Thank you for Supporting the Renovation with Wish List Purchases!
Brian and Raymond have been housemates for years, and when Khalil joined them in 2020, he quickly injected some fresh energy into the home. “I love playing football, basketball, and just getting everyone together for fun,” said Khalil. “I didn’t have it easy growing up, and I was so happy when my foster mom helped me get into Jubilee.” (Watch Khalil’s story!)
“The guys have strong relationships with each other and with their Jubilee support team,” shared Jubilee Program Manager Aviva Bensimon. “Their home was starting to show its age. Large-scale renovations in a home where people live are challenging. A regular routine is important to their wellbeing.”
Despite the challenges, Jubilee knew a whole house renovation was desperately needed. The home has been in constant use since Jubilee purchased it about 20 years ago. Beyond cosmetic changes, the house needed updates that would make it easier for people with disabilities to live comfortably and age in place with staff support.
Kathy Ford is the Operations Manager at Jubilee and she’s been closely involved with the renovation project. “Every room in the house has been touched by the renovation. For example, we widened doorways and hallways to make it easier for someone who needs help walking to be aided by a second person, or if a wheelchair is needed. Walls were taken down to make an open concept, which will increase sightlines for support staff. The primary bathroom can now fit a walker or chair in the shower as needed.”
“This is Brian, Raymond, and Khalil’s home, and it’s important they have a say in the renovation,” added Kathy. “For example, Khalil’s room is now painted in the colors of his favorite football team, the NY Giants. Khalil helped Brian, who can’t see well, pick out a cheerful yellow color for his room.”
Thank you to Montgomery County Senior Planning Specialist Cynthia Butler from the Department of Housing and Community Affairs for facilitating county assistance for this renovation. Generous donors and volunteers are pitching in to help with finishing touches. Thank you to everyone who purchased household items for Brian, Raymond, and Khalil’s home! Thanks to your generosity, we have now closed the wish list.