Remodeling For Independence Together (ReFIT) is a non-profit, volunteer organization providing home modification services for physically and financially challenged homeowners who wish to remain living independently in their homes. Started by a small group of volunteers including Bill Markt of Markt and Company Construction, the group wanted to help those with physical or age related barriers.

Original entry from the garage was not wheelchair compatible for homeowner Samir Taha.

Finished ramp providing the much need wheelchair access for Taha.

Afifa Taha preforms a test run on the newly built ramp provided by ReFIT and the students of Portland Community College.

All photos courtesy of Warren J. Edondson

Since 1997, ReFIT, formerly known as the Remodelers Foundation, has helped families in Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties stay in their homes. With projects ranging from installing grab bars or adding a wheelchair ramp to remodeling a kitchen, ReFIT has helped many families stay in their home when their only other alternative would have been to move to an assisted living or an adult foster care facility.

Aging in Place
Based on the 2000 United States Census, the International Center for Disability Information reports that 19% of the population between the ages of 16 to 64, and 42% of those 65 and over, have a physical disability that limits activities of daily living. The number of baby boomers is increasing from 35 million in 2000 to 55 million in 2020.  An majority of seniors — 90%  — want to stay in their homes as long as possible (often referred to as Aging in Place). Modifying a home will make a safer environment.  For those not able to afford those changes, ReFIT is there to help.

Case Study
Samir Taha was 58 when he had a massive stroke last year. He had just opened a restaurant eight months prior to his stroke and after the stroke was forced to close the restaurant. He is completely paralyzed on his left side and is bedridden. His wife, Afifa, left her job to care for him at home after he’d developed two infections from two separate nursing homes. Now she cares for him 24 hours a day in a hospital bed in their dining room. Samir Taha visits the hospital three times a week for therapy and needed a ramp outside his home for his wheelchair. The hospital recommended they contact ReFIT, and today they have that ramp. Working with ReFIT “has been a good experience,” says Afifa Taha. “They installed a ramp which we needed very much.”

All About Volunteers and Donations
Like any non-profit organization, ReFIT relies on donations and volunteers to get the job done. With each project the challenge of finding donations starts all over again. In November of 2008, ReFIT partnered with the Building Construction Technology group at Portland Community College to work on Samir Taha’s project. The group not only designed the ramp but also provided the labor of installing it with the supervision of Jeff Jones of Olson and Jones Construction, Inc. These projects not only give the students hands-on experience, but also give them exposure to possible future employers. “Working with the ReFIT group was a rewarding experience and one I would recommend to any student program,” states student team member Sherry Pollard. “They welcomed each student’s participation and provided support during all phases of the project.”

ReFIT’s services expand beyond just updating the home to fit the homeowner’s needs. They also give support and referrals to other services outside their expertise. To receive ReFIT’s services, there are a few minimum qualifications listed on their website, to help determine eligibility. If you’re eligible, complete the online application and return to ReFIT and the board will review it and will contact you. If you have donations of products or cash, or want to volunteer your time, please contact ReFIT at www.refitportland.org or call 503-698-8382. Every little bit helps.

From a Volunteer’s Perspective

We asked Sherry Pollard, a student at Portland Community College, a few questions, about her involvement with ReFit.

NWR: How did ReFIT connect with you?

Pollard: Spencer Hinkle [Portland Community College Building Construction Technology co-chair] has worked with ReFIT on previous projects with other students. Working with ReFIT is viewed as a great opportunity for the students to get a sample of real-world experience.

NWR: Will the Building Construction Technology (BCT) Department at Portland Community College continue this type of work?

Pollard: This was a wonderful experience that allowed many students to shine in their own abilities and skills they have recently acquired, and provide a greatly needed service back to the community. I think PCC will continue to be involved with the ReFIT group as time and the size of the project permits.

NWR: What was your experience working with ReFIT?

Pollard: The communication process was just as much of a learning process for us as the organizing of the volunteer team members, analyzing the design, and building the ramp. We definitely view the communication process as a positive part of our experience.
Working with the ReFIT group was a rewarding experience and one I would recommend to any student program. They welcomed each student’s participation and provided support during all phases of the project.

NWR: Will you get school credit for this work?

Pollard: ASPCC Rock Creek [PCC’s student government] allows student clubs to receive up to $250 per term for 30 hours of approved community service. In the Building Construction Technology Program we have two student groups, the Student Chapter of the National Kitchen and Bath Association and the Student Chapter of the Associated General Contractors. Money raised through these clubs provides funding for other volunteer projects that students are involved in on an ongoing basis. The opportunity to work directly with professionals in the industry is also a huge bonus.

Liz Maitral, CAPS, is co-owner of Maitral Construction LLC, a construction consulting firm, and is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS). Maitral can be contacted at 503-222-9705, for more information visit www.maitralconstructionllc.com.