This year was WorkFest’s 20th Anniversary.  In 1992, the first WorkFest welcomed more than 100 volunteers to build and repair homes here in the heart of Appalachia.  Being such a great success, eventually more weeks were added and WorkFest expanded to two sites. Today, CAP welcomes more than 400 students each March, serving about 20 families each year. This year, we welcomed students from 36 colleges and universities who gave their spring break in service to others.  Thanks to the support you provided, we were able to gather supplies such as hammers, nails, lumber, drywall, windows, doors, and flooring.  The high price of building materials make it challenging for many living in poverty to have the means to purchase the materials needed to repair their homes.  For others, even if they had the ability to purchase the items, their health prevents them from taking on such construction projects.  As a result, homes are often unintentionally neglected and become hazardous in which to live.  But, because of your generosity to WorkFest, this year 22 seniors and families in difficult situations received the help and repairs they desperately needed.

One participant who received home repairs was Jerry Arnold.  Jerry, 77, is well known in the county where he drove a truck delivering mail to the local post offices.  “He’s such a sweet man,” says Robyn Renner, CAP Housing Manager.  In recent years, he’s dealt with one challenge after another.  His wife passed away and he was diagnosed with cancer.  Through all his troubles, his spirit is still bright and his attitude is still positive.  He worked until he found out he had cancer.  Then, his whole focus was on surviving.  The news was devastating, but he wouldn’t let cancer win.  After a difficult battle, he proved victorious.

Now in his spare time he helps take care of his nephew who has had a stroke and visits his sister in the local nursing home.  Though Jerry’s arthritis is painful and makes it difficult to get around, he is dedicated to those in his family.  His home hadn’t received needed repairs in years and we couldn’t help but serve a man who is so dedicated and loving to others.  Jerry’s house had windows replaced and a ramp built to make it easier for him to enter his home.  Due to his arthritis Jerry needed his bathtub removed and a shower put in so he could more safely bathe.  It meant so much to him to have us come and be of service.  He was very grateful to the students for their hard work, and we are so grateful to you for your gifts to help people like Jerry.  Through your support, you are truly changing lives.