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October 2026 - More Than a Fence: A Season of Care and Connection
Oct 21
2 min read
A Safer Home for the Wilson Family
For 20 years, the Wilson family has called their Sherwood house home. As they’ve faced the challenges of aging and ongoing medical concerns, keeping up with repairs has become harder. When their failing fence began to affect their sense of safety, they reached out to Catalyst.
We saw an opportunity to make a meaningful difference. The fence was more than a repair waiting to happen—it was a source of real concern for the family. We were grateful to come alongside them.
Over two days, our volunteers removed the old fence and built a new one along three sides of the property, installing sturdy posts, rails, and boards. The finished fence gives the Wilsons greater security and, we hope, more peace of mind.
Making Time for One Another
The new fence mattered. So did the conversations that happened while it was being built.
Ron, the homeowner, spent time visiting with volunteers from his deck. Again and again, people paused their work to sit with him and share a conversation. Every volunteer made room for connection.
That’s the heart of Catalyst. We’re here to repair homes, but we’re also here to build relationships, love our neighbors, and remind people they matter. A project’s success isn’t measured only in what we build—it’s also found in the care we share along the way.
The connections reached beyond the Wilsons, too. We met several neighbors during the project, including one who spent more than an hour talking with our volunteers about all kinds of things. We love when these conversations happen. Trust can begin with a simple conversation; friendships can grow, and new opportunities to serve can follow. We may even have found a few possibilities for next year.
A Community Effort
In all, 26 volunteer shifts added up to 106 hours of service for the Wilson family and their community. We’re deeply grateful to everyone who showed up, picked up a tool, shared a conversation, and gave their time and care.
Closing a Historic Season
The project also brought Catalyst’s 2026 season to a close—a bittersweet moment after the busiest project season in our 20-year history. We’ve repaired homes, served families, and been met with extraordinary generosity from volunteers and partners.
Still, what we’ll remember most isn’t simply the number of projects completed. It’s the people: our clients, volunteers, church and community partners, neighbors, and everyone we’ve had the privilege of meeting along the way. You made this year special.
As we close out 2026, the Wilson family’s fence reminds us what Catalyst has always been about: coming alongside our neighbors, building meaningful relationships, and showing love through our actions.
Thank you to every volunteer, partner, and supporter who made this season possible. Together, you’ve helped make homes safer, strengthen relationships, and remind our neighbors they aren’t alone. We’re grateful for every opportunity to serve, and we look forward to what God has in store for the year ahead.
Project Stats and Partners:
Volunteers: 26
Volunteer Hours: 106
Project photos
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