing the structural issues with a sagging front porch.

• Replacing damaged siding on the chimney.

• Removing years of accumulated debris from the backyard.

• Landscaping and cleaning the backyard to improve the property's safety and appearance.

  
  

The Power of Neighbors Helping Neighbors

One of the most inspiring aspects of this project was witnessing the generosity of the community. Volunteers showed up with no expectation of receiving anything in return. They simply wanted to help neighbors facing challenges and offer their time, talents, and compassion.

These remarkable contributions demonstrate what is possible when a community comes together with kindness, generosity, and a shared commitment to caring for one another.

A Lasting Impact

The Richardsons now have a safer, more secure, and more comfortable home. More importantly, they have experienced firsthand the power of a community that rallies around its neighbors in times of need.

This project is a beautiful example of what happens when people come together to make a lasting difference, proving that even small acts of service can transform lives.

Stay Connected with Community Energy Project

The incredible work showcased through the Richardson project is just one example of the impact Community Energy Project is making throughout the Portland area.

Please consider signing up for CEP's newsletter using the link below to stay informed about their ongoing efforts. Their stories and updates highlight the meaningful difference they continue to make in the lives of local families and communities every day.  CEP Newsletter

Project Stats and Partners:

Volunteers: 75

Volunteer Hours: 341

Community Energy Project – funded the project and supplied volunteer support

Peak Performance Roofing – provided leadership and construction expertise to volunteers

Project photos