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You can make a difference with volunteering - phase 2

By
Home Stager with Interior Aura

Last week I blogged about phase 1 here of a recent volunteer project and I promisted you an update on phase 2 of the H.O.M.E. Youth Resource Center... so here it is.

The following weekend, January 31st, three members of Mid Valley Professional Stagers (MVPS), along with the generosity of one community member and three men from the National Guard, we tackled the removal of carpet and the pad throughout the main and upper level of the resource center. Two local contractors also contributed services by relocating the washer, dryer and 2 refrigerators as well as installing a wonderful storage solution for the teen's backpacks.

With hammers, pry bars, gloves and masks... we were ready. Over the years, a different carpet had been added to each room, giving it an eclectic mix. Much of the carpet pad was so old that it just fell apart. Based on the large volume of traffic and condition of the carpet, it appeared to be 15+ years old. We were thrilled to find hardwood flooring underneath that was in pretty good condition.

The following week, donations for area rugs, 2 new sofas and miscellaneous items were received to help provide warmth in the transformed spaces.

Above is a group photo of the carpet removal team and below are a few action shots from everyone hard at work. As you can see, the men handled the majority of the "muscle" part and us women were the staple removers and clean up crew.  We were tired (well exhausted, really) and dirty... but another day that resulted in a HUGE difference for the H.O.M.E. Youth Resource Center and the at-risk teens it services!

   

 


Article submitted by Lisa Sherman with Interior Aura. Copyright 2009.

Omega Omega
Omega - Glendale, CA

Lisa - great stuff!!!!! Always enjoy reading where people truly "give" of their time.

Keep it up!!!

Cheers

Mar 08, 2009 09:30 AM
Lisa Sherman
Interior Aura - Salem, OR
Home Stager, Interior, Redesign & Decorating - Salem Oregon

Thank you for the kind words, it's been a rewarding experience!

Mar 08, 2009 10:12 AM
Sheila Kennedy
J29 Project - Rochester, NY

What an awesome project Lisa!  I am so glad you posted pictures too!  How long did this take you to plan?  I have a similar project that I am starting now to complete in September.  I hope I am giving myself enough time.  I love your cause - those kids will remember what you did for them forever!  What a blessing you are in your community!  Great job! 

Mar 08, 2009 02:04 PM
Lisa Sherman
Interior Aura - Salem, OR
Home Stager, Interior, Redesign & Decorating - Salem Oregon

Sheila - Hmmm, I think the planning started this past winter, maybe November or so.  The facility is run by the city/county and they don't have funds, resources or the time to take care of these things.  They spend most of their time and energy working and feeding the kids - the number they are servicing has doubled in the past year. It took many meetings with the program director to discuss goals, etc. and focus on the necessities.  By planning the project in phases, it has been helpful to accomplishes the pieces and get volunteers.  It would be a year-long project if we were to try and accomplish all of their needs. Baby steps... and any changes we made were a huge improvement!  Thank you, your support is appreciated! Good luck with your project and please share!!

Mar 08, 2009 03:31 PM
Zac Hill
Resident Lending Group, Salem, OR - Salem, OR

Great to read the 2nd installment.  Thanks again for your hard work.

Mar 09, 2009 04:30 AM
Lisa Sherman
Interior Aura - Salem, OR
Home Stager, Interior, Redesign & Decorating - Salem Oregon

Zac - Thanks for stopping back by to follow up on phase 2... it was hard work and we were all exhausted, but it was worth it.

Mar 09, 2009 12:05 PM
Liz Harrison
Spruce It Up! Oregon's Real Estate Stager - Salem, OR
ASP, Home Staging Consultant

This project has been a great opportunity to work together for a common good. I'm looking forward to the final phase and a springtime reveal.

Mar 24, 2009 08:39 AM
Lisa Sherman
Interior Aura - Salem, OR
Home Stager, Interior, Redesign & Decorating - Salem Oregon

Liz - yes... love pooling all of our resources and working together as a team.  That's what keeps it fun and exciting while contributing to help the kids and the shelter! 

Mar 29, 2009 08:35 AM