State of Repairs Blog

Volunteers, Clients Reap Benefits from Repair Affair

Posted on May 17, 2013 by pwcstaff

Last Saturday, a group of 700 PWC volunteers rolled up their sleeves for the 31^st annual Repair Affair. It was a busy and successful day with 70 repair jobs completed in a just a few hours thanks to PWC staffers and volunteer crews.

We heard from clients who so greatly appreciated the help and caught up with some familiar faces of PWC volunteers who have joined us year after year!

Charlie Thrasher, whose first Repair Affair was in 1994, was joined by his wife Robyn and his niece Emily Williams, for a repair job in Price Hill. Charlie started volunteering with PWC during his days with the Cincinnati Bell Pioneers and continues rolling up his sleeves to help out, year after year. His friends Ruby Lewis-Bean, John Lewis and Roger Schwartz rounded out the volunteer crew that painted a back porch and installed a much needed handrail for a homeowner.

“You don’t have to be extraordinary to make a difference,” Charlie said.

Meanwhile, up in Westwood, Keenan Beauchamp celebrated his 10^th year volunteering with the Church of the Redeemer from Hyde Park. Keenan and his team built a new ramp for a resident facing mobility disabilities. Repair Affair is one of Keenan’s favorite PWC events. Its impact on the community keeps him coming back year after year.

“When I recall my years with Repair Affair, I remember the smiles, the thanks, the hugs and the great cause at the heart of it all,” Keenan said. “It’s taking care of our community, and it gives those of us who are capable and blessed the opportunity to give back to those in need.”

For more Repair Affair highlights, check out PWC’s Facebook page for photos and video from Saturday’s event. 

Thank you Repair Affair sponsors!

Posted on May 10, 2013 by kim

Tommow is Repair Affair, and we're so thankful for the 800-plus volunteers who will be helping nearly 100 homeowners with the repairs they need to safely stay in their own homes! If you are a volunteer, please make sure to take pics and send them to sullivank@pwchomerepairs.org!

Also, we couldn't do this event without our sponsors! Kudos to:

Presenting Sponsor 
City of Cincinnati

Major Sponsors 

*Cincinnati Children’s Hospital

*Prus Construction

 *Rumpke

 *The Home Depot Foundation

 *Advanced Testing Laboratory

*Macy’s

*Recker and Boerger

*Viox Services

Supporting Sponsors 

*ABC Supply

*AK Steel Foundation

*Applied Energy Products

*City of Fairfield

*Coca-Cola

*Danis Construction

*Deltec, Inc.

*G/C Contracting Corp.

*Hixson Architecture Engineering Interiors

*Keidel Supply

*Northgate Mall

*Phillips-Edison

*Senco Brands, Inc.

*Solvay

PWC Seeking Clients for Summer Weatherization Services

Posted on May 03, 2013 by pwcstaff

PWC is seeking clients throughout Greater Cincinnati for free home weatherization services.

Income-qualifying clients can save significantly on their home bills while also conserving energy all summer long. And, because the waiting list is shorter in the summer, clients can receive services soon after paperwork is completed. 

“Weatherization services are important throughout the year, and can help homeowners save on energy usage up to 20 percent or more,” said Nina Creech, PWC vice president of operations.  

And, according to a recent study, PWC clients were better able to pay their Duke Energy bills after receiving PWC’s services.

PWC weatherization experts, such as Eric Donohue, pictured left, offer home weatherization services to income-qualified clients throughout the year. All qualifying participants receive a furnace clean and tune, health and safety check, energy-efficient light bulbs and energy-saving tips. If needed, each participant can also receive a hot water heater wrap, weather stripping, pipe wrap and more.

To find out if you qualify for PWC’s weatherization services, please visit www.pwchomerepairs.org or call 513-351-7921. 

Easy spring weatherization tips!

Posted on April 29, 2013 by kim

Here are a few energy tips for a nice spring day:

*Open doors and windows for a cross breeze rather than using central air conditioning.

*Use ceiling fans on warm days. Ceiling fans can lower the temperature feeling by about 4 degrees in a room.

*Use a garden hose to spray your outdoor central air unit and clean the fins protecting it.

*Make sure gutters and downspouts are clean to avoid additional groundwater reaching the basement.

*Control your heat system by raising the lowering the thermostat during the day when not needed, and setting back 1-4 degrees at night.

*Take advantage of the longer daylight hours, and open blinds and curtains for light. Turn off lights in rooms not being used. Dust light bulbs, you may be surprised at the increased light they give off.

*Hang clothes outdoors to dry on a nice spring day.

*Check your outside hose hookups/ faucets for leaks.

*Check your furnace filter monthly, and check your registers to make sure they are not blocked by furniture an the vent covers are clean during spring cleaning.

*Get out !  Save electricity by getting outside during nice weather, and walking or biking rather than taking your car when possible.

Volunteer for Repair Affair!

Posted on April 26, 2013 by kim

Have home repair skills? Want to volunteer to help a homeowner in need? Join PWC Saturday, May 11 when we expect over 900 volunteers to help more than 100 elderly or disabled homeowners in Ohio, Northern Kentucky and Indiana.

 
Repair Affair was developed by People Working Cooperatively in 1983 as a free outreach program to help very low-income elderly and disabled homeowners with the home repairs they need to keep their homes safe and habitable. Low-income, elderly and disabled homeowners are often the most vulnerable residents in a community. When they physically or financially lose the ability to care for their homes, their quality of life can diminish.

Repairs typically range from installing ramps to gutter repair or replacement. Skilled volunteers can also perform electrical, drywall, or concrete work. 
As a volunteer, you will not only help a neighbor who needs you, but make a real and immediate impact in your community! You will also have the opportunity to meet other community-minded people at the Repair Affair after-party for supporters and volunteers just like you!

As always, this event could never be possible without the support of our sponsors.  This year’s presenting sponsor is City of Cincinnati; major sponsors are Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Prus Construction and Rumpke; supporting sponsors are AK Steel Foundation, City of Fairfield, Danis Construction, Deltec, Inc., G/C Contracting Corp., Hixson Architecture, Engineering Interiors Keidel Supply Co., Phillips-Edison, Senco Brands, Inc. and Solvay.

To sign up a Repair Affair team, you can register online at www.pwchomerepairs.org/repairaffair. Or call 513-351-7921 and ask for Sara!

PWC Celebrates Earth Day at EcoSculpt

Posted on April 19, 2013 by pwcstaff

Earth Day is just three days away, and PWC is showing its “go green” spirit all month long as a presenting sponsor of the Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance’s EcoSculpt, Cincinnati’s annual green arts event.

This year’s EcoSculpt began on April 5 and features environmentally-friendly sculptures, displays and a series of Earth month events. As presenting sponsor, PWC has its own eco-house in the park where visitors can vote for their favorite sculptures. PWC’s voting booth also doubles as an efficiency demonstration home where EcoSculpt attendees can learn more about energy conservation practices for their own homes.

With springtime weather upon us, energy conservation services will remain important long after Earth Day and EcoSculpt conclude. PWC’s weatherization services can save homeowners up to 20 percent on energy usage. To see if you’re eligible for free weatherization services, visit www.pwchomerepairs.org or call (513) 351-7921.

In the meantime, head out to Washington Park and celebrate Earth Day at PWC’s EcoSculpt Voting Booth, now through April 26!

Easy spring home maintenance tips

Posted on April 12, 2013 by kim

Now that spring’s in full bloom, it’s time to tackle seasonal home maintenance. Here are a few simple solutions for common household chores, plus tips on when it’s best to seek out an expert.

Replacing Batteries in Smoke Detectors

·Do It Yourself: Smoke alarms help save lives, but only if they’re maintained properly. Change the batteries in your detectors at least once a year or when they start chirping, a sound that usually indicates low battery life. Be sure to replace alarms every 10 years. (Smoke detector information from the National Fire Protection Association website.)

Tip: Two common types of alarms are ionization and photoelectric. The first best detects flaming, fast-moving fires and the second better registers smoldering smoky fires—it’s recommended that both be used in homes. Also available are combination alarms with both types built-in.

·Call a Professional: If you’re replacing outdated detectors, consider having a qualified electrician install an interconnected system. Alarms are linked and powered by your home’s electricity (and backed up with batteries), so that when one sounds, they all go off.

Changing Air Filters

·Do It Yourself: Before spring allergy season gets the best of you, tend to the air filters in your heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Designed to trap airborne particles, increase energy efficiency and prevent clogs in air ducts, they require regular replacement (disposable filters) or cleaning (reusable filters). Maintain yours as recommended in the owner’s manual; generally, you’ll want to replace every 1-3 months or clean monthly. When in doubt, check the filter—if it’s dirty, change or clean it.

Tip: Buy filters in bulk. Wholesalers often offer them at discount prices, and stocking up now means you’ll be ready for frequent changes when extreme heat hits.

Call a Professional: Consult a heating and cooling expert if maintaining filters as directed doesn’t improve your system’s efficiency. By getting the needed repairs now, you reduce the risk of a system failure during sweltering summer months, when skilled technicians are in high demand (and come with a heftier price tag). Know a low-income, elderly or disabled homeowner who could use free home weatherization? Call PWC at 351-7921!

Three-Year Study Shows PWC’s Impact in the Community

Posted on April 05, 2013 by pwcstaff

The  Cadmus Study results are in, and we’re excited to share some findings about PWC’s positive impact in the community.

In 2009, PWC contracted with Cadmus of Portland, Ore. and the University of Cincinnati’s Economics Center to conduct comprehensive evaluations of PWC’s services throughout Ohio. The study, which evaluates PWC’s whole house strategy, revealed that PWC’s services benefit both clients and the Greater Cincinnati community in a number of ways. Here are a few key Cadmus Study findings:

1.       PWC’s energy conservation services save clients’ households an average of $284 on energy bills in the first year after services were received. Additionally, PWC’s conservation services will allow clients to continue saving money every year.

2.       After receiving PWC services, clients changed their behavior and paid more of their Duke Energy bills. This amounted to $200,000 in additional payments by PWC clients on their Duke Energy accounts.

3.       PWC’s services help children perform in the classroom. The study evaluated Hamilton County students who were forced to move after scoring on average 15 percent lower on standardized reading tests and 17 percent lower on math tests.

4.       After PWC’s services, 44 percent of clients reported improved health, and as a results 15 percent were able to seek medical attention less frequently.

5.      PWC’s services can benefit taxpayers, too. An average of $54,000 can be saved annually for each PWC client that doesn’t need to move to a nursing home or assisted living facility.

If you’d like to access the comprehensive Cadmus Study findings, please reference the Executive Summary.

We’re proud to share these positive results and plan to continue making a positive impact for residents in the Cincinnati community and beyond.

PWC Community Room Updates to be Finished by May

Posted on March 29, 2013 by pwcstaff

Exciting changes are coming to PWC’s Community Room this spring thanks to generous help from our local partners.

Before the PWC building was purchased in 2002, the Community Room area was used as a maintenance bay for trucks.Fast forward 11 years, and the Community Room is now our main location for volunteer events and PWC gatherings.  The original space didn’t require the working utilities we need today, such as heating and lighting. Strong community support will help us fix these issues and transform the Community Room into a functional gathering space to be enjoyed by all friends of PWC. Here are a few of our major partners:

·         Hixson Architecture Engineering Interiors provided architecture and design work and created all of our construction drawings.

·         Danis Building Construction volunteered time and resources to project manage.

·         Denier Electric provided all of the necessary electric labor and supplies.

·         Keidel Supply Co. donated the room’s plumbing and kitchen appliances; and

·         Viox Services, a major PWC donor, contributed all of the room’s cabinets. Viox Services President Mike Viox is also a PWC Board member.

According to PWC Director of Development Bill Hitch, PWC’s Community Room vision has come to fruition through generous community partnerships.

“Between in-kind and pro bono work and grants, we’re coming to close not spending any valuable PWC client money on the upgrades,” says Hitch. “The best way I can describe our Community Room success is ‘the power of partnership.’ We’re thankful for everyone who has helped.”

The Community Room is expected to be finished by Repair Affair on May 11. We’d like to give a special thanks to all of our community partners for making this upgrade possible.

Community Room Partners

·         Bill Glass Plumbing

·         cHc Fabricating

·         CinFab

·         Danis Building Construction

·         Denier Electric

·         Graybar Electric

·         Hixson Architecture Engineering Interiors

·         Hilltop Concrete

·         Home Depot

·         ITA

·         JP Flooring

·         KBR

·         Keidel Supply Co.

·         LaForce

·         NexGen Building Supply

·         Perry Interiors

·         Richards Electric Supply

·         Straight Line

·         Viox Services

·         Valley Interiors

Funding Partners

·         The Louise Taft Semple Foundation

·         The Thomas J. Emery Memorial

·         The Sutphin Family Foundation

·         The Spaulding Foundation

·         The State of Ohio

·         The Kroger Foundation

·         The RC Durr Foundation

·         The John P. Schroth Family Charitable Trust (PNC)

Spring Weatherization Tips!

Posted on March 22, 2013 by kim

Frost is still in the air - so it's still a good time to think about weatherizing your home. Think of it as part of your spring cleaning! Here are a few tips from the PWC energy conservation experts to get you started!

Put weather-stripping around windows and doors.

Insulate your attic, wall, and floors.

Caulk windows and door frames to seal cracks and keep in warm or cool air.

Cook and boil water with lids on pots and pans.

Clean your dryer’s lint trap with every load.

Do not place  televisions or lamps close to your thermostat. They will generate false thermostat readings.

Hold your furnace filters up to a bright light. If it is difficult to see the light, it is time to clean or replace them.

Turn thermostat down five degrees at night or when no one is home; 70° is comfortable for most people.

Make sure nothing is blocking the supply and return heating/air-conditioning registers.

Use energy efficient light bulbs. They can save you up to 75% of your lighting costs.

Clean your light bulbs (when they are cool), since dirt absorbs light and wastes energy.

Place your refrigerator away from the oven and dishwasher.  If they must be next to each other, be sure there is insulation between them.

Turn your hot water heater down to 120 degrees to save money.

Insulate your hot water supply pipes using polyurethane foam pipe wrap.

Use cold water whenever possible to wash clothes, and always use cold water to rinse clothes.

Keep refrigerator coils clean and unobstructed, clean around the motor only when unplugged.

When drying clothes, try to do one full load immediately after the next.

Low flow shower heads can reduce your hot water energy use up to a third!

PWC a finalist for Cincinnati Business Courier’s Green Business Awards

Posted on March 15, 2013 by pwcstaff

Chris Jones, Nina Creech and Stacy O’Leary celebrated PWC being named finalist for the Cincinnati Business Courier’s Green Business Awards on March 7. PWC is dedicated to implementing green initiatives in the agency’s daily work, and is proud to be recognized as an awards finalist. For more information on how PWC is going green, please visit www.pwchomerepairs.org. 

(Photo by Mark Bealer for the Cincinnati Business Courier from BizJournals.com).

Thank you for helping make this years Oscar Experience: Cincinnati the most successful one yet!

Posted on March 07, 2013 by kim

On February 24^th, PWC hosted Salute to the King Oscar Experience: Cincinnati. This was PWC’s 16th star-studded gala in conjunction with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Each year, the Academy selects nonprofits, like PWC, across the country to hold fundraisers in conjunction with the live Academy Awards ceremony, using official Academy materials just like Hollywood! This year’s attendance rate was the highest, with 500 people showing up to enjoy the glitz and glamour of the Academy Awards at the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland.

Guests were able to enjoy great raffles, silent and live auctions, and even a Framester photo booth, all with a special Elvis twist. Everyone indulged in a rock-n-roll menu fit for a king, including Memphis style ribs and country fried ham. It was real Hollywood (or Vegas) glamour all night long!

We also set a paddle-raiser record, with more than $34,000 raised for our Modifications for Mobility program. This money is being used to help Austin, an 18-year-old boy who has Muscular Dystrophy, and is unable to bathe in his own house.

About Austin

18-year-old Austin is just like any other teenage boy who loves pizza, steak, Mexican food and chicken alfredo. He’s a Bengals fan and he loves vintage Corvettes. Like any other high school senior he has hopes and dreams of going to college and maybe one day becoming a minister.

But he also dreams of the simple dignity of taking a bath, and being able to get in and out of the tub without the help of his mother. Austin has Muscular Dystrophy and must rely on a power wheelchair for all of his mobility. His muscles are very weak, and he is unable to do the simplest tasks that most people take for granted.

“I just want to be able to help myself,” he said. “I hate having to depend on my mom and dad just to get a bath. If I could bathe myself, I would feel more confident…I just dream about being able to submerge my body in water. I would love how that would feel.”

Austin’s parents Kathy and Ronald can’t afford to renovate their bathroom in their Goshen home to meet Austin’s needs. Kathy has epilepsy and suffers from seizures. Ronald works at a warehouse job and must be on-call to care for Kathy and Austin. Money is so tight they often must rely on their local food pantry for groceries.

In all, the family needs to renovate the bathroom so Austin can take a bath. Austin would also benefit from central air conditioning because patients with Muscular Dystrophy have weakness in their lungs and have difficulty breathing.

The scope of the work needed by the family is beyond PWC’s typical funding limits.. Your donations at Oscar Experience will make a difference in Austin’s life.

Your support of Oscar Experience has made a real and visible difference in the community. We want to say thank you (thank you very much) to everyone who attended Salute to the King Oscar Experience: Cincinnati, as well as our title sponsor Viox Services and all of our sponsors for making this year’s Oscar Experience possible. Check out event photos on our Facebook Page.

National Disabilities Awareness Month: How You Can Help

Posted on March 01, 2013 by pwcstaff

Today marks the start of National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. At PWC, we’re dedicated to helping disabled homeowners throughout the year, and we plan to spend this March spreading the word about how all community members can help those with developmental disabilities.

The 2013 National Development Disabilities Awareness Month theme is “Look Beyond.” This year’s theme encourages people to go out of their way and welcome those with disabilities as part of the community.

Ohio’s Department of Developmental Disabilities created a Bill of Rights for Persons with Developmental Disabilities. The bill’s 24 amendments not only guarantee that those with disabilities have equal rights; it also helps all community members to recognize how they can help. Several examples from Bill of Rights for Persons with Developmental Disabilities include:

·         Amendment I: Be treated nicely at all times and as a person.

·         Amendment II: Have a clean, safe place to live and a place to be alone.

·         Amendment VII: Be able to have people help and teach you, if you want.

·         Amendment X: Be able to have your own things and be able to use them.

·         Amendment XIV: Be treated like everyone else.

Here at PWC, we know all 24 amendments are critical to helping those with developmental disabilities. With our background in major home repairs and modifications, we’re especially able to assist with Amendment II by providing a clean, safe living environment.

If you’d like to help out this National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, please consider assisting us in working toward our mission of providing low-income, elderly and disabled homeowners with critical home repairs. There are many ways you can help. Be it an online donation, volunteering time or supporting our events, you can help provide those in need with a higher quality of living throughout the year. For more information, visit www.pwchomerepairs.org. 

Follow The Oscar Experience: Cincinnati this Sunday

Posted on February 22, 2013 by pwcstaff

It’s officially Friday of Oscar week and PWC is buzzing with Oscar Experience excitement!

We’re looking forward to watching guests “Salute to the King” at Sunday’s event at the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza. The event starts at 5:30 p.m. in the Hall of Mirrors on the third floor. Expect delicious food, a silent auction and raffle, guest photos and live music from nationally-known Elvis performer, Ryan Roth.

Can’t attend the event? That’s okay – you can still be part of the fun by following our guest social media correspondents, Julie Niesen Gosdin of Wine Me Dine Me and Katy Crossen  of Kate’s Random Musings. Follow their Twitter handles (@winemedineme and @kate_the_great) throughout the event to be part of the fun.

We also want to say thank you (thank you very much) again to title sponsor Viox Services and all of our sponsors for making this year’s Oscar Experience possible – we know it’s going to be great. See you Sunday, Cincinnati!

Jere McIntyre Discusses Aging in Place at Alzheimer’s Association Event

Posted on February 15, 2013 by pwcstaff

Earlier this week, PWC’s very own Jere McIntyre was a panelist for the Greater Cincinnati Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. The “Panel for Staying Safe” on Feb. 13 was centered on how local organizations can help those with Alzheimer’s age safely in their homes.

 As director of Whole Home and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), Jere was eager share his institutional insights and tips for keeping loved ones with Alzheimer’s safe in the home. Some of Jere’s tips include:

 ·         Assess the home and identify areas that could be dangerous for someone with Alzheimer’s, such as the kitchen, bathroom, stairways or basements. If you need help, Whole Home’s Certified Aging in Place Specialists (CAPS) are trained to guide you through this process.

·         To prevent wandering, install deadbolts out of sight – either high or low on exterior doors. You can also use signals, such as a bell or home alarm, to alert when someone leaves the home.

·         Place memory-cuing objects, such as photos, paintings and other mementoes within sight to continue refreshing your loved one’s memory.

·         Ensure walkways are well-lit. Entries, doorways, stairways and hallways should have extra lights and auto-on lighting to increase the area’s familiarity and prevent fall-related injuries.

·         Furnish the home simply to improve mobility and lower the risk for accidental falls. It’s also smart to keep recognizable furniture, such as a favorite chair, in clear view to increase familiarity.

For more advice on helping those affected with Alzheimer’s age safely at home, please visit www.wholehome.org or stop by the Whole Home Showroom at 6543 Harrison Ave. in Dent today.

“Fit for the King: 2013 Oscars Menu”

Posted on February 05, 2013 by kim

Each year, attendees at Oscar® Experience: Cincinnati are treated like Hollywood stars. From the red carpet to the big screen, the night is filled with glamour and glitz and the food is no exception. The Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza provides guests with a 5 star dining experience fit for the King.  Todd Kelly, Executive Chef and Director of Food & Beverage at the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza is the one behind for this year’s Memphis style menu.

Since Todd has been at the head of the hotel’s culinary department, Orchids has been named Cincinnati’s Top Restaurant by Zagat Survey in both 2011 and 2012 and One of the Top 50 Restaurants in the U.S. by Open Table in 2010. Todd was also named a Hilton Hotel Signature Chef, one of only six in the U.S., in 2010. Orchids was also named number one restaurant in the city by Cincinnati Magazine in 2011, 2010 & 2009, received a five-star rating from The Cincinnati Enquirer, and maintained a prestigious Four-Diamond rating from AAA.  Todd was named the 2011-2012 Chef of the Year by the American Culinary Federation. 

This year, Todd has specifically created a rock n’ roll themed menu that will have you saying, “Thank you, Thank you very much.”

Hors d’oeuvres- Country ham biscuits with pepper jelly, peanut butter, banana and bacon sandwiches, rock shrimp hush puppies, gruyere puffs with local honey and thyme

Salad-Sweet potato “Waldorf" salad with candied pecans and crème fraiche, corn bread and honey butter

Entrée- Memphis style short ribs with Potato Galette and green beans

Dessert- Banana Pudding

Make sure you don’t miss out on this extraordinary meal by purchasing your Oscar® Experience: Cincinnati tickets today!

Below: Chef Kelly

Keep furnace use efficient during wild winter weather

Posted on February 01, 2013 by pwcstaff

Whether or not the groundhog sees his shadow this Saturday, spring is still two months away, and we have several more furnace-filled weeks ahead of us. 

Many Greater Cincinnati residents rely on furnaces to keep their families warm during winter. But during these recent temperature spikes and drops, such as this week’s 40-degree decrease, residents may question how to most efficiently use their furnaces.

Homeowners are encouraged to turn the thermostat down during warm days (no lower than 50 degrees), but they should never completely turn off a heating system during the winter, according to the Seattle Times. Entirely shutting off heat may cause pipes to freeze, furnaces to malfunction and mold and mildew to form.

In fact, for those who spend four hours or more out of the home per day, it’s recommended to turn the thermostat down – not off – to save money and energy. Setting the thermostat back 10 degrees while at work can reduce a heating bill by 15 to 20 percent, according to the Seattle Times.

Programmable thermostats provide users the option to develop a pre-set schedule for temperature settings.  With this savvy system, heat can be turned down when homeowners leave for work, then back on several hours later when the workday is finished.

Homeowners can also reduce the winter’s high heating costs by properly taking care of their furnace with the following efficiency tips from our PWC weatherization experts:

·         Furnace filters should be changed once per month, as dust and airborne debris frequently clog the filters.

·         Cover glass windows with blinds and curtains to insulate cold glass and keep warm air circulating throughout the home.

·         Seal cracks around the door, windows and chimneys to stop warm air from leaking outside.

·         Have the furnace checked annually by a qualified technician to prevent minor problems from turning into major, costly expenses.

PWC’s weatherization experts can help with a variety of cold weather issues, including furnace cleaning and tuning, and installing weatherization materials. Weatherization and energy conservation is important in every season and our services are available year-round.

For more information, or to find out if you’re eligible, please visit our website or call (513) 351-7921.  

Supporting Oscar® Experience helps real people like Clayton Baker

Posted on January 25, 2013 by kim

Supporting PWC’s Oscar® Experience: Cincinnati helps real people like Clayton Baker.

Born with Cerebral Palsy and weighing just 1.5 lbs., doctors told Clayton’s parents “not to expect much,”… but what they received was more than they ever dreamed.

“He’s my special buddy… he’s really an amazing kid,” said dad, Nicholas. “He’s such a happy boy… loves going outside…I can’t imagine life without him.”

But as the little boy grew, his size made it difficult for mom and dad to navigate the steps in their century-old Middletown home.  Stairs made it difficult to get Clayton to school or the therapy he needed. The family needed a ramp so Clayton could get in and out of the house.

The Bakers heard about People Working Cooperatively from the City of Middletown. Then the dream of a ramp became a reality.

“He loves going up the ramp,” said his dad, “he’s just a little scared of going down. But now he can’t wait to go outside to get on the school bus. It’s opened a whole new world for him.”

But there was more. Clayton’s needs were growing along with his size – and People Working Cooperatively saw the family needed more help to care for him safely inside the home. Carrying him up and down the steps was becoming impossible. Traditional funding wasn’t available for a large renovation – but a special paddle-raiser at Oscar® Experience could help.

Generous guests at PWC’s Oscar® gala contributed to the need, and the family was able to receive a renovated first-floor bedroom for Clayton that made his care easier. PWC turned the family’s living room into a first-floor bedroom suite for Clayton, complete with an accessible bath and laundry facilities.

“This has made Clayton’s care so much easier,” said his dad. “We were so worried about dropping him now that he’s grown older. We’re thankful for the people who contributed at Oscar® Night to make this renovation a dream come true. We are so grateful for People Working Cooperatively.”

You can help a client this year by attending Oscar® Experience: Cincinnati Feb. 24. Call Staci Grant at 351-7921 or visit the Oscar® Experience page and buy tickets or raffle tickets online!

Enjoying The Oscar® Experience: Cincinnati 2013

Posted on January 18, 2013 by pwcstaff

Did you know Cincinnati is one of 45 cities to bring the Oscar experience to life at an official Academy Awards^® viewing party?

The five-star event, The Oscar^® Experience: Cincinnati, will take place in just a few short weeks! Attendees can walk the red carpet among cheering fans, dine on a gourmet three-course meal and enjoy the Academy Awards live on a big screen in one of Cincinnati’s finest venues, the Cincinnati Netherland Hilton Plaza.

Join PWC on February 24 for the Oscar Experience and help raise funds for our most vulnerable clients. This year’s event will be a rocking good time with the theme Salute to the King. And generous sponsors including title sponsor Viox Services (pictured below) help us make this Hollywood-style event possible.

Presenting sponsors for 2013 are Advanced Testing Laboratory, Macy’s and Recker & Boerger. Major sponsors are Citi, Fifth Third Bank, PNC Bank, Prestige Audio Visual and Zone CG. Supporting sponsors are Focused Capitol Solutions and Towers Watson. Media sponsors are WCPO-TV, WVXU, Cincinnati Magazine and 55 KRC. Chairs of this year’s event are Jody Aschendorf of Hyde Park and Mike Calvin of Mariemont.

If you’re familiar with PWC, you know that we provide life-altering modifications to low-income, elderly and disabled clients. But these home modifications are costly and funding is scarce. This year marks the 16^th annual Oscar party with funds supporting our Modifications for Mobility program so that those clients on our waiting list for critical home modifications can get the help they so desperately need.

Can’t attend? Tell your family and friends about Cincinnati’s official Oscar Experience and the good they can accomplish in just one evening!

Join the PWC Team in 2013

Posted on January 04, 2013 by pwcstaff

At PWC, we know the importance of a solid, dedicated volunteer base and we’re thankful every day for our committed team. We have hundreds of clients who need assistance – ranging from broken furnaces to leaking roofs – and we know going into 2013 that need will remain. Therefore we’d like to ask you to give back and help the community by joining our PWC team this year!

To help our clients’ varying needs, we’re seeking skilled volunteers for 2013. We have a variety of volunteer opportunities, including our annual volunteer events, Home Improvement Saturdays, team volunteering, and more. For those not handy around the house, we have volunteer events like The Oscar Experience that can always use dedicated, creative volunteers.

But don’t take it from us – ask our team. PWC’s volunteers see the immediate impact their work has on the client, be it cheering for joy or tearing up with happiness.

PWC volunteer Keenan Beauchamp, pictured here, experienced this reaction after installing a ramp for a Covington client.

 “I noticed she'd taken her glasses off and was wiping her face. Her eyes were slightly red. I asked if she was okay, then realized she was sitting in her kitchen doorway, looking at the ramp and was crying,” he said. “I told her she was going to turn all of us into weepy messes if she wasn't careful. At Redeemer, we call these God moments."

You can spread this happiness throughout the community as a PWC volunteer. For more information, please visit our website or call Sara Bourgeois, volunteer manager, at (513) 351-7921. 

2012: A Year in Review

Posted on December 21, 2012 by jock pitts

With the end of the year just a few short weeks away, it’s time for us to take pause to reflect on what we accomplished this year. Looking back at the past 12 months, I can say without doubt, PWC and Whole Home accomplished many feats.

From a “Wild, Wild West” celebration of Oscar Night America that raised $150,000 for our Modifications for Mobility program to the Grand Opening of the Whole Home Aging in Place Showroom, we saw many successes in 2012.

We hit impressive milestones for our organization – like the 30^th annual Repair Affair and the 25^th annual Prepare Affair. These are milestones we couldn’t have reached without the help of our dedicated volunteer corps, our generous sponsors, and the enthusiasm of our 130+ employees.

We saw our newest offering, Whole Home, take launch. The social enterprise that will generate funds for our Modifications for Mobility program has served many satisfied customers thus far. Our Whole Home Aging in Place Showroom even received endorsement from universal design expert Rosemarie Rosetti.  

2012 was a year for awards: PWC was named a Top Place to Work by Enquirer Media for the second year in a row. One of our own, Jere McIntyre, was named a Second Act winner by the Business Courier for his work as director of modifications for PWC and Whole Home.

It was also a year for honoring our veterans. On September 6, we kicked off our first veterans-focused initiative, Ramp It Up for Veterans. Through great partnerships with The Home Depot Foundation and Senco, we helped 58 local veterans and raised more than $170,000 to help even more veterans who are in great need of our services.

We continue to see these needs across all neighborhoods in our community. In 2011, we saw a record-breaking number of calls for help. In 2012, we saw more of the same. PWC, through our whole house approach, provides tangible value to the homeowner served, their neighbors and the larger region. Our work is so incredibly important for the region; we aim to continue helping as many clients as possible.

With 2013 quickly approaching, I hope that you continue to support PWC and Whole Home. We have more good works ahead. 

Please note: PWC will be closed for the holidays Dec. 22, 2012 through Jan. 2, 2013.

Save the Date: The Oscar® Experience on Feb. 24, 2013

Posted on November 30, 2012 by pwcstaff

The Oscars may be several months away, but it’s never too early to start planning for one of PWC’s biggest nights of the year: The Oscar® Experience.

On Feb. 24, 2013, PWC will host The Oscar® Experience at the Cincinnati Netherland Hilton Plaza. This year’s theme is “Salute to the King,” and the 2013 event chairs are Jody Aschendorf of Hyde Park and Mike Calvin of Mariemont. Both women are longtime supporters of PWC.

The Oscar Experience® is part of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which annually selects nonprofits nationwide to hold fundraisers during the live Academy Awards ceremony.

The event benefits PWC’s Modifications for Mobility program that provides low-income, elderly and disabled homeowners with important home modifications. PWC’s 2012 Oscar event was recognized as one of the most successful Oscar events in the country.

If your company wants to be involved with The Oscar® Experience, please call PWC’s Development Department at (513) 351-7921. Stay tuned to PWC’s Facebook and Twitter pages for updates on when individual tickets become available.

We look forward to seeing you for this year’s star-studded event!

Happy Holidays from PWC!

Posted on November 28, 2012 by kim

Try our video maker at Animoto.

Happy Thanksgiving 2012!

Posted on November 21, 2012 by pwcstaff

Here at PWC, we’re thankful all year round! We’re thankful for our dedicated volunteers, our compassionate supporters, our loyal partners and our generous donors.

Thank you for helping us help others.

What are you thankful for?

image courtesy of www.peanuts.com

Whole Home Showroom to Hold Grand Opening Tomorrow

Posted on November 16, 2012 by pwcstaff

We’ve had a whirlwind past couple of weeks here at PWC  with Prepare Affair Nov. 10 and our Ramp It Up for Veterans video featured at the Bengals game Nov. 11. We’re keeping the momentum going with the Whole Home Aging in Place Showroom Grand Opening tomorrow at 9 a.m.

The Whole Home Aging in Place Showroom, located at 6543 Harrison Ave., will serve as a Fall Prevention Education Center for the Greater Cincinnati community.  The Showroom features grab bars, bath and kitchen modifications, EZ Access Ramps and additional fall prevention products. Whole Home also offers free in-home consultations by certified aging-in-place specialists.

During the grand opening celebration, Whole Home experts will offer tips and demonstrations on how to reduce the risk of falls. The grand opening will also feature showroom tours, prizes and refreshments.

So join us Saturday, Nov. 17 to celebrate the grand opening of the Whole Home Showroom!  Just take exit 11 off I-74 and you’ll find us across from Meijer’s and Kohl’s.

Can’t make it Saturday? Stop by during our Grand Opening Week (November 17-24). Store hours are:

·         Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (closed Sunday)

·         Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

·         Thursday (closed for Thanksgiving)

·         Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

For more information, visit our website at www.wholehome.org or give us a call at (513) 482-5100. We look forward to seeing you there!   

Cold weather tips to keep you warm around the house!

Posted on November 09, 2012 by kim

Over 3,000 volunteers will be out in the Tri-State Nov. 10 to rake leaves and clean gutters for over 1,000 elderly homeowners for Prepare Affair! This event kicks off the winter season at PWC, so there's no better time to think of home weatherization and ways you can stay warm and save on your utility bills this winter. If you or someone you know is a low-income homeowner or renter, please have them call PWC at 513-351-7921 today to see if they are eligible for free home weatherization! This is such an important service to keep your home in tip-top shape and save money on utility usage.

In the mean time, here are some energy-saving tips to get you started:

 - Put weather-stripping around windows and doors. Insulate your attic, wall, and floors.
 - Caulk windows and door frames to seal cracks and keep in warm air.
 - Put plastic over your windows if you do not have newer-type replacement windows. Window kits are available at most hardware or discount stores.
 - Purchase insulated drapes.
 - Close your basement air vent when running the heat.
 - Cook and boil water with lids on pots and pans.
 - Clean your dryer’s lint trap with every load.
 - Do not place  televisions or lamps close to your thermostat. They will generate false thermostat readings.
 - Hold your furnace filters up to a bright light. If it is difficult to see the light, it is time to clean or replace them.
 - You should replace filters every 30-60 days to keep your furnace in tip-top shape!
 - Turn thermostat down five degrees at night or when no one is home; 70° is comfortable for most people.
 - Make sure nothing is blocking the supply and return heating/air-conditioning registers.
 - Use energy efficient light bulbs like fluorescent, especially the compact fluorescents. They can save you up to 75% of your lighting costs.
 - Clean your light bulbs (when they are cool), since dirt absorbs light and wastes energy.
 - Place your refrigerator away from the oven and dishwasher.  If they must be next to each other, be sure there is insulation between them.
 - Clean and defrost your refrigerator and freezer. Do not allow frost build up more than three inches thick.
 - Turn your hot water heater down to 120 degrees to save money.
 - Insulate your hot water supply pipes using polyurethane foam pipe wrap.
 - Use cold water whenever possible to wash clothes, and always use cold water to rinse clothes.
 - Keep refrigerator coils clean and unobstructed, clean around the motor only when unplugged.
 - When drying clothes, try to do one full load immediately after the next.
 - Low flow shower heads can reduce your hot water energy use up to a third!
 - Seal areas where floor and ceiling joists meet walls.
 - Seal openings between living areas and spaces. Seal your ductwork. Leaky ducts cause wasted heat loss.

“Ramp It Up For Veterans” on Nov. 11

Posted on November 02, 2012 by pwcstaff

Veteran’s Day is almost one week away, and it’s important for us to take a step back and appreciate the brave men and women who serve our country.

Here at PWC, we’re showing our appreciation for veterans by making one final push for the “Ramp It Up For Veterans” initiative that PWC launched Sept. 6 with the help of Senco, our dedicated mobile giving sponsor.

“Ramp It Up For Veterans” is a text-to-donate initiative raising funds to eliminate the wait for veterans in need of critical home modifications. One hundred percent of the donations go directly to help PWC serve low-income, elderly and disabled military veterans in Greater Cincinnati.  

We are in the final stages and hope to get community support to help as many of our local veterans as possible as Veteran’s Day approaches. To show your appreciation, you can donate by texting PWC to 80888, or donations can be made online.

To wrap up the two-month initiative, PWC and Senco are bringing Ramp It Up For Veterans to Paul Brown Stadium on Nov. 11. At halftime, we’ll show the Ramp It Up For Veterans video we’ve been compiling over the past few weeks that features a few local celebrities and highlights how simple home modifications can help our veterans get around their homes safely. And you can check out the quality ramps that PWC installs, courtesy of EZ Access.

From entrance ramps to grab bars, our local veterans need critical home modifications, and you can help. Help us Ramp It Up For Veterans by texting PWC to 80888 in honor of Veteran’s Day now through next Sunday!

Annual Recognition Celebration a Time to Reflect and Share Future Plans

Posted on October 19, 2012 by pwcstaff

People Working Cooperatively celebrated another successful year of saving homes and restoring pride at its Annual Recognition Celebration at the Cintas Center, Xavier University. This celebration, held on Thursday, October 18, was an opportunity for PWC to reflect on its achievements since last year and share its plans for the future.  

 PWC’s President Jock Pitts shared a message of how the organization is returning value to the community. “PWC’s work provides value to the homeowners we serve, by keeping families in their homes in a safer and more secure environment” Pitts says. “But we also provide tangible value to the taxpayer, the utility rate payer, their neighborhood, and the community.”

This year, PWC invited Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D., a powerful, internationally known speaker, trainer, consultant, writer, and publisher to address the group. “Rosemarie shared lessons she has learned and how to rise about misfortune to live a life with conviction,” Pitts says. “The group was inspired by her powerful and meaningful discussion.”

 On June 13, 1998, Rossetti’s life was transformed when a 3 1/2 ton tree came crushing down on her. Her life was changed in that instant. Paralyzed from the waist down with a spinal cord injury, Rossetti looked deep within herself and found new strength and new resolve.

 Rossetti also spoke to the importance of modifying homes and incorporating universal design to allow people with disabilities and the elderly to age in place. This is especially poignant as PWC recently opened their Whole Home showroom, dedicated to helping the community modify their homes to make it safer as their needs change. For more information, visit www.UDLL.com.

 The celebration is also an opportunity for PWC to honor individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions towards PWC’s mission. 

 This year, PWC was proud to honor the following individuals:

 Chairman’s  Award

Hixson Architecture Engineering Interiors  

Danis Building Construction Co.

Friends of PWC Award

Prus Construction Co.

Applied Energy Products & Sales, Inc

Volunteer of the Year

Mary (Mike) Calvin

Dan Ober Volunteer Hall of Fame Inductees:

Ms. Randi Sandlin, Dr. James Garvey,

Ms. Cherri Pretty

Homer Award:

Mike Viox

Whole Home Showroom Endorsed by Rosemarie Rossetti

Posted on October 15, 2012 by kim

You are invited to our Annual Meeting!

Posted on October 12, 2012 by kim

Whole Home Opens New Aging In Place Showroom

Posted on October 05, 2012 by pwcstaff

Monday was an exciting day for us here as we officially opened our Whole Home Aging In Place Showroom to help local seniors and families find practical modification solutions to improve their home’s accessibility.

Whole Home has been providing local clients with home modification services since January 2012. The Whole Home Showroom, which is open six days a week, will serve as an education center and showroom where people can test and experience the latest modification products.

The Whole Home Showroom features products, displays and mobility solutions to help community members learn how to safely care for themselves and loved ones, including:

·         A wheel chair-accessible kitchen.

·         An automated pocket door.

·         A full-body air dryer.

·         Walk-in tubs display centers.

·         A roll-in shower.

·         EZ Access Ramps.

·         Remodeled bathrooms.

·         Grab bars the blend in with the home’s décor.

As a service of PWC, Whole Home is backed by 25 years of experience in providing mobility solutions to help seniors and those with disabilities live safely in their homes. Whole Home’s services also include five Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists who can assess client needs and provide personalized and practical mobility solutions.

At Whole Home we know the importance of safety and accessibility, and we pride ourselves on offering unique solutions for each of our clients. To get a sense of some unique mobility modifications, take a look at our Whole Home Pinterest board featuring samples of accessibility solutions.  

We’re excited to see the Greater Cincinnati Community at our Whole Home Showroom, located at 6543 Harrison Ave. in Dent. Showroom hours are:

·         Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

·         Thursday, Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

·         Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information, please visit the Whole Home website, or contact us with any questions at (513) 482-5100 or info@wholehome.org.

Heat the Country helps elderly with partnership

Posted on September 28, 2012 by kim

Miss Loretta is a thoughtful, spiritual woman who finds comfort in God and is thankful for the help that PWC has given her.

Today, Loretta was one of 50 elderly PWC clients who received a free furnace clean and tune thanks to volunteers for the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) as part of  “Heat the Country’, kicking off at 2-J Supply in Reading.  Nearly 40 ACCA heating professionals volunteered to clean and tune furnaces for elderly PWC clients.

A single mother of two now grown children, Loretta worked 21 years in environmental services for Children’s Hospital. She is now retired, and has some health concerns. She owns her own home in Avondale, but it is a big drafty house – and good heat is always a problem.

“I hate it when it gets cold and drafty,” she said. “This service is such a blessing to me. It’s so encouraging to see people volunteering to help other people in need. It’s God’s work.”

Dennis Clark, PWC heating manger, noted at the morning ACCA kick-off meeting that the unique volunteer service event is part of what PWC brings to the table – professional trades people and volunteers working together to bring value to client and the entire community.

“You’re helping to fill a real need,” he told the volunteers. “These are jobs we might not have the resources to do ourselves… so you are really serving someone who needs help.”

Thanks to all the ACCA volunteers for a terrific partnership that truly serves the need of the community!

PWC Can Help You Reduce Falls

Posted on September 21, 2012 by pwcstaff

September 22 marks Falls Prevention Awareness Day, and our team here at PWC is standing together to prevent falls.

PWC serves many elderly clients who may have a fear of falling and the services we provide can help prevent those falls from occurring. But it is a real fear for many: in Ohio, falls are the leading cause of injury-related ER visits, hospitalizations and deaths for Ohioans age 65 and older. On average, 2.3 older Ohioans suffered fatal falls each day in 2009.

The National Council on Aging alongside the state of Ohio and 45 other states are recognizing September 22 as National Falls Prevention Awareness Day. The day hopes to spur discussion on falls prevention and the NCOA's Falls Free© Initiative has shared six steps to prevent falls.

6 Steps to Protect Your Older Loved One from a Fall 

 1.      Enlist their support in taking simple steps to stay safe.

2.      Discuss their current health conditions.

3.      Ask about their last eye checkup.

4.      Notice if they’re holding onto walls, furniture, or someone else when walking or if they appear to have difficulty walking or arising from a chair.

5.      Talk about their medications.

6.      Do a walk-through safety assessment of their home.

Our Certified Aging in Place Specialists from PWC are there to help you or your loved one accomplish the sixth step. Our specialists work with medical professional to assess client needs and design the accessible solutions with space, and health care goals in mind.

We understand what is needed for each client – be it as simple as adding a grab bar or as complex as redoing the entire bathroom. Services are available to those who are income eligible and meet other guidelines. To see if you or a loved one is eligible, call 513-351-7921.

Modifications for Mobility is a key PWC program that provides critical home modifications for low-income, elderly and disabled clients. You can help provide this important service though a donation. Your donations to PWC’s Annual Fund support the Modifications for Mobility program and provide flexible dollars that can help meet the true needs of a client.

Help prevent a fall, and preserve your neighbor’s safety though a donation today. Or if you need help, call 513-351-7921. 

Our client, Willa

Posted on September 14, 2012 by kim

Korea and Vietnam War veteran Willa, 80, was a career trailblazer and role model for all women interested in the service, especially African American woman. She was one of just a few who enlisted in the Women’s Army Corps in 1951 to serve three tours of duty as an Army medic. 

Willa grew up in Cincinnati on Cornell Road in Blue Ash – considered “the country” back in the 1950’s. 

“I just knew there was more to the world than just Sycamore High School and Blue Ash,” she said. “So in 1951, just after high school, I took the bus downtown and enlisted.” 

After training in Arizona, it was off to the heart of Tokyo, Japan. “The war was really heavy – a lot of bodies of the wounded were sent to us to clean them up get them on to an Army hospital back in the states,” she said. “It was just heavy duty – just constant, the number of men who came though. And there usually weren’t any doctors… it was all up to us medics. We were the ones who did our own thing…the work.” 

In 1954 she was sent to another medical outpost in France, where she got to see a lot of Europe. When she re-enlisted in 1961, it was a different war the country was fighting – Vietnam. But this time she was able to serve in a hospital stateside in Arizona. 

When she returned home from serving in the war, she bought her first and only house in Wyoming, where she lives today. She married then later divorced – no children. She had a long career first at Children’s Hospital then at other medical facilities and nursing homes. 

But it’s her house that has been at the center of her life – it’s her stability, she said.

“This house is at my core,” she said. “It’s how I stay stable. It means everything to me.” 

A needle in her spine during a procedure in 1974 caused permanent disability and mobility problems. She now has heart problems, too and is on oxygen 24 hours a day. She uses a wheelchair and has a ramp to help her get in and out of the house. 

“I was a pioneer when I was in the Army – there were so few women, especially African American women, who had gone before me,” she said. “… Now I just need a little help."

Volunteers from The Home Depot were able to help Willa with a multitude of repairs Set. 6 for Home Depot's Celebration of Service and PWC's Ramp it up for Vets event. Willa received roof repairs, repairs to her ramp, bath and kitchen... and, as a surprise from The Home Depot, new kitchen cabinets.

"I'm just so excited... I can't wait to see it," she said the day of the event.

“I’m so grateful for PWC.”

September 6 a Big Day for PWC, Veterans

Posted on September 07, 2012 by pwcstaff

Few deserve more than those who defend our freedom, and on September 6, we showed our appreciation by partnering with The Home Depot Foundation for their second annual ‘Celebration of Service’ campaign.

Repairing and Renovating Veterans Homes with The Home Depot Foundation

PWC and The Home Depot Foundation renovated and repaired the homes of 16 local military veterans, ensuring they can age in place, living safely and independently in their own homes.

The day’s excitement didn’t stop there. During our press conference, The Home Depot Foundation presented PWC with a check of $155,000 that will be used to continue the efforts to help repair and renovate the homes of as many low-income, elderly and disabled veterans as possible.

With The Home Depot Foundation’s help, we know we can make a difference in the lives of our area veterans.  And you can make a difference, too.

Launching “Ramp It Up for Veterans”

Through the generosity of our text campaign sponsor, Senco, PWC launched the “Ramp It Up for Veterans” campaign – a text-to-donate campaign that will raise funds to eliminate the wait for veterans in need of critical home repairs and modifications.

“Ramp It Up for Veterans” is designed to help PWC make repairs and modifications to the homes of low income, elderly and disabled military veterans in Greater Cincinnati through donations of $10. One hundred percent of the donations go directly to PWC to serve veterans, and all those who text-to-give are automatically entered into a contest to win $1,000 in Senco tools.

“Ramp it Up for Veterans” will run through Veteran’s Day on November 11.

      Donations can be made by texting the letters PWC to the number 80888.

      You can also make your donation online.

Please join us in saying thanks and showing appreciation to all the brave men and women who served and continue serving our country!

Rhodia Volunteers Lend a Hand (and Hammer) This Week

Posted on August 24, 2012 by pwcstaff

Here at PWC, we had some great help this week from a local company. On August 22, more than 40 volunteers from Rhodia Inc. gave their time and hard work to help PWC repair four Cincinnati homes.

Rhodia has been actively involved with PWC for the past three years as part of the Rhodia Way Community Involvement Initiative. Following the initiative, Rhodia employees provide support to the community while informing people about the company through volunteer opportunities and activities.

“We firmly believe in giving back to the community and the opportunity to help those in need, such as the elderly and disabled, which is a great service PWC provides and one we enjoy supporting,” says Cincinnati Plant Manager Matt Griscom.

 In addition to volunteering, Rhodia recently served as a supporting sponsor during PWC’s 2012 Repair Affair.

“We always enjoy our volunteers from Rhodia,” says Sara Bourgeois, volunteer manager at PWC. “They’re a hardworking group and we’re grateful for the help.”

If you’re looking for volunteer opportunities for your company, be sure to mark down Saturday, Nov. 10 as PWC’s 25^th annual Prepare Affair – a fun opportunity for your company to volunteer with PWC!

PWC gets ready to "Ramp It Up for Veterans"

Posted on August 17, 2012 by staci

You are invited to a very special event at 10 a.m. on September 6 at People Working Cooperatively, 4612 Paddock Road, as we kick off our special "Ramp it up for Veterans" campaign to serve 60 veterans who are on our waiting list for critical home repair and accessibility modification services. The event is sponsored by The Home Depot and features speakers from local veteran's groups, Ohio Department of Veterans Services and more - all designed to honor our true American heroes - the veterans.

Join us to hear Jason Dominguez, assistant director of the Ohio Department of Veteran's Services, PWC President Jock Pitts, Ty Hodges of The Home Depot Foundation, and other members of the veteran's community talk about the work we are doing to assist low-income and disabled veterans with critical home repairs and accessibility modifications.

Also on Sept. 6, volunteers from local Home Depot stores will provide critical repairs and accessibility services for 15 of the 60 low-income veteran households on PWC's waiting list. It would be an honor if you would consider joining us for this important kick-off to help several of our local veterans live more safely and independently in their own homes.

What: Ramp it Up for Veterans Kick-off

Where: 4612 Paddock Road, Cincinnati OH 45229

When: 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 6. Reception 9:30 to 10 a.m. with light refreshments.

Why: Supporting our local veterans and their families in their desire to live in their own home safely and independently.

Parking: Please use the Tennessee Avenue entrance to PWC.

RSVP: Lara Radkey, (513) 351-7921

PWC’s Nina Creech Talks Weatherization on WLWT-TV

Posted on August 10, 2012 by pwcstaff

This week PWC Vice President of Operations Nina Creech spent some time on the set of WLWT-TV for an upcoming episode of Issues.

Nina was there to discuss People Working Cooperatively’s energy conservation and weatherization program, specifically covering PIPP and EPP.

PWC works through the Ohio Department of Develop to provide programs that helps low-income residents who have high electricity usage. One such program is the Electric Partnership Program (EPP) that is designed to improve the efficiency of low-income households that participate in PIPP (Percentage of Income Payment Plan) Plus.

If you miss the episode, be sure to visit WLWT.com to watch the podcast. To see Nina's interview, forward to the 8-minute mark of the show. Or if you need energy assistance from People Working Cooperatively, give us a call so we can help get you started. 

     Ohio residents (513) 351-7921

     Kentucky residents (859) 331-1991

PWC's New LinkedIn Group Focuses on Aging in Place

Posted on August 03, 2012 by staci

Did you know that beginning in 2012 approximately 10,000 Americans will turn 65 everyday? This will escalate until 2030, when over 20% of the U.S. population or about 70 million people will have passed their 65th birthday. What impact will this have on caregivers, the healthcare industry, etc.? You can get in on the conversation by joining our new group “Aging in Place” Networking Group on LinkedIn.

With the landscape of our healthcare system and aging Americans changing each day, this group is a great resource for information and an opportunity interact with others who have an interest in our aging population.  The more members engaged, the more rich the conversation will be.  Join today!

Jere McIntyre wins Business Courier Second Act

Posted on July 27, 2012 by pwcstaff

Last week the Business Courier announced its 2012 Second Act winners, including our very own Jere McIntyre.

Jere has been a full-time employee for roughly one year but has been part of the PWC family for decades. He started volunteering with People Working Cooperatively in 1996 and served as a PWC board member from 1998 to 2011.

In his role at People Working Cooperatively and Whole Home, Jere serves as director of Modifications for Mobility. A Certified Aging in Place Specialist, Jere oversees the daily operations of Whole Home, PWC’s new service that provides quality home modification services for all people above PWC’s current income guidelines.

PWC leadership nominated Jere for the Second Act award, which honors “Cincinnatians who have found success after a first career.” Jere came out of retirement to join on as a full-time employee. He had retired from the David J. Joseph Company in 2008.

If you see Jere in the halls or out in the field, be sure to say congratulations!

You can learn more about Jere’s journey in a special section of the Business Courier out Friday, Sept. 14.

Long-time Friends of PWC Recognized for Dedication

Posted on July 20, 2012 by staci

Long-time volunteers and donors, Joe and Kathy Zielinski, were recently honored with The Voices of Giving Award by the Greater Cincinnati Planned Giving Council.  Each year, the council honors a number of local philanthropists who have made a bequest or other planned gift to local non-profit organizations.  The Voices of Giving award specifically celebrates the generous spirit of these philanthropic individuals whose gestures help to ensure the long-term welfare of the many local non profits which make our community so special.

Kathy retired in 2009 from PWC after a successful 16-year career and continues to volunteer. Joe has been a Field Service Volunteer since 2002 and works every Tuesday making small home repairs for PWC’s low income clients.  

Kathy says it best about their gift to PWC, "We strongly believe in the mission of PWC to keep the low-income, elderly and disabled in their homes.  The respect which each PWC employee shows to their clients is amazing and we want to preserve that service for future clients by including PWC in our wills."

Joe, who spent over 30 years as an Ohio Parole and Probation Officer, says, "We both have been blessed with wonderful jobs in our careers and we wanted to give back to PWC because of our fortunate positions."

Congratulations to Kathy and Joe and thank you for all your support!  If you are interested in receiving more information about planned giving, please call (513) 351-7921 or check out our brochure. 

Twice and Counting: PWC Named a Top Workplace

Posted on July 13, 2012 by pwcstaff

For the second year in a row, PWC was named a Top Workplace by Enquirer Media. What an honor!

Even more impressive, Enquirer Media shared what our employees have to say about People Working Cooperatively. Here are some of our favorites:

“PWC has a great mission, the leadership is genuine.”

“We make a difference in people's lives and mobility.”

“PWC treats me as an individual. They have policies and rules but my needs and circumstances are important to them. They care about their people.”

“PWC communicates frequently with employees to keep us informed. They listen to our cares and concerns.”

“Everyone in leadership encourages new ideas and sponsors the person with the idea.”

We thank our employees for understanding our mission and for playing a vital role in helping thousands of individuals throughout our 20 counties of service. In the past 37 years, we have provided more than 250,000 services to help individuals stay safely in their homes. We couldn’t have done it without our 120+ employees who bring their best to work each day.

Hats off to PWC and our great employees!   

PWC focuses on our real American Heroes…our Veterans

Posted on July 06, 2012 by kim

      I can’t remember a time in American history when sentiments were any higher in support of our Military troops at home and abroad. Individuals across the nation can be heard in numerous public venues, thanking a Veteran for their sacrifices and military service they provided, so we all can enjoy the freedom that we so cherish.

      Not to take away one moment of their well deserved recognition, I’d like to pose the question what is the community at large doing differently to truly welcome our Veterans home?  What will the communities do to make them feel part of the group? What will employers do differently to create jobs that are so needed upon their return? Lastly, what meaningful changes will social service agencies make in their programs to assure that safe and affordable housing will be a reality, not just a dream. Our communities must be willing to “walk the walk” not just “talk the talk” when it comes to absorbing the thousands of Veterans back into communities all over the U.S.A.

     People Working Cooperatively is ready and poised to make a difference, just as they have for the past 37 years. The knowledge and expertise we have gained in helping low income, elderly and disabled home-owners will be utilized to bring about a campaign to assure that no Veterans are forced to live in a home that is not both safe and accessible for their individual needs. 

     If you would like to join the campaign, individually or as a corporation, either through volunteerism or financial support please reach out to PWC today. In today’s world it is easy to get caught in the clutter, hundreds of messages hitting us daily, many of us over-worked and over-whelmed, our Veterans never gave up protecting our freedom, let’s not give up on them by standing on the sidelines pretending someone else will help. Every one of us can make a meaningful difference. Take action today to support PWC’s efforts to support our returning Veterans, as well as the thousands of Veterans we serve that are “Aging in Place”.

- Ron Heinlein, Community Relations Director

A World of Change for PWC Clients

Posted on June 29, 2012 by staci

What a week at PWC!  Over 300 volunteers from World Changers have been battling the heat to repair 26 homes across the Tristate.  These middle school, high school and college students from all over the country have come to Cincinnati to experience missions firsthand by becoming personally involved in rehab and repair projects.

Over the last four years, the partnership between People Working Cooperatively and World Changers has grown tremendously.  What began as a small project of nine homes has almost tripled in size this year. 

Without the volunteers from World Changers, the projects completed this week would have remained on the waiting list, said Kimberly Sullivan, marketing manager of People Working Cooperatively. 

Families like the McCoy’s have been in need of a wheel-chair ramp for their six-year-old, Lillian, for over a year.  Read how volunteers from World Changers made this wish a reality for Lillian and her family in this article from The Cincinnati Enquirer.

PWC's EPP makes a difference!

Posted on June 22, 2012 by kim

PWC's state-sponsored Electric Partnership Program is designed specifically for clients currently enrolled in or income eligible for the Percentage of Income Payment Program (PIPP), an extended payment arrangement that requires regulated gas and electric companies to accept payments based on a percentage of the household income.

Participants work with one of PWC’s staff auditors to develop an energy action plan to help do the following:

• Reduce the need for electricity
• Save on energy expenses
• Reduce growth of PIPP arrearage

One example of how this program works is our client, Mrs. French.

Sixty-nine year old client Mrs. French was battling terminal cancer – fighting to stay well and live life to the fullest. But her fight to live was made more difficult by the discomfort of her home – it was cold in the winter and too warm in the summer. To make matters worse, her electric bills were sky high – often forcing her to make the choice between utilities and life-saving medication. She didn’t know where to turn for help – until she heard about PWC.

Mrs. French had heated her home of 35 years with baseboard heaters, and cooled with window air. She had an average summer and winter kWh usage of 2,739. With services from the Targeted Energy Efficiency (TEE) Program, PWC provided blown attic insulation and fiberglass insulation plus vapor barrier inside the crawl space. Through the Electric Partnership Program (EPP), PWC also installed a new electric furnace, heat pump, and ran ductwork through out her home. We disabled the baseboard heaters and took out the window air conditioners.

With the work that was done on Mrs. French’s home, her summer cooling bill went on average from $300 to $100 a month. When the county inspector surveyed PWC’s finished work, he told Mrs. French what a great job it was and how it had truly improved the quality of life inside her home.

Mrs. French has been told that she has less then two years to live, and is grateful for the improved living conditions that make her more comfortable in her own home.

“I never had cold air blowing in my kitchen,” she said. “You guys did a great job”.

Recognize Us? A New Icon Powers PWC Mission of Helping People

Posted on June 18, 2012 by pwcstaff

Yesterday we switched things up a bit at PWC and introduced a new icon on the People Working Cooperatively Facebook page.

The new icon or avatar features a “P” and a section of the current PWC logo – our signature roof – in the background. PWC Marketing Manager Kim Sullivan explains the change.

“We have been connecting with our clients, volunteers, donors and supporters through Facebook and other social media since 2009,” Kim said. “With all the changes that come through social media platforms, it was time to simplify our look – using the same font and same logo that is part of our brand, just easier to identify. We hope you stay with us and keep in the know on all things PWC.”

Kim said to expect to see the new icon popping up on other platforms, including Twitter, in the coming weeks.

“PWC is growing and changing, connecting with new partnerships and new opportunities,” she said. “But the mission is the same, centered around the many people we serve and the many people who help us serve them. People first – that’s PWC.”

To connect with People Working Cooperatively on Facebook, visit https://www.facebook.com/PeopleWorkingCooperatively. To follow PWC on Twitter, visit https://www.twitter.com/PWCCincy.

Volunteer Opportunities during the Summer

Posted on June 08, 2012 by staci

Summer is a time for fun and sun, but it can also be a time to give back.  Right now, we have approximately 300 requests for help repairing leaky faucets, clogged drains, storm doors, handrails and more.  Our elderly clients rely on volunteers to make these small repairs happen.

Whether you are looking for a one-time opportunity or something more consistent, PWC has something for everyone. 

Field Service Volunteers- This is perfect for handymen or handywomen with time available during the week. We will match your abilities to the repair and maintenance tasks on our request list. You could be paired up with a more experienced volunteer and learn valuable home repair skills you can put to use at your own home. Even if you have only basic knowledge and experience with hand tools, you can provide an immense benefit to our homeowners.

Third Saturdays- On the third Saturday of each month from 8:30 a.m.-noon, PWC is open for volunteers. Individuals, groups and families are welcome! Many kinds of skills are needed from yard work to installing grab bars and handrails, to minor home repairs.

Also, several groups of volunteers are scheduled throughout the summer including the World Changers, ENGAGE, Catholic Heart Workcamp and Franciscans of the Poor.  These groups have volunteers of all ages tackling numerous home maintenance projects that match their skill level.

If you or a group would like to get involved, call volunteer manager, Sara Bourgeois, at (513) 351-7921 or send an email to sarab@pwchomerepairs.org.

Volunteer Crew Spotlight: Hixson

Posted on June 01, 2012 by pwcstaff

If there’s a tough job during Repair Affair, People Working Cooperatively knows exactly who it’s going to: Hixson Architecture Engineering Interiors, the Cincinnati-based firm that has been volunteering with PWC for more than 15 years.

The local company brings its hands-on skills, positive attitude and dozens of volunteers with know-how. The firm has 16 in-house disciplines and so a volunteer crew from Hixson might include electrical, structural and HVAC engineers, along with a few architects.

Rick Hampton, who serves as senior vice president at Hixson, started volunteering with PWC after a neighbor encouraged him to join his volunteer crew roughly 20 years ago. After Rick’s first volunteer event with PWC, he was hooked. A few years later, he approached other leaders at Hixson with the hopes of putting together a Hixson volunteer crew.

Rick says that Hixson never has problems recruiting its employees to volunteer with PWC. 

“Our people enjoy it a lot,” said Rick. “There’s a huge amount of pride in the work we’re able to do. We give back to the community in different ways but we much prefer giving our talents. When you can help someone replace their porch, that’s valuable.”

In addition to organizing a crew for Repair Affair, Hixson supports Prepare Affair and Oscar Night^® America. Most recently, Hixson stepped up to provide PWC with design solutions for its multi-purpose room, which will serve as the new Community Room.

“This is classic Hixson! Professional, skilled and community minded.  A partner which would be the envy of any nonprofit,” said Bill Hitch, development manager at PWC.

 Hixson provided PWC with multiple drawings for contractors to take for permit. Hixson contributed its expertise to People Working Cooperatively at no cost.

 “PWC is just a class act. It’s a great mission and great work,” said Rick.

Aging in Place: More than simply staying at home

Posted on May 25, 2012 by staci

They say, “home is where the heart is.” So what happens when the challenges of aging make home less of a comfort and more of an obstacle. 

In the next 20 years, it is predicted that one in five Americans will be 65 or older.  Soon many will be faced with complications due to aging but will not want to move into a nursing home or assisted living facility.  They prefer to “age in place.”

So what does that mean? Many associate it with continuing to live in the home of your choice safely and independently as you get older.  But it’s more than that. “Aging in place” refers to living where you have lived for years by using products, services, and conveniences which allow you to remain home as circumstances change.  This means you may have to make modifications to your home. 

Some common modifications are:

·     Widening doorways

·     Installing hand-held shower heads and grab bars to assist with balance issues

·     Using lever handles on doors and plumbing fixtures to eliminate the struggle with operating doorknobs and faucets

·     Using “comfort height” toilets to ease the burden of sitting and standing

·     Adapting main floor of the home for one level living: No-step entry, bathroom and bedroom / Kitchen and laundry on main floor

People Working Cooperatively is ahead of the trend.  For 25 years, PWC has been providing these services to low-income, elderly homeowners in order to keep them at home as they age.  PWC recently launched Whole Home to provide home modification services for all people above PWC’s current income guidelines. 

To request a consultation or assessment of Whole Home’s services, please call (513) 482-5100 and ask for Whole Home. Visit wholehome.org for additional information.

30th Annual Repair Affair a Success Thanks to Volunteers, Sponsors

Posted on May 18, 2012 by pwcstaff

More than 800 volunteers came out on a warm, sunny Saturday morning to help 130 homeowners in Greater Cincinnati with critical home repairs and modifications for the 30^th annual Repair Affair organized by People Working Cooperatively.

The jobs were complicated and the volunteers persistent in getting the task done right. Crews installed ramps, poured concrete, installed grab bars and railings, trimmed overgrown hedges and even replaced a porch!

We would like to extend a big thank you to the volunteers, sponsors and staff who made our 30^th annual Repair Affair such a success. We couldn’t do it without you!

This year’s sponsors included title sponsor Home Depot, presenting sponsor the City of Cincinnati, major sponsors Cincinnati Children’s and Prus Construction Co., and many other supporting sponsors.

If you didn’t have a chance to volunteer last weekend, we will have an overflow day this Saturday, May 19. For more information on volunteering with PWC in the future, please call Sara Bourgeois, PWC volunteer manager, at (513) 351-7921.

To learn more about Repair Affair and the clients served, read The Enquirer’s article “Repair Affair is labor of love” that features PWC client Alieen Butler and the Cincinnati Children’s crew who installed her new ramp. 

Weatherization Is Important All Year Round

Posted on May 04, 2012 by pwcstaff

Talk to any weatherization expert and they’ll tell you the same thing: weatherizing your home is important for all seasons of the year.

While many associate the term weatherization with preparing for cold weather, the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), funded by The U.S. Department of Energy, has a different definition. WAP notes that weatherization includes a “wide variety of energy efficiency measures that encompass the building envelope, its heating and cooling systems, its electrical system, and electricity consuming appliances.”

The weatherization and energy conservation folks here at People Working Cooperatively couldn’t agree more. Weatherizing your home means analyzing the building and finding solutions that create a more energy efficient home. It also means searching for any safety hazards posed by your heating/cooling system and correcting those issues.

Call PWC today to see how we can help make your home energy efficient, safe and comfortable. Our weatherization services will make a big difference.

To apply for PWC’s weatherization services, Ohio residents should call (513) 351-7921 and Kentucky residents should call (859) 331-1991. Or you can learn more by visiting www.pwchomerepairs.org/.

Old friend new director!

Posted on April 27, 2012 by kim

Ron Henlein recently joined People Working Cooperatively as director of corporate and community partnerships. A long-time volunteer and formerboard member, he said he is dedicated to helping PWC grow.

In this new position, Henlein will be the conduit between PWC and business and community groups, with an emphasis on increasing PWC’s work in the critical home repairs, modifications and weatherization areas.

"PWC serves the community’s most vulnerable homeowners and helps them remain safely in their homes, where they want to be," Henlein said. "This is important work that has strengthened our community for the past 37 years. I’m excited to help PWC bring their valuable services to even more people in need."

According to Jock Pitts, president of PWC, Henlein brings knowledge and passion to this position.

"Ron already has one career with PWC, as a dedicated volunteer for nearly 30 years," Pitts said. "We’re thrilled that he has decided to take his dedication, deep knowledge of PWC, and his astounding amount of knowledge in marketing and retail management to benefit PWC."

PWC Selected to Help City of Cincinnati Address Lead Problem

Posted on April 20, 2012 by pwcstaff

This week, the City of Cincinnati received news they will be the recipient of a federal grant earmarked to address lead paint problems in local homes and apartments.

People Working Cooperatively is proud to be one of the local nonprofit agencies selected by the City to help address the problem. They are in good company. Other representative agencies include: Price Hill Will, Over-the-Rhine Community Housing, Cincinnati Housing Partners, Working In Neighborhoods and the Northside Community Urban Redevelopment Corp.

Cincinnati has many homes built prior to 1978, when the U.S. banned the use of lead paint. This federal fund will allow the City to address the lead paint problem in the local, older, housing stock.

Lead exposure is dangerous to people of all ages, especially children. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, lead poisoning is the leading environmentally-induced illness in children. Additionally, an estimated 19,000 children under age six in Ohio have unsafe levels of lead in their blood, according to an analysis by the Environmental Working Group. The number includes an estimated 1,400 children in Hamilton County.

“Our last partnership with the City’s Lead Program resulted in 203 homes receiving services,” says Jock Pitts, President of PWC. “We’re excited to be selected to provide more lead services to homeowners in need.”

According to Pitts, the Lead program is a natural extension of PWC’s Whole House Strategy. In the past 37 years, PWC has provided 250,000 services to help individuals stay safely in their homes by providing critical home repairs, modifications, and energy conservation services. All services are critical, not cosmetic, focusing on very basic living conditions that keep a home safe and habitable.

To read more about the City’s announcement, please read the following article from City Beat.

To learn more about how PWC’s services are making a proven difference in our community, read the following article on the results of the first phase of our Cadmus research study. 

How the West was Won--ONA results

Posted on April 13, 2012 by staci

Nearly 450 cowboys and cowgirls saddled up and rode out to the Hilton Netherland Plaza for Oscar Night ® America, Viox Services’ Wild Wild West, on February 26.  For 15 years, guests have walked the red carpet on Oscar Night to raise money for PWC’s Modifications for Mobility program.  This year proved no exception with the event raising $150,000 for the program. 

Once again, WCPO-TV’s Steve Raleigh and Hagit Limor served as emcees for the evening which included silent and live auctions, jailhouse, trick roper, live music and cowboys and saloon girls courtesy of the Old West Festival. 

This year, PWC’s Paddle Raiser raised money for Jerry Alexander, a 66-year-old disabled senior with Cerebral Palsy and profound learning disabilities.  He lives with his sister and caregiver, Louise, and her friend.  Oscar Night ® guests donated a generous $25,000 to install a much-needed handicap accessible bathroom in the basement of his sister’s home. 

PWC owes its deepest appreciation to the event committee, guests and volunteers for making this another terrific event. Event co-chairs were Cynthia Blocksom and Mary “Mike” Calvin.

This event would not have been possible without the support of all our sponsors.  This year’s title sponsor was Viox Services; presenting sponsors Advanced Testing Laboratory, Macy’s, Recker & Boerger; major sponsors Citi, EZ-ACCESS, PNC Bank, Prestige Audio Visual, US Bank and zoneCG; supporting sponsors Fifth Third Bank, Focused Capitol Solutions, Phillips Edison Co. and Towers Watson.  This year’s media sponsors included WCPO-TV, WVXU, Cincinnati Magazine and 55KRC.

Photos from the event can be seen at facebook.com/PeopleWorkingCooperatively. 

Calling All Handy Men and Women – Repair Affair 2012 is Almost Here!

Posted on April 06, 2012 by pwcstaff

Are you handy with a hammer? Do power tools make you drool? Are you in the spirit of lending a helping hand?

PWC's annual Repair Affair is right around the corner, and this year we are celebrating 30 years of springtime repair! On Saturday, May 12 hundreds of volunteers from the Greater Cincinnati area will lend a skilled hand in neighboring areas, spending the day in a home or two to create a safer living environment for residents. PWC staff members and volunteers will work in teams to complete simple and complex repairs while meeting new friends throughout the day.  While these repairs vary, we have a great need for volunteers who have a knack for carpentry, plumbing and electrical work.

We hope to gather more than 800 volunteers to complete repairs at 100 houses within our community, but we cannot do this alone. Individuals, businesses and community groups can volunteer for a day to improve the quality of life for residents who are disabled or struggling to live comfortably in their homes.

If you pride yourself on your plumbing, building and "fix-it-up" skills, this is the day for you! Our volunteer crew leaders are eager to meet a new friend, revisit with old ones and celebrate Repair Affair's 30^th anniversary of helping residents within our community.

Groups must register online by April 23, 2012. Individual volunteers can also register online or call Sara Bourgeois at (513) 351-7921 for more information.

New Renovation Project is in the Works at PWC

Posted on March 30, 2012 by staci

Staff, volunteers, donors, corporate partners and other friends of People Working Cooperatively have a real treat in store for themselves as construction is about to begin on our new Community Room (formerly known as the Multi-purpose Room).  If you have attended either Repair Affair or Prepare Affair, you are all too familiar with this very inadequate meeting room for events.   On or about June 30, 2012 that will change!

Thanks to a number of partners who will be providing in-kind and pro bono services and those who will supply discounted or donated materials, this outdated and not so functional area will be transformed into a very warm and inviting as well as very flexible and functional addition to our facilities.  This project is being funded outside of our normal budget process through a number of corporate and foundation grants for capital projects. 

John Westrup and Andrew Cross from Danis Construction have generously donated their construction management skills to lead this project.  Dan Denier and the entire Denier Electric family have graciously agreed to perform all of the electrical work pro bono.  CinFab will turnkey, at no cost, the HVAC system; Barry Keidel, Keidel Supply, is making a major commitment in the restrooms' fixtures, kitchen area and lighting; and plumbers from the Cincinnati Master Plumbers Association are volunteering their time to handle the plumbing tasks.  Other partners will be brought on to the project as it progresses.  PWC staff will be asked to volunteer their time as well as the need presents itself.

We are extremely excited to have a new area where we properly entertain those who give of their time and talent to make PWC the successful organization the community has come to recognize. Stay tuned!

Whole Home article in Enquirer this Sunday

Posted on March 23, 2012 by kim

PWC and Whole Home will be featured in this Sunday’s business section of the Cincinnati Enquirer.  Reporter Val Prevish recently interviewed PWC’s President Jock Pitts and Jere McIntyre, Director of Modifications and Whole Home, to find out what’s in store for the first year of Whole Home. 

Whole Home is PWC’s newly launched social enterprise providing quality home modification services for people above PWC’s current income limitations.  Money earned through Whole Home will benefit PWC’s Modifications for Mobility program, which has a waiting list of 130 clients.

Whole Home features these modification services:

Ø      Ramp sales and installations of EZ Access Aluminum portable and modular ramps. The construction of wood ramps is also available where it is the preferred option.

Ø      Short term aluminum ramp rentals following surgery, hospice at home, etc.

Ø      Fall prevention sales and installation such as grab bars to assist the customer and complement the décor of the home.

Ø      Bathroom and kitchen modifications to create a safe and accessible environment to accommodate changing lifestyles and circumstances.

Ø      Other home modifications include: Automatic door openers, grip safe flooring, lighting improvements, handrails, chair lifts and stair lifts.

To request a consultation or assessment of Whole Home’s services, please call (513) 482-5100 or visit wholehome.org for additional information.

UPDATED: Read the Sunday news article available now at www.cincinnati.com.

From a Mild Winter to Spring: Weatherizing Your Home

Posted on March 19, 2012 by pwcstaff

Residents of Greater Cincinnati know this past winter has been one for the record books. With spring beginning tomorrow, Tri-State homeowners will need to transition their homes to get ready for the next season.

PWC weatherization expert Eric Donohue offered a few tips to keep in mind:

Utilize functioning windows. This is the best time of year to make use of your home’s windows. When temperatures are moderate and humidity is low, the circulation of air is enough to keep you cool. Ceiling fans and box fans can keep your house comfortable without ratcheting up your energy usage like turning on the AC would.

Find your comfort level. Once you’ve decided to turn your AC on, do your due diligence to find the right temperature setting. Eric recommends setting the dial to 70 degrees to see if that’s comfortable and then challenging yourself to see how high you can raise the setting while remaining comfortable. You may surprise yourself that 75 degrees feels just fine. The only difference will be in your energy usage.

Make the most of Daylight Savings. With more daylight, try to take advantage of the sun and use limited lighting in the early evening hours. If you have outdoor lighting programmed to kick on at a certain time, be sure to set the time back as the sun now sets around 7:50 p.m.

Get out of the laundry room. With warm sunny days here, consider taking advantage of an outdoor clothesline. After the refrigerator, an electric clothes dryer typically uses the most electricity of any appliance in a home. Using a clothesline is the most energy-efficient way to dry your clothes.

Change your furnace filter. Even though its name implies it’s used for the furnace only, you use your furnace filter yearlong. You should check your filter every 30 days and replace it regularly to save on heating and cooling.

Are you interested in learning more on weatherization or PWC’s services? Give us a call to learn more or visit www.pwchomerepairs.org/.

            OHIO (513) 351-7921

            KENTUCKY (859) 331-1991

PWC President Jock Pitts Shares Evaluation Results with WLWT’s Issues

Posted on March 08, 2012 by staci

PWC is once again in the news.  PWC President Jock Pitts and Dr. Jennifer Pitzer from UC’s Economic Center were recently featured on WLWT’s Issues to discuss the impact of PWC’s work in the community.

A recent evaluation conducted by the Economics Center at the University of Cincinnati and Boston-based The Cadmus Group, Inc. shows that People Working Cooperatively (PWC) is increasing the property values of the homeowners they serve, and strengthening the local community at the same time.

The study revealed three key findings that show the broad impact of PWC’s mission in the community.

• Housing Values Increase – the value of a home PWC has served increases 6 to 10 percent; houses in the surrounding neighborhood benefit from a 1 to3 percent increase;

• Student Mobility – students who live in homes served by PWC increase in academic performance because they move less often; 

• Increase in Overall Health of Homeowners – owners of homes served by PWC benefit from increased health and well-being.  After PWC’s services, 44 percent of our clients reported improved health and 15 percent sought medical attention less frequently.

As Jock told Issues host Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney, “People are aware we’re fixing up homes but they don’t know how broadly that impacts our community. It helps all of us. Not just the homeowners we’re serving but everyone in the community.”

The first phase results of the evaluation are very encouraging and really demonstrate a need for PWC’s work in the community. There is more to come as additional research is completed over the next two years.

If you missed Jock’s interview, you can listen to the full podcast online and fast forward to the 14:30 mark. More details regarding the findings of the Cadmus study are also available here.

A PWC Client Story Told Across the United States

Posted on March 02, 2012 by pwcstaff

In January 2012, PWC client Donna Robirds, 67, sat down with Associated Press reporter Dan Sewell in her Mt. Orab home and talked about the mild winter, her tight fixed income and her gratuity for People Working Cooperatively.

Donna lives in Appalachia, a region that stretches through 13 states from northeastern Mississippi to southern New York. It’s also a region that has lagged behind the rest of the U.S. economically and is seeing its number of residents aged 65 and older increase. In fact, 1 of every 5 Appalachia residents is 65 or older, a benchmark that the rest of the United States won’t reach until 2030.

Donna talked with the reporter about how she makes do with her fixed income and how PWC stepped in to make sure her home was ready for winter. PWC added insulation, cleaned vents, serviced her furnace, and replaced her refrigerator with a more energy-efficient model. In short, the help was vital.

PWC President Jock Pitts also talked with the reporter on the increased need that PWC is seeing for its services. Jock shared that calls have skyrocketed over the past two years, from 40,000 calls for help in 2009 to 66,000 in 2011.

The news article, which was posted to the AP wire last week and ran in newspapers across the country, also included experts from the Ohio Department of Aging and Miami University Gerontology Center.

Here at PWC, we’re thankful to Donna for sharing her story as an example of what is happening across Appalachia. And we’re thankful to our supporters who help us afford to help clients like Donna across all the counties we serve.

Here’s a link to the article in case you missed it last week: “Appalachia's aging population is rising fast.”

Photo credit: AP Photo/Al Behrman

PWC Seeking Weatherization Clients in Kentucky, Ohio

Posted on February 17, 2012 by pwcstaff

PWC offers several services to help homeowners and renters take control of their energy usage and save on their utility bills. And during most winters, PWC has folks calling at all hours to seek out those services. That’s because many homeowners see their energy usage (as well as their utility bills) increase during the cold winter months as they try to heat their home.

But with this year’s mild winter, PWC Vice President of Operations Nina Creech says PWC needs more weatherization clients.

“People aren’t heating their homes like they usually need to during the cold months of the year,” she said. “So they’re not seeing their energy usage increase and don’t feel compelled to call. But that’s the wrong mindset to have.”

Creech says that a mild winter shouldn’t stop folks from seeking out PWC’s weatherization and energy efficiency services. In many cases, PWC can help reduce home energy expenditures by as much as 20 percent, while improving the safety, comfort and living conditions of residents.

“You can still save money and energy, even when the winter weather is mild,” she said.

To apply for PWC’s weatherization services, Ohio residents should call (513) 351-7921 and Kentucky residents should call (859) 331-1991. Or you can learn more by visiting www.pwchomerepairs.org/.

Did We Mention the Food at Oscar Night?

Posted on February 10, 2012 by staci

There are so many things to look forward to at Oscar Night® and the food is no exception.  Each year, the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza provides Oscar Night guests with a high quality, gourmet dining experience that never disappoints.  This is largely in part to the culinary genius of Todd Kelly, Executive Chef and Director of Food & Beverage.

While Todd has been at the head of the hotel’s culinary department, Orchids has been named Cincinnati’s Top Restaurant in 2011 by Zagat Survey and One of the Top 50 Restaurants in the U.S. by Open Table in 2010. Todd was also named a Hilton Hotel Signature Chef, one of only six in the U.S., in 2010. Orchids was also named number one restaurant in the city by Cincinnati Magazine in 2011, 2010 & 2009, received a five-star rating from The Cincinnati Enquirer, and maintained a prestigious Four-Diamond rating from AAA.  Todd was also named 2011 Chef of the Year by the American Culinary Federation. 

Todd is in good company with pastry chef Megan Ketover.  Megan recently competed on this season of Bravo’s “Top Chef’s Just Desserts” and made it more than half way through the competition. 

Todd, Megan and the rest of the Hilton’s culinary team have come up the perfect southwestern themed menu for this year’s dinner.

    Salad- Assorted bitter greens and lime cilantro vinaigrette, citrus segments, avocado and smoked paprika spiced walnuts

   Entrée- Duet of salmon and grilled sirloin accompanied by roasted corn and green chili gallete, tomatillo salsa, asparagus, marinated red pepper and pickled red onion.

   Dessert- Dark chocolate S’More Tart with Graham Cracker Crust, Toasted White chocolate marshmallow and Passionfruit Gekee.

Make sure you don’t miss this fabulous meal by purchasing your Oscar Night tickets today.

Supporting PWC’s Oscar Night® America 2012

Posted on February 03, 2012 by pwcstaff

February 26 marks the 15^th Annual Oscar Night^® America, benefitting People Working Cooperatively’s Modifications for Mobility program.

And even if you aren’t able to walk the red carpet, there are plenty of ways to help make Viox Service's Wild Wild West Oscar Night America a success!

Participate in the Online Auction starting Monday

PWC will be hosting an online auction starting Monday, Feb. 6 and closing Friday, Feb. 24. Items that vary from vacation getaways to donated items guaranteed to delight and surprise, and you’re encouraged to start the bidding! Visit www.biddingforgood.com/PWCoscars.

And be sure to “refer a friend” to the online auction. The individual who refers the most friends will win a free massage at a local massage studio!

Rock a Bowtie

PWC is proudly working with former Bengals linebacker Dhani Jones and his philanthropic organization, BowTie Cause, on a unique bowtie for PWC. The $57 bowties are available for purchase online. Just scroll down to “buy your Oscar Night America 2012 Tickets” and select “Dhani Jones bowtie.” Order yours today to support PWC!

Spread the Word

Even if you’re unable to attend, you may have friends and family who still don’t know about the only official Oscar Night party in Cincinnati! Be sure to spread the word about Oscar Night America benefitting People Working Cooperatively while tickets are still available!

Giddy up for the 2012 Oscar Night America fundraiser

Posted on January 27, 2012 by staci

Saddle up partner…it’s Oscar time!  PWC’s Wild Wild West themed Oscar Night ® America is less than a month away.  PWC is the only organization to bring the real Academy Awards^® to Cincinnati live on a big screen!

This marks the 15^th year that PWC has hosted this five-star evening with proceeds benefiting PWC’s Modifications for Mobility program.  Guests will be treated with a red carpet welcome, live Western-themed entertainment, gourmet meal, auction prizes, calf-roping station, trick rope artist and more.

Longtime supporter, Viox Services, is this year’s title sponsor.  Presenting sponsors include Advanced Testing Laboratory Inc., Macy’s and Recker & Boerger; additional sponsors include EZ-ACCESS, PNC Bank, Prestige Audio Visual, US Bank, zoneCG, Fifth Third Bank, Focused Capitol Solutions LLC, Phillips Edison & Company, Towers Watson, WCPO-TV, Cincinnati Magazine and WVXU.

Tickets for this year’s event, Viox Services’ Wild Wild West, are available by calling (513) 351-7921 or online at http://www.pwchomerepairs.org/events/annual-main-events/oscar-night.aspx.  In addition to attending this year’s event, there are other ways to get involved including purchasing raffle tickets, bidding online for auction items and buying an exclusive PWC bowtie courtesy of Dhani Jones’ BowTie Cause.

Purchase Raffle Tickets for Your Chance to Win $5,000!
Buy chances to win: Grand Prize of $5,000; or Second Prize a family four pack to the KY Horse Park and Keeneland, dinner and overnight accommodations at Lexington’s Griffin Gate Resort; or Third Prize a romance package at the Hilton, including dinner and a show!

Chances are $25 each/five for $100. Only 1,000 tickets will be sold! The drawing will take place at 10 p.m. at the event, but you need not be present to win! Buy tickets here.

Bid on Amazing Auction Items Prior to the Event
Get a head start on the bidding by visiting our www.biddingforgood.com/PWCoscars from Feb. 6-Feb. 24.

Sport an Exclusive PWC bow tie from Bow Tie Cause and former Bengal Dhani Jones
Support PWC and wear a one of a kind bow tie made by former Bengal linebacker Dhani Jones and Bowtiecause.org exclusively for PWC. Buy your Bow tie now for $57 and it will be mailed to you so you can wear it to Oscar Night! Dhani’s team will even beat the event to help you tie it.  Purchase your tie here.

Whole Home: A Service of PWC Featured in the Business Courier

Posted on January 20, 2012 by pwcstaff

During the PWC Annual Meeting in October, People Working Cooperatively President Jock Pitts introduced Whole Home to the audience. Whole Home is a new unique home modifications service offered by PWC. It provides (and is compensated for) quality home modification services for people above PWC’s current income limitations. Whole Home provides services and products such as fall prevention aids, aluminum access ramps, accessible bath, kitchen and other necessary modifications and repairs to create a safe environment.

Today, the Business Courier featured Whole Home in its print edition. Jock Pitts sat down with reporter Lucy May to explain the new service and how it creates additional funding for PWC’s nonprofit Modifications for Mobility program, which has more than 125 clients on the waiting list.

Whole Home is a way for PWC to support an underserved population in need. And it supports PWC’s overall mission of keeping people safe in their homes.

Take a minute to learn more about Whole Home by reading today’s article, checking out our Whole Home website or by calling our Whole Home line at (513) 482-5100.

Weatherization Tips of 2012

Posted on January 06, 2012 by staci

Did you know making small changes in 2012 can make huge difference in the year to come? Now that the holiday season has come to an end and January is here, PWC would like to offer our expertise while the temperature drops.

People Working Cooperatively has been helping the Greater Cincinnati community for 37 years, and provides more than 13,600 services a year to low income elderly, disabled, and other homeowners. Over the years, PWC has become an expert in home repairs, modifications, maintenance, and weatherization. Now that winter is here to stay, PWC would like to offer free weatherization tips to help you and your family this year.

Steve Creed, PWC’s weatherization expert, offers these tips for 2012:

o Purchase insulated drapes and use energy efficient light bulbs. Compact fluorescents are best

o Put weather-stripping around windows and doors to make your home more airtight

o If you do not have newer-type replacement windows, put plastic over your windows. Window kits are available at most hardware or discount stores

o Televisions and lamps can generate false thermostat readings. To avoid false readings, do not place televisions or lamps close to your thermostat

o To save energy, remember to turn your thermostat down five degrees at night or when no one is home

o Check your furnace filters. Hold them up to a bright light, if it’s difficult to see light its time to clean or replace them

o To keep your furnace in tip-top shape in 2012, replace filters every 30 – 60 days 

To learn more on PWC weatherization tips and other services, or call 513.351.7921.  

Happy New Year’s from People Working Cooperatively

Posted on December 28, 2011 by pwcstaff

If you are looking for entertainment on New Year’s Day, tune into WNKU for eTown at 5 p.m. featuring PWC grant writer Stefan Olson. Last year, Stefan won the E-cheivement award for his work with Prepare Affair and Repair Affair. The nationally broadcasted radio show will be airing the episode with Stefan on Sunday, Jan. 1 on WNKU-FM (89.7).

With New Year’s Eve only a few days away, people everywhere are considering their resolutions for 2012. What’s your resolution? To lose weight, get organized, quit a bad habit? How about adding more volunteering to your life?

At PWC, we are always looking for more skilled volunteers. Folks who know how to fix the sink, are handy with a hammer and can be seen from time to time wearing a tool belt. Because our trained professional craftspeople are busy with many requests for service, skilled volunteers are especially needed to help us get the job done. In 2011, we received 65,000 calls for assistance, and in 2012, we could certainly use more skilled hands so we can help more neighbors in need.

For those considering adding more volunteering to their lives, PWC would love to hear from you. Give us a call Tuesday morning to get the New Year off to a great start!

And Happy News Year’s from PWC!

Client receives much-needed heat from PWC

Posted on December 21, 2011 by staci

On December 11, it was 17 degrees and Rebecca’s furnace refused to kick on.  Rebecca lives alone and has a visual impairment.  She was afraid she’d have to leave her home to stay with family due to the frigid cold.  More importantly, she was afraid her pipes would freeze and burst.  After placing a call to PWC after hours, she was contacted by Mark, a project manager at PWC, about her heating problem. 

Mark arrived in a timely fashion and conducted a thorough inspection.  She described him as “the most friendly and polite gentleman”.  He explained the problem very clearly.  He worked quickly and quietly and then cleaned up his work area when he was finished.  Rebecca was very impressed with Mark’s skills and professionalism. 

Upon his departure, he maintained a professional manner and said “PWC is merely a phone call away” if she needed further help.

“I’m thrilled,” said Rebecca. “I currently have heat, and I’m warm and cozy thanks to Mark and PWC.”

In 2010, PWC helped 1,255 very low-income, disabled or elderly homeowners like Rebecca stay warm in the harsh winter months by replacing or repairing their furnaces.  See how you or someone you know can qualify for services or call (513) 351-7921. 

Enquirer “Look Who’s Talking” Talks to Jock Pitts

Posted on December 13, 2011 by

People Working Cooperatively President Jock Pitts recently took a moment to talk with The Cincinnati Enquirer about PWC and the good news we received from our independent evaluation.

The evaluation, which was conducted by the Economics Center at the University of Cincinnati, along with Boston-based The Cadmus Group, showed the impact PWC is making in the community. Jock was able to share with the Enquirer that PWC’s programs are increasing property values of the homeowners they serve, and strengthening local communities.

“It is significant to have research that demonstrates how PWC delivers long-lasting value to the entire community,” Jock said. “In today’s housing crisis, we learned that PWC’s program has improved housing values (6-10 percent) for the homes we serve as well as neighboring homes (2-4 percent).”

If you missed the article in Sunday’s paper, you can check it out online. And if you’re interested in learning more about the independent evaluation, you can read more from the Economics Center at the University of Cincinnati.

Clients like Danny need your help

Posted on November 22, 2011 by staci

Danny, a 57 year-old Vietnam veteran living in Colerain Township believes he has received a new lease on life because of the efforts of People Working Cooperatively.

Once very active, Danny's life has become increasingly more sedentary after he was diagnosed with MS two years ago.  Danny recalls the struggles he faced “having to (scoot) up and down the steps on my rear end…I couldn’t get out of the house at all”.  Conditions for Danny worsened when he began to lose his eyesight to a rare illness known as Best disease.  Danny’s fellow veterans, who are also disabled, were not able to visit him because his house was not accessible and Danny was forced into isolation.  “My life just stopped”, Danny said .

This all changed when Danny came across an article in the newspaper about PWC’s weatherization program.  It was during this weatherization program that Danny found out about People Working Cooperatively’s Modifications for Mobility program.  “I was just tickled when I found out I could get a ramp”, said  Danny.  This ramp  ALLOWS  Danny to leave the house and  enables his friends to come and visit him at his home.  “PWC has given me my life back”.

Last year, PWC helped 16,000 people just like Danny who were just looking for a hand up, not a hand out.  Our typical clients earn approximately $13,000 a year and suffer from illness, disabilities, and the struggles of aging.  Your support can give them mobility and give them back their life.

Any gift, no matter how small, can change a life like Danny’s.  By making a gift to the Annual Campaign, you will directly help your disabled neighbors live their lives with dignity.  Please donate today.

PWC’s Prepare Affair Comes to Richmond, Indiana

Posted on November 18, 2011 by

For the second weekend in a row, People Working Cooperatively volunteers and staff will make a difference in the lives of elderly and disabled homeowners.

But this time, PWC is working in Richmond, Indiana, a city in Wayne County that’s about an hour and a half northwest of Cincinnati. 2011 marks the second year that PWC has hosted Prepare Affair in Richmond, and we’re hoping the fall volunteer event continues to grow!

PWC President Jock Pitts told the Palladium-Item, “This year, we have more homeowners signed up and we are looking for volunteers to get involved.” Pitts told the Richmond newspaper that we’re looking to prepare 30 homes for winter this Saturday, Nov. 19.

Sponsors for the Richmond-based Prepare Affair are Vectren and First Bank Richmond. Similar to this past week in Greater Cincinnati, volunteers will be raking leaves and cleaning gutters to help homeowners in need prepare their homes for winter.

Photo to the left: Volunteers Maggie and RJ Keller, client Mary Porch and her grandson Max, and PWC volunteer Jere McIntyre smile for the camera after raking leaves during the 2010 Prepare Affair in Richmond.

Study Shows PWC’s Positive Impact for Homeowners, Neighbors

Posted on November 11, 2011 by

In the midst of Prepare Affair, People Working Cooperatively President Jock Pitts took a moment to share the results of the first phase of our Cadmus research study with local news radio 91.7 WVXU.

The recent evaluation conducted by the Economics Center at the University of Cincinnati, along with Boston-based The Cadmus Group, showed the impact PWC is making in the community. The study shows when PWC did its work in one of its three core areas – emergency repairs, energy conservation or modifying a house for someone who's disabled – the value of the home increased 6 to 10 percent.

In addition, Jock informed WVXU reporter Mark Heyne that the homes PWC serves are not the only ones that increase in value.

“The exhaustive research learned that homes surrounding it in the neighborhood increased between 2 and 4 percent," said Jock.

With PWC’s long history in the Greater Cincinnati community, we were delighted to read the findings from the Cadmus research study that shows PWC’s work has positively affected the Tri-State area.

The results from the Cadmus research study are inspiration for us to continue to make a difference. We will continue providing professional, critical home repairs, weatherization, modification, and maintenance services to help residents stay safely in their homes.

To read more on Jock’s interview with 91.7 WVXU, visit wvxu.org or tune into WVXU this Saturday to hear his full interview.

“Never doubt that a small group of committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead

Prepare Affair Deadline Approaching Next Week

Posted on October 21, 2011 by

The deadline to register for this year’s Prepare Affair is quickly approaching! Next Friday, Oct. 28 is the last day to register for the 2011 Prepare Affair so be sure to register today!

You can register online with just the clicks of a few buttons. If you’ve never volunteered with People Working Cooperatively during Prepare Affair, feel free to check out our Facebook photos from last year to get a sense of the day. Volunteers will prepare more than 1,000 homes for winter by raking leaves, cleaning gutters and performing other winter prep tasks.

Prepare Affair will take place in Southwest Ohio, Northern Kentucky and portions of Indiana on Saturday, Nov. 12. We’re also holding Prepare Affair in Richmond, Indiana on November 19.

Sign up today to make a difference in the lives of your elderly neighbors. Have questions? Here are phone numbers for the three states we serve:

Ohio – (513) 351-7921

Kentucky – (859) 331-1991

Indiana – (800) 242-1105

See you at the 24^th Annual Prepare Affair!

Annual Recognition Celebration a success

Posted on October 14, 2011 by kim

Each year, PWC invites volunteers, donors, corporate partners, politicians and funders to reflect and celebrate its achievements at our Annual Recognition Celebration.  On Oct. 13 we celebrated another successful year, with an event at Xavier's Cintas Center.

 PWC President Jock Pitts pointed out two key announcements, the first phase of our Cadmus research study and our new social enterprise.  The three key findings of the Cadmus study are:

• Housing Values Increase – the value of a home PWC has served increases 6%-10%; houses in the surrounding neighborhood benefit from a 1%-3% increase;

• Student Mobility – students who live in homes served by PWC increase in academic performance because they move less often; 

• Increase in Overall Health of Homeowners - owners of homes served by PWC benefit from increased health and well-being.

With the more than 130 PWC stakeholders in attendance, Jock made the exciting announcement of the new name of PWC’s social enterprise, Whole Home.

This new endeavor will provide many of the same services PWC already offers to its low-income clients for free at a cost to people who do not meet our current income qualifications.   

These services will include:

•         Ramp Sales and Installation

•         Short Term Aluminum Ramp Rentals

•         Fall Prevention Sales and Installation

•         Bathroom Modifications

The bottom line is that Whole Home will be an extension of PWC’s mission.  It will help PWC to continue to provide essential repairs and services so that low-income, elderly and disabled homeowners can remain in their homes, living independently for many years to come.

All of Jock’s remarks will be available in detail next week on our website so be sure to check back soon! Thanks to all for making the Annual Recognition Celebration a success!

Our 2011 Volunteers of the Year: Cynthia Blocksom, Bob Wells and Jo Soudrette

Calling All Volunteers: Prepare Affair is Back

Posted on October 07, 2011 by

Prepare Affair is back, and People Working Cooperatively needs your help. We are calling on volunteers of all ages to lend a hand during our 24^th Annual Prepare Affair event on Sunday, Nov.12 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Volunteers will prepare more than 1,000 homes in Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and portions of Indiana for the long winter months ahead.  We need volunteers to rake leaves, clean gutters and perform other winter preparation tasks for their elderly neighbors. Don’t worry about needing extensive skills – most everyone can volunteer and make a difference during Prepare Affair!

Last year was our biggest Prepare Affair to date: in fact, we had more than 3,500 individuals, business and community groups join together to help our elderly neighbors. With your help, this year can be even bigger! 

Register online by October 28. Volunteers with interest or experience in cleaning gutters are strongly encouraged to apply.

There is an optional $10 donation per individual or $20 per family to cover Prepare Affair expenses. Community members interested in volunteering who cannot attend this Prepare Affair can volunteer the following Saturday, Nov. 19 in Richmond, Ind.

For more information, contact Sara Bourgeois at (513) 351-7921. Or if you're interested in volunteering in Indiana, contact PWC at 800-242-1105.

Volunteer Profile: Bob Wells and Jo Soudrette

Posted on September 30, 2011 by staci

Bob Wells and Jo Soudrette both began volunteering as field service volunteers at PWC around the same time in 2008.

Before retiring, Bob was a product development scientist at P&G. He heard of PWC through his church and wanted to volunteer.  Before working as a field service volunteer, Bob volunteered at Repair and Prepare Affairs with his church for 12 years.  Bob says he is motivated to volunteer because now that he is retired he has the time to give back and is able to help people in need.

In Jo Soudrette’s case, she did not wait until retirement to get involved.  Jo currently works as a critical care nurse. She knew she wanted to volunteer but wasn’t sure how or where.  Jo found PWC through VolunteerMatch.com. Jo works various shifts at a hospital and has one day off a week, which she spends volunteering for PWC.

When Jo started volunteering with PWC, she didn’t have any experience with repairs but had a strong desire to learn and help others.  Her can-do attitude proves it is never too late to learn something new. 

On a weekly basis, Jo and Bob go out to the homes of low-income, elderly and disabled PWC clients and make repairs to keep them remaining safe and independent in their homes.  Both Jo and Bob say their proudest volunteer moments come when they successfully complete a project knowing it is going to help make someone’s life a little bit better.

“Because of their repair skills and dedication, many senior homeowners are served far beyond PWC's normal scope,” says Sara Bourgeois, volunteer manager.

Bob and Jo will be awarded with PWC’s Volunteer of the Year honor at our Annual Recognition Celebration on Thursday, October 13 at the Cintas Center at Xavier University.  This evening celebration is a forum for PWC to reflect on its achievements since last year and share its plans for the future with stakeholders.   The reception begins at 4:30 p.m. and the program will start at 5:30 p.m.  Appetizers and cocktails are included.  Tickets are available for $40.  Learn more about the Annual Recognition Celebration by clicking here.  Reservations can be made by calling Lara at (513) 351-7921.

Congratulations Bob and Jo!

Keep Safe at Home: PWC Offers Falls Prevention Tips

Posted on September 23, 2011 by

Did you know that today – September 23 – is the first day of fall? It’s also National Falls Prevention Awareness Day.

Because of the work that PWC has done in the Greater Cincinnati community for the past 36 years, we have become experts in keeping people safe in their homes. We understand what physical changes need to be made to help residents – especially those with mobility limitations – reduce their risk of a fall inside the home.

PWC helps local homeowners by installing ramps and grab bars, tightening loose carpets or even modifying bathrooms and kitchens. If you’re looking for additional ways to help reduce the chance of falls within the home, here are some tips from PWC employees John Hay and Jere McIntyre.

 --  Remove boxes, newspapers, electrical cords and phone cords from walkways.

 --  Move coffee tables, magazine racks and plant stands from high-traffic areas.

 --  Secure loose rugs with double-faced tape, tacks or a slip-resistant backing — or remove loose rugs from your home.

 --  Repair loose, wooden floorboards and carpeting right away.

 --  Install grab bars in tub and shower areas, next to toilets, and in kitchens.

 --  Add handrails on both sides of the stairs

 --  Store clothing, dishes, food and other necessities within easy reach.

 --  Immediately clean spilled liquids, grease or food.

 --  Use nonskid floor wax.

 --  Use nonslip mats in your bathtub or shower.

 --  Place night lights in your bedroom, bathroom and hallways.

 --  Place a lamp within reach of your bed for middle-of-the-night needs.

 --  Make clear paths to light switches that aren't near room entrances. Consider trading traditional switches for glow-in-the-dark or illuminated switches.

 --  Turn on the lights before going up or down stairs.

 --  Store flashlights in easy-to-find places in case of power outages

Thanks go John and Jere for their insight and expertise! Both are certified aging-in-place specialists and help lead the modifications program here at PWC.

New social enterprise program in works

Posted on September 16, 2011 by kim

Have you heard the news? PWC will soon launch a social enterprise arm of our current modifications for mobility program that will make our modification services available to all who need help, for a sliding-scale fee.

PWC’s social enterprise will provide an urgent, unmet need in the community. People faced with a sudden disability, such as rehabilitative surgery, need a trusted, reliable, experienced expert to call who can quickly modify a home with a ramp, grab bars, expanded doorways, etc, - to allow a person to remain living independently in their homes in a safe, sound environment.

Because PWC is a non-profit that operates as a full-service construction company, the full range of skill sets and services is already in place.

The social enterprise will be a division of PWC. Leading the effort is President Jock Pitts, long-time volunteer Jere McIntyre, who is now an employee of PWC and director of Modifications for Mobility, and John Hay, Modifications Department Manager.

PWC is a winner of the Xavier Launch-A-Business Competition. Xavier has been instrumental in assessing the feasibility of the social enterprise, particularly Dr. Art Shriberg, Joe Carter, and Tom Neal.

Multiple local healthcare organizations have provided valuable insight and knowledge. PWC will enter the market carefully and slowly to ensure that we do not negatively impact our existing non-profit business. PWC plans to “crawl,” “walk,” then, “run.” We expect to serve between 20-30 clients during the first phase in the fourth quarter of 2011.

PWC already has the experience, expertise and reputation to provide modification services. Check back for updates as we unveil this yet-to-be-named venture!

PWC Receives New Funds, Serves as Excellent Steward

Posted on September 09, 2011 by

Over the past few months, People Working Cooperatively has received a handful of grants to use for critical home repairs and modifications. Organizations like Middletown Community Foundation, Scripps Howard Foundation and the Dearborn Community Foundation have elected to give funds to PWC to help us help others.

We recognize that the dollars PWC spends are not our own. That’s why we are so mindful of how we use those precious funds. We make sure that we apply our funds as wisely as possible. And it helps to have Bill Brammer serve as our chief financial officer. Bill was recently announced as the Business Courier CFO of the Year in the Small Nonprofit category, and PWC is incredibly thankful to have him.

As PWC President Jock Pitts told the Business Courier, “Bill’s philosophy is that the funds we receive are not our money – they are to be used prudently to serve our clients. So we must be excellent stewards of those dollars.”

We are thankful for community partners who understand and appreciate our mission at PWC. And we continue to appreciate Bill’s guidance.

PWC Partners with Community to Weatherize Homes in Avondale

Posted on September 02, 2011 by staci

PWC focuses on weatherization and energy efficiency year-round, but with fall on the horizon many of us will soon be thinking about our energy bills and ways to save. 

Volunteers helped PWC clients get an early start.  On August 27, 40 volunteers (guided by PWC staff) weatherized six homes for PWC clients in Avondale as part of Avondale in Action-Weatherization 101. Volunteers were taught basic weatherization skills by PWC staff and then went out to homes of PWC clients in Avondale to apply those skills.  Volunteers sealed ductwork with mastic, replaced storm doors, wrapped water heaters, cleaned out return vents and insulated a crawl space. 

After the jobs were completed, volunteers were invited back to the zoo for a free after party.   People Working Cooperatively teamed up with The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens, The Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance, LISC and Americorps NCCC on this successful volunteer effort.

Thank you to all our volunteers and partners for making this possible. Be sure to check out photos from Avondale in Action-Weatherization 101 on our Facebook page. 

Looking for volunteer opportunities?  Save the date for Prepare Affair on Saturday, November 12.  During this annual PWC event, nearly 3,000 volunteers rake leaves and clean gutters for elderly homeowners in the Tri-state area.  Click here to learn more.

A Big Thank You To Our Loyal Fans and Voters

Posted on August 26, 2011 by

August 2011 has been an interesting month for People Working Cooperatively. For the first time, we were selected by The Home Depot Foundation to compete in a nationwide Facebook contest against three other nonprofits. PWC had a chance at winning a $25,000 gift card that we would use on critical home repairs and modifications for local homeowners.

The competition has been fierce and somewhat of a whirlwind for us. And while we’re hovering at 2,500 votes with the first place contender having surpassed 8,000, we are incredibly thankful for all our loyal fans and voters. PWC was honored to even be part of this competition, and it’s supporters of PWC who helped us get this far!

Thank you to all those who voted daily, who encouraged their family and friends to vote, and who helped spread the word about the great work that PWC does in the 20 counties we serve.

We appreciate your time and effort!

Good things happening this week at PWC

Posted on August 19, 2011 by staci

Good things have been happening at PWC this week.  On Monday, 112 golfers hit the course for 7^th Annual HealthCare Friends Golf Outing benefitting People Working Cooperatively.  We are happy to announce that we raised $20,000 for our Modifications for Mobility program!

It was certainly a gorgeous afternoon and plenty of fun was had by all.  Congratulations to the following winners:

Overall Winner- Trustaff

2^nd place- Baker Concrete

Longest drive- Terri Wordie

Closest to the pin- Chris S. Bell

Longest putt- Kevin Trent

A special thank you goes to our Silver sponsors, Hospice of Southwest Ohio and Towers Watson, and the Heritage Golf Club in Mason for their excellent hospitality. We also owe many thanks to the volunteers and members of HealthCare Friends.  They provided us with a wonderful opportunity to introduce PWC to new faces and raise much-needed dollars for disabled homeowners in

the Tri-State area. Be sure to check out our photos on Facebook!

The good news continued on Thursday evening when our CFO, Bill Brammer, won 2011 CFO of the Year in the small nonprofit category.  This honor is given by the Business Courier annually.  We are so proud of Bill’s hard work and his dedication to PWC.  Read more about Bill Brammer.  Congratulations Bill!

Coming Soon: The 2010 PWC Annual Report

Posted on August 12, 2011 by

Our 2010 annual report will begin arriving in mailboxes across the Tri-State next week! In putting together the report, it became obvious that 2010 was a phenomenal year for PWC. We saw many successes and passed significant agency milestones.

 -- PWC was recently awarded several grants that will allow us to help more people in the areas we serve from Dearborn County all the way to Hamilton, Ohio.

 -- PWC entered the Xavier University "Launch-a-Business Competition" only to be announced as one of the eight winners in the inaugural X-LAB competition. PWC received free consulting services from Williams College of Business at XU to help launch a new social enterprise.

 -- One of our very own, Stefan Olson, won a national award – the E-chievement Award. Stefan was featured on the national radio program eTown for his work in starting Prepare Affair.

 -- The U.S. Department of Energy awarded People Working Cooperatively a $1.5 million grant for home weatherization work in Ohio. It is the first time PWC has received direct funding from the federal government – putting us amongst an elite group across the nation to receive such a grant.

We hope that you enjoy reading our successes from 2010 as much as we enjoyed putting the annual report together. Our 35^th year in operation was certainly one to remember!

Happy reading!

PWC Competing for $25,000 from The Home Depot Foundation in August Facebook Contest

Posted on August 05, 2011 by kim

We have exciting news for the month of August.  PWC has been selected as a finalist for Aprons in Action, The Home Depot Foundation’s unique Facebook voting program, and now has the opportunity to win a $25,000 gift card from The Home Depot.  We are competing against three other nonprofit organization from across the country. Voting has already begun and runs through August 31 at www.facebook.com/homedepotfoundation.  CLICK HERE TO VOTE!

There is even greater potential if we win first place in August.  The organization with the most votes this month will win the $25,000 prize, and be in the running for the grand prize of $250,000 at the end of the year-long program.  The runner-up organizations from each month will receive $5,000 in The Home Depot gift cards.

During the Aprons in Action Contest, which began in April 2011, 11 monthly winners will be selected.  In March 2012, Facebook fans will have the chance to help one of those 11 winners win the $250,000 grand prize.  The organization that receives the second and third most votes will receive $150,000 and $100,000 from The Home Depot, respectively.

You can help by voting every day for People Working Cooperatively and encouraging your friends and family to vote.  Post a link to www.facebook.com/homedepotfoundation in your Facebook status and/or send a tweet via Twitter.  Every vote makes a difference!

PWC Calls for Weatherization Clients this Summer

Posted on July 29, 2011 by

With high summer temperatures here to stay, People Working Cooperatively is encouraging Tri-State homeowners to seek out its weatherization services to help reduce energy usage and energy costs. PWC offers year-round weatherization services that reduce home energy expenditures by as much as 20 percent, while improving the safety, comfort and living conditions of residents.

PWC’s weatherization services are available in the 20 counties PWC serves in Southwest Ohio, Northern Kentucky and Southeast Indiana. And while weatherization services are available throughout the year, PWC has openings for weatherization clients during August.

To see if you’re eligible, call PWC at (513) 351-7921 or check the general qualifications online.

Keep cool this summer while keeping your energy usage at minimum!

 Photo credit: FOX19.com

Volunteer Spotlight: Tonia Murphy

Posted on July 25, 2011 by kim

Volunteers are vital to PWC's success.  PWC means something different to each one.  Meet Tonia Murphy.  Tonia Murphy has been volunteering for PWC for the last three years.  Her first experience with us was when she was working with a group from P&G during Prepare Affair.  After that experience she was hooked.  She decided she had to learn more about PWC.  A quick call to the Volunteer Department and now here she is.  Tonia volunteers on PWC’s Oscar Night Committee.  She has sold raffle tickets at the event and coordinated the after party.  She also volunteers for Prepare Affair and Repair Affair.  Recently, Tonia was named the chair of our Young Professionals (YP) Group. We are excited to have her energy and enthusiasm on this project.  Be on the look out for PWC / YP events shortly. 

In her professional life, Tonia is an education consultant at Children’s Hospital. She develops and facilitates training courses for employees of the hospital.  When asked what she likes most about PWC she says working with everyone.  The passion and motivation she feels from the other volunteers and staff is contagious.  She loves to see people from all across the city come together for a common cause.  Her proudest moment at PWC is when she climbed onto a roof to clean a homeowner’s gutters during Prepare Affair.  “I was scared to death!” she says. “But seeing the finished project and then the client’s reaction (she was so thankful) – that’s what did it for me.”

“I like to volunteer in general,” Tonia shares. “I believe in what we are doing (at PWC) helping elderly stay in their homes.  I remember seeing my Grandma struggle.  There is no PWC where she lives. Without family around, she would be suffering.  I would encourage anyone to check PWC out by volunteering for one of the events.  That’s how I got started.  I only spent eight hours that day working, but I know I made a difference.”

Want to join our YP group? Please contact Lara Radkey at (513) 351-7921or email radkeyl@pwchomerepairs.org. 

PWC To Offer Home Modifications For Disabled

Posted on July 15, 2011 by

People Working Cooperatively is pleased to be featured in the current edition of the Business Courier about our exciting new social enterprise that will be launched in the Fall. Click here to read the full article.

This new social enterprise will provide quality home modification services for people above PWC’s current income limitations. The profit from these services will create needed additional funding for PWC’s non-profit Modifications for Mobility Program. 

The journey to develop a social enterprise began in September 2010, when PWC was selected as one of eight winners of Xavier University’s X-LAB competition.

We’ll share more on the new social enterprise as we get closer to our official launch, which is slated for the Fall.

In the meantime, if you have any questions about this new program, please contact Jere McIntyre, our Modifications for Mobility Director at (513) 351-7921 or mcintyrej@pwchomerepairs.org.

Currently, Modifications for Mobility is a critical program for PWC, targeting complicated home modification projects that are typically too expensive for its low-income, disabled clients. Modifications made under this program assist some of PWC’s most vulnerable clients, improving their daily mobility and independence.

For more information about our current Modifications for Mobility offerings, please contact John Hay at hayj@pwchomerepairs.org or (513) 351-7921.

You can find out about our income guidelines here, and apply online for our services.

PWC Named One of the Top Workplaces in Cincinnati: What It Means to Us

Posted on July 08, 2011 by jock pitts

Over the past 36 years, there have been many special and rewarding milestones we’ve celebrated here at PWC. Most recently, we were honored by Enquirer Media as one of the “Top 75 Workplaces in Cincinnati.” We are greatly humbled by this award.

In reflecting on what it means to be called one of the Tri-State’s top workplaces, I think of our dedicated staff that makes PWC such a unique place to work. Each day brings new challenges – whether it is securing funding or developing new relationships with supportive community organizations – and we wouldn’t make such large strides without the dedication of our entire team working together. PWC provides 13,000 services to our neighbors in need annually, serving 20 counties in Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky. In 36 years, PWC has helped more than 200,000 individuals stay safely in their homes by providing critical home repairs, modifications and energy conservation services. Our team of employees understands PWC’s mission and knows their role is a vital one.  

In short, PWC was named a top workplace because our employees said it was the best place to be. Our team is proud to have grown from a grassroots organization founded by two men to a $14 million agency with 136 employees serving three states. 

We’re honored to be named one of the “Top Workplaces in Cincinnati.” We rely on the unwavering work ethic of our entire staff to provide life-changing services to our clients. I thank our employees for bringing their personal best to the office and to the field each and every day. And I hope that our team continues to be inspired by the smiles on the faces of the clients we serve. Knowing our work has made a difference in the lives of our neighbors is the greatest honor of all.

Alisa

Posted on June 24, 2011 by kim

Indiana resident Alisa is 12 years old and suffers from cerebral palsy.  It mainly affects her legs and makes it very hard for her to walk without assistance from a walker or wheelchair.  When leaving the house she wears braces on her legs to help her walk. 

Alisa and her family are very hopeful that medical research will help find a cure for cerebral palsy and that she will one day be able to walk.  Next week she will have surgery which the family hopes will help.  After the surgery Alisa will again be confined to a wheelchair with full leg casts until she heals. She will be in a wheelchair for at least a year. 

Her mother expressed how thankful she was for the ramp and new deck that People Working Cooperatively has built for them.  She said it was difficult to get Alisa up and down the old deck steps in a wheelchair. Alisa has also fallen many times while using a walker. 

“You don’t realize how hard it is to get in and out of your house until you can’t walk,” her mom said.

Thanks to PWC and the new ramp, Alisa and her family are happy that she now can safely get in and out of her own home.

“It helps her feel more normal,” her mom said.

To help clients like Alisa please Donate Today!

Volunteering with PWC: Simply a Way of Life

Posted on June 17, 2011 by

Looking for a little inspiration this summer? Look no further than PWC. In the last 36 years, PWC’s staff of licensed, trained employees and dedicated corps of 6,000-plus volunteers have assisted more than 200,000 individuals.  

One such volunteer is Jere McIntyre, who has served as a volunteer with PWC since 1996 (and has been board member with PWC since 1998). He has volunteered his time each month to lead PWC home repair projects for our neighbors in need. 

When asked why volunteering for PWC is so important, he offered these answers:

Why do you give back the way you do?

I’m from a small town and we were raised to help one another out. If a family member or a neighbor isn’t available to help, then it falls to the community. My father exemplified this by always giving and taught me to do the same. Not only have my skills improved by giving back to PWC, but many of the projects have offered me a chance to work alongside my adult children, making it a particularly meaningful experience for me personally.

I understand you have a woodshop in your garage. How do you use this unique skill for PWC clients?

We mostly use my woodshop for prep work before we are on site doing repairs. For example, we will build customized cabinets for bathrooms or other customized pieces (such as custom steps) needed for mobility modifications beforehand so that on the day of the repair, we have everything pre-made and ready to be installed. Last year, we remodeled a bathroom to be functional for less than $500 in just 2 days.

What advice do you have for people considering whether or not to help out this year?

Our neighbors need us. A few years ago my son and I went down to Mississippi after Hurricane Katrina hit. The homeowner had been living in a FEMA trailer and her home was in desperate need of repair. Many of our neighbors right here in the Tri-State are living like this and it shouldn’t take a hurricane to get us moving to help them.

Look for a special story featuring Jere in the “Good Things Happening” column of The Kentucky Enquirer next Sunday, June 26.

PWC is always looking for volunteers, particularly those in the community with skills in carpentry, plumbing or electrical work to help with complex home repair projects for our neighbors in need.

To learn more about how you can volunteer with PWC, contact Volunteer Manager Sara Bourgeois at (513) 351-7921 or click here.

Client story - Mini and David

Posted on June 10, 2011 by kim

Mini and David I.

“It was a Godsend when PWC put the roof on because the city said we had to fix it or it was a violation.  We couldn't afford to have it done. Any time we have an emergency, they have come through and we are very grateful.” – Mini I.

Mini and David I. of College Hill are thankful for all of the things PWC has done for them, since they are both disabled and live on a very low fixed income.  Their roof leaked so badly that they  received a letter from the City of Cincinnati saying the roof was a code violation. But help was on the way.  PWC was able to give them a new roof, not just over their house, but the garage too. 

"This was such a blessing," Mini said. "I don't know where we would have turned to."

Last year Mini and David were able to get a new hot water heater.  PWC also provided them with a window unit to keep them cool in the summer.  They received free home weatherization and were thrilled that PWC checked all of their appliances to make sure that they weren’t using more electricity than needed. They even received a new refrigerator.

"PWC was there for us when we needed help," said Mini. "We are grateful for the help."

A Kick-start to Summer with PWC

Posted on June 03, 2011 by

With temperatures now in the high 80s, it’s starting to feel like summer throughout the 20 counties we serve in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. Here at People Working Cooperatively, we’ve got a quite a bit going on this summer!

Did you know we’ll be working with a few special volunteer groups in June and July?

June 28 – July 1 World Changers

This volunteer group has been working with PWC for a few years now. Each summer, they bring hundreds of high school students along with skilled chaperones and do some serious home repairs. This year, they’ll be tackling more home maintenance projects like porch staining with help from PWC.

July 11 – July 15 Group Work Camps

Group Work Camps will bring 400 high school students along with skilled chaperones to work on 60-70 projects through Middletown. This group is hosted by Supports to Encourage Low-income Families (SELF) in Butler County, and PWC is happy to be partnering with them

July 26 – July 28 Know Sweat

This faith-based group will send students throughout the country to work on home repairs. This marks the second year that PWC will work with Know Sweat, and this year, we’ll be working with five groups. Know Sweat is even providing some funding for the home repair materials. PWC is looking forward to seeing the group in action again.

PWC will also be hosting its 7^th Annual Golf Outing on Monday, August 15 through HealthCare Friends. The golf outing supports our Modifications for Mobility program, and HealthCare Friends has graciously adopted PWC as its charity of choice to receive proceeds from the outing.

And if you want to get in on the volunteering action, consider calling Volunteer Manager Sara Bourgeois at (513) 351-7921. You can sign up to attend “Home Improvement Saturdays” on the third Saturday of every month.

Enjoy your summer!

Thanks for a Successful Repair Affair

Posted on May 20, 2011 by

We would like to extend a big thank you to the volunteers, sponsors and staff that helped to make our 29^th Annual Repair Affair event so successful! Despite the rain, we had 800 volunteers come together last weekend to help 100 of our most vulnerable neighbors with critical home repairs.

From building ramps to cleaning gutters, our volunteers, staff and families didn’t let the weather stop them from making a big difference in the lives of the people in need in our community.

If you didn’t get a chance to help out last weekend, we will have an overflow day this Saturday, May 21. For more information on volunteering with PWC in the future, please call Sara Bourgeois, PWC volunteer manager, at (513) 351-7921.

Seeking Skilled Volunteers for 29th Annual Repair Affair Event

Posted on April 22, 2011 by

Believe it or not, it’s that time of year again! Repair Affair is back…and we need your help.

We are currently looking for skilled volunteers to join us on Saturday, May 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. PWC staff members and volunteers will help provide critical home repairs and modifications for 100 low-income, elderly and disabled homeowners throughout Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Southern Indiana.

Those in the community with skills in roofing, general carpentry, plumbing or electrical work are strongly encouraged to volunteer.

Repair Affair teams will be composed of individuals, families, businesses and community groups. There is an optional $10 donation for individuals, or $20 per family, to cover the costs of participant T-shirts and event registration. 

Registration deadline for volunteer groups is today, April 22 but individuals may continue to register through the day of the event. Volunteers may register online or by calling Sara Bourgeois, PWC volunteer program manager, at (513) 351-7921. For more information, check out the Facebook event.

A Fairytale Ending for Oscar Night America 2011

Posted on April 14, 2011 by

Earlier this year, People Working Cooperatively hosted our annual fundraiser Oscar Night^® America: Humana's Fantasy and Fairytales that benefited our Modifications for Mobility program. The evening was a success with a great crowd and wonderful emcees Hagit Limor and Steve Raleigh from WCPO-TV (pictured).

PWC recently learned that the fundraiser brought in $155,000 for our Modifications for Mobility program, our highest amount ever raised. We cannot begin to thank all the donors, volunteers, sponsors and patrons who made this evening a success. With these new funds in place, we will be able to help those on our extensive waiting list for our Modifications for Mobility program. While this amount is fantastic, we still need to raise money continually to keep up with the demand for our services.

For those unfamiliar with Modifications for Mobility, it is a critical program for PWC in which we target complicated home modification projects that are typically too expensive for low-income, disabled clients. These modifications assist some of our most vulnerable clients, and we are incredibly grateful for the funds raised at this year’s Oscar Night America.

To learn more about how you can help our modifications clients, please visit this section of our website: http://www.pwchomerepairs.org/services/our-services/mobility-modification.aspx

Thank you to all of our sponsors, patrons, donors and volunteers for supporting this very worthy cause.

Ohio Department of Development Awards PWC $800,000 Grant

Posted on March 18, 2011 by

The Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) will award People Working Cooperatively an $800,000 grant for home repairs to low- and moderate-income homeowners throughout Southwest Ohio.

The grant is through the Housing Assistance Grant Program, which is administered by the ODOD’s Office of Housing and Community Partnerships. PWC was one of 27 nonprofits throughout Ohio to receive a grant and was one of two nonprofits to receive $800,000 – the highest amount awarded.

“Being awarded a grant such as the Housing Assistance Grant is further proof that PWC has been successful in our efforts to help improve the greater community,” said PWC President Jock Pitts. “The work that we’re doing allows homeowners to stay safely in their homes and helps to keep neighborhoods intact, which benefits everyone.”

PWC is expecting to aid 475 households and 1,075 individuals over period of two years through the $800,000 grant. The work will specifically benefit the outer counties that surround Cincinnati, such as Butler, Warren and Clermont counties.

“These dollars allow us to do additional work in those areas,” said Pitts. “It’s the most significant funding for we have for those counties. These dollars will truly allow more people to stay in their homes. The impact is substantial.”

The grant will allow PWC to perform home repairs and accessibility modifications. To find out if you are eligible for the income-based program, call (513) 351-7921 or visit www.pwchomerepairs.org.  

Park + Vine to Host PWC Weatherization Session – March 5

Posted on March 02, 2011 by

With the fairy dust of this year’s Oscar Night America starting to settle, we’re already looking forward to our next event – a spring weatherization session at Park + Vine.

This Saturday, March 5 from 10 to 11 a.m. PWC weatherization expert Tony Gray will present a few tips and must-do’s for the house this spring. The session will focus on energy conservation, and Tony will share a few home tips like the ones listed here:

-- Use energy efficient light bulbs like fluorescent, especially the compact fluorescents.

-- Clean your light bulbs (when they are cool), since dirt absorbs light and wastes energy.

-- Keep refrigerator coils clean and unobstructed, clean around the motor only when unplugged.

-- Install low-flow shower heads and sink aerators to reduce water usage.

We will also be informing attendees of the opportunity to volunteer with PWC. With our recent DOE grant, we’re looking for interested volunteers to spend some free time helping us to weatherize homes in the community.

For more information about the session, check out the Park + Vine Facebook event listing. And for more information about volunteering, give us a call at (513) 351-7921. Hope to see you Saturday!

IF YOU GO

            Park + Vine

            1202 Main Street

            Cincinnati, OH

            10 to 11 a.m.

            Street parking available.

People Working Cooperatively Prepares for a Successful Oscar Night® America 2011

Posted on February 02, 2011 by

Now that it’s officially February, the folks here at People Working Cooperatively are kicking into high gear for our annual fundraiser and five-star evening, Oscar Night America. This marks the 14^th year that PWC will roll out the red carpet in Cincinnati with proceeds benefiting PWC’s Modifications for Mobility program.

For the fourth consecutive year, Humana has signed on as the annual gala’s title sponsor. Presenting sponsors include Advanced Testing Laboratory Inc., Macy’s, Recker & Boerger and Viox Services, an EMCOR Company; additional sponsors include US Bank, Prestige Audio Visual, and Zone CG, Citi, Fifth Third Bank, Focused Capitol Solutions LLC, Frost Brown Todd LLC, PNC Bank, Towers Watson, WCPO-TV, Cincinnati Magazine, WVXU and WNKU.

Both Cynthia Blocksom and Jeanne Houck Thomas, long-time supporters of PWC and the annual gala, return as co-chairs for the 2011 Oscar Night America gala. PWC is the only organization to bring the real Academy Awards^® to Cincinnati live on a big screen.

 Tickets for this year’s event, Humana’s Fantasy and Fairytales, are still available by calling (513) 351-7921 or online at www.pwchomrepairs.org.

Weatherization Tips from the Experts at PWC

Posted on January 20, 2011 by

As the Tri-State area is covered in inches of snow, the weatherization experts at PWC have provided a few tips to help make your house warm and cozy without racking up the heating bill.

-- Utilize weather stripping in drafty areas around the house.

-- Use a digital thermostat to regulate the temperature at different times of the day.

-- Replace your furnace filter. You should replace filters every 30 to 60 days to keep your furnace in tip-top shape. To test if you need new filters, hold your furnace filters up to a bright light, and if it is difficult to see the light, it is time to replace them.

-- Turn your hot water heater down to 120 degrees to save money. Insulate your hot water supply pipes using polyurethane foam pipe wrap.

-- Ensure all windows are closed and locked. Put plastic over your windows if you do not have newer-type replacement windows.

-- Insulate your attic. Caulk gaps or use expandable foam around windows and doors to prevent air infiltration. 

Tips like these have helped PWC’s low-income clients reduce home energy expenditures by as much as 20 percent while improving the safety, comfort and living conditions of their homes. Do you know someone who is in need of weatherization services from People Working Cooperatively? Give us a call at (513) 351-7921.

People Working Cooperatively Introduces Home Repair Bequest Society

Posted on December 28, 2010 by

Here at People Working Cooperatively, the nonprofit organization that helps low-income, elderly and disabled homeowners with critical home repairs, energy conservation, weatherization, and mobility modifications, we've announced our newly designed Planned Giving Program.

Central to the Planned Giving Program is the new Home Repair Bequest Society, designed to recognize and honor friends of PWC who leave a legacy to the organization through a planned gift. These gifts include wills, charitable trusts or other deferred gift arrangements, like retirement planned gifts or real estate.

According to Bill Hitch, PWC development manager, the Home Repair Bequest Society has been established to receive and acknowledge when people make a bequest in their will. “This is a critical piece of our planned giving program – to ensure that people who understand the importance of keeping our neighbors in their homes leave a legacy for many generations to come,” he said.

“Bequests provide critical support of People Working Cooperatively and assure the future viability of the organization,” Hitch explained. “This is also another way to ensure that repairs to homes, modifications for mobility and energy conservation services will be accessible to all clients in PWC’s operating territory.”

We have seen the demand for our services steadily increase each year, making The Home Repair Bequest Society even more critical.  

“We’re proud of our 35 year history, dedication, and reputation of performing essential repairs and services so low-income homeowners can remain in their homes, living independently in a safe, sound environment,” said PWC President Jock Pitts. “We hope that people will consider helping this mission continue for future generations by making a planned contribution.”

If you have questions about the Home Repair Bequest Society or planned giving, give Bill Hitch a call at (513) 351-7921. You can also visit the PWC website at www.pwchomerepairs.org.

Watch it First: Prepare Affair 2010 Video

Posted on December 21, 2010 by

November 13 was a successful day of hard work and great volunteerism during our 23rd Annual Prepare Affair. We're happy to commemorate the day with a short video that shows our PWC volunteers hard at work.

Check it out on our YouTube page:http://www.youtube.com/user/pwchomerepairs

Prepare Affair Success and Spillover Date

Posted on November 18, 2010 by

Our 23rd Annual Prepare Affair was a success with more than 3,000 volunteers spending their Saturday helping elderly, disabled and low-income neighbors prepare their homes for the cold winter weather.

We saw such an interest in participating from volunteers that we're hosting a Prepare Affair Spillover Day this Saturday, Nov. 20. We're thrilled that so many can donate their time to help others.

Thank you to all who volunteered.  

(pictured) A group of volunteers from Mercy High School smile for the camera after a long day's work of raking leaves and clearing gutters.

Listen to eTown November 7 on WNKU

Posted on November 03, 2010 by

Make sure to tune in as PWC makes the national spotlight 5 p.m. November 7 with a special edition of the radio show eTown on radio station WNKU-FM (89.7).

eTown is a popular weekly radio program focusing on community and the people who make good things happen all across the United States. It is heard on over 280 stations coast-to-coast with the local program airing at 5 p.m. on Sundays.

The November 7 show features a profile of PWC employee Stefan Olson who created the very first Prepare Affair and Repair Affair events for PWC.

Olson will be the recipient of e-town’s “E-chievement Award” for his role in starting Prepare Affair 23 years ago. The award is designed to inspire action from listeners who want to do something similar in their communities.

Click here for information about the show: http://www.etown.org/listen.summary.php?id=314&air_date=2010-11-03

Since its inception, Prepare Affair has brought more than 34,000 volunteers together and provided 138,000-plus service hours at the homes of just under 14,000 low-income, elderly or disabled neighbors in greater Cincinnati.

PWC is proud to be in the national spotlight for bringing together community members to serve low income, elderly and disable homeowners in need.

For more information about this award and Prepare Affair, please visit: http://www.pwchomerepairs.org/connect-with-pwc/etown.aspx

PWC Celebrates 35 Years with Annual Recognition Celebration

Posted on October 21, 2010 by

This past Wednesday, Oct. 13, People Working Cooperatively celebrated its 35th anniversary at our Annual Recognition Celebration at Drees Pavilion. It was a special day with proclamations from our elected officials and well wishes from our many supporters.

We took the time to recognize a few people and organizations that make PWC what it is. Recognitions include

-- Chairman's Award: IHCDA (Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority)

-- Arthur Lee Taylor 2010 Employee of the Year: RJ Keller and Gloria Heideman

-- Cecile Mihaly Volunteers of the Year: Joe Zielinski and Bill Rhoads

-- The Home Repair Bequest Society Charter Members:

      - William and Phyllis Augspurger

      - James M. Garvey

      - Donna Hartman

      - William and Bonita Hitch

      - Jock and Deborah Pitts

      - Snowden and Marianne Rowe

      - Joseph and Kathy Zielinski

-- Friends of PWC Award: College of Mount St. Joseph, Advanced Testing Laboratory, Paul Colbert

-- The Dan Ober Volunteer Hall of Fame: Dick Allen and Rick Sherman

Pictured to the left: Jock Pitts, president of PWC, Joe Zielinski, Bill Rhoads, and Mike Viox, board chairman.

Thank you to all who were honored and for everyone's contributions to PWC!

PWC winner of X-LAB Competition

Posted on October 06, 2010 by jock pitts

PWC was recently announced as one of eight winners of Xavier University’s  Launch-a-Business Competition, a program designed to boost the economy by supporting new enterprises and nonprofits. As a winner, PWC will receive free consulting services from Xavier business professionals and be a part of an exciting new initiative in the greater Cincinnati area.

This award is another giant step forward for PWC. Specifically, we believe this new partnership will result in the following:

-  The ability to draw on the business expertise of the nationally renowned Williams College of Business and to collaborate with and receive assistance from Xavier staff, MBA students and executive mentors.

-  The development of a strategic business plan for the Modifications for Mobility service sector of People Working Cooperatively and recommendations for expanding the model beyond its current design.

-  A long-sought, enhanced business relationship with Xavier University and the potential to use its national network of alumni, supporters, business relationships to support People Working Cooperatively's rapid regional, as well as its anticipated future national growth.

-  An increased leverage of the People Working Cooperatively's brand through a newly created partnership with Xavier University's national reputation. 

Because the dollars the PWC uses come from donors, grants, volunteers and businesses, stewardship of funds is critical. We make sure that each dollar is spent in the most efficient and useful manner. With the guidance of great business minds at Xavier University, we anticipate we’ll be able to stretch our dollars farther to help even more local homeowners in need.

In the photo: Jock Pitts, president of People Working Cooperatively, accepts the new X-LAB partnership with a handshake. Photo credit: Greg Rust, Xavier University.

PWC in the News: A Busy September

Posted on September 27, 2010 by

If you've been reading the newspaper or skimming the news online, you have probably seen People Working Cooperatively in the news this month. It's been a busy September, and we're so thankful for the local news outlets that help us to share our good news. Listed below are a few links to articles that we're especially proud of:

• The Business Courier "People Working Cooperatively wins $1.5M weatherization grant"
• The Cincinnati Enquirer "X-LAB news business winners named"
• The Business Courier "Xavier announces X-LAB winners, new gift"
• WCPO-TV / ABC 9 "Inaugural X-LAB competition announces winners"

With all the positive energy moving us forward, we're geared up and ready for Fall and this year's Prepare Affair!

$1.5 Million Allows PWC to Serve More in the Community

Posted on September 07, 2010 by jock pitts

Last week U.S. Department of Energy awarded People Working Cooperatively a $1.5 million grant for home weatherization work in Ohio. This is a significant milestone for PWC and the clients we serve. It is the first time PWC has received direct funding from the federal government – putting us amongst an elite group across the nation to receive such a grant. We are pleased to be selected for this program and honored to be entrusted with these significant dollars that will allow us to reach out and help many more needy homeowners with the energy conservation services they need to save on utility usage.

What makes this award so exciting is that it utilizes PWC’s unique method of leveraging DOE dollars with both private and public funds to provide a comprehensive, meaningful service for homeowners.

As has been our mission for the past 35 years, this money will go to the homeowners who need it most in the region. We’ll tighten up these homes to make them more efficient, blow in installation, replace furnaces and install high-efficiency equipment when appropriate. For those with natural gas, electric or other fuels sources, we will typically cut usage by at least 20 percent, saving the homeowner’s precious financial resources while curbing energy output and reducing pollution. 

What does this mean for our clients? Homeowners who have had to face critical budget decisions – fix the furnace or buy medication and food – can worry just a little bit less. $1.5 million means we will be able to help at least 675 more local households stay warm this winter, directly benefiting the client and the community in an immediate, effective manner.

What does this mean for PWC? We are already growing an expanding into new territories and this grant will enable PWC to hire additional staff as well as recruit 100 volunteers to assist with the implementation of the program. More people equal more help for those who need it.

At PWC, we believe we can keep fragile low income homeowners living safely in the homes they love, benefitting not just the homeowner, but the community and the entire region. Our programs help to maintain safety and stability with quality, professional services.

In all, we are excited and energized by the DOE dollars and look forward to beginning this program in January 2011. Meanwhile, if you know someone who is in need of our home energy conservation and weatherization services, please give us a call at (513) 351-7921.

Grants to Help Repair Homes

Posted on August 18, 2010 by

PWC was grateful when we learned that we had received a few grants to help with home repairs throughout the Tri-State. Earlier this summer, The Kentucky Enquirer helped us share the good news about Northern Kentucky home repairs with their readers.

Thanks again to those who have provided PWC with the resources to help homeowners and thanks to The Kentucky Enquirer for helping us share the good news!

PWC Wins Grants to Meet Region’s Needs

Posted on August 05, 2010 by chris owens

At PWC, our mission guides everything that we do:

“People Working Cooperatively performs essential repairs and services so that low-income homeowners can remain in their homes, living independently in a safe and sound environment.”

Over the past 35 years, that’s just what we have done – helped thousands of our most vulnerable neighbors stay safely in their homes. Everyday, PWC’s development department and committee are focused on this effort.

Support to PWC comes in many forms – donations, sponsorships, volunteer time, and grants. In fact, PWC was recently awarded a few grants that will allow us to help more people in the areas we serve from Dearborn County all the way to Hamilton, Ohio.

PWC has been awarded the following six grants each to be used for specific programs but all while helping local homeowners:

--- $5,000 from the Dearborn Community Foundation County Progress Grant Program to provide emergency repairs for low-income homeowners in Dearborn County;

--- $25,000 from the City of Lawrenceburg Community Grant Program Phase 2 to be used for the whole house home repair program in Dearborn County;

--- $50,000 from the Weathering the Economic Storm Fund, a partnership of funders, managed by The Greater Cincinnati Foundation to provide assistance with emergency home repairs and energy conservation for low income homes in Northern Kentucky and Ohio;

--- $60,000 from the Northern Kentucky Family of Funds at The Greater Cincinnati Foundation to provide home repairs and modifications in Northern Kentucky;

--- $15,000 from The R.C. Durr Foundation, Inc. to provide home modifications in Northern Kentucky; and

--- $10,000 from the Hamilton Community Foundation to provide emergency home repairs for low-income homeowners in Hamilton.

We’re so grateful for the agencies that trust PWC to help meet this increased need. We see these grants as resources that we must carefully use in the most meaningful way so that the maximum number of homeowners is helped. At PWC, we deliver tremendous value to the homeowner we’re helping and to our funders.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to these agencies that have given us the resources to make even more of a difference in the community.

--- City of Lawrenceburg

--- Dearborn Community Foundation

--- Hamilton Community Foundation

--- The Greater Cincinnati Foundation

--- The R.C. Durr Foundation, Inc.

For the past few years, the economy has hit many families and the elderly hard. We’ve seen a great increase in demand for our services. It seems like for each homeowner we help, we see another two homeowners who need our assistance, too.

All of PWC’s funding has tremendous potential to transform lives in lasting and powerful ways. Financial support to PWC is directly benefiting someone through the building of a ramp for accessibility to move freely in and out of their home, to replace a roof that has been leaking for years and causing interior maintenance problems or helping a client to become energy smart and reduce their monthly energy costs.

In addition to PWC’s dedicated staff, we rely on donors and volunteers to give of their time and resources. But we also understand that in order to perpetuate and even enhance the programs and services which we offer the community, a marked increase in planned giving must occur.

I encourage you to look through our website and see the impact the services are having on our clients and the community. Please consider taking the next step and volunteer your time to help an elderly homeowner, or donate to help a neighbor with a ramp or other life-changing modification or repair.

Thank you for your support of PWC.

2009 in Review: PWC President’s Perspective

Posted on July 15, 2010 by jock pitts

The year 2009 represented a significant milestone for People Working Cooperatively. We expanded our energy conservation services into a third state, Indiana.

It’s significant, too, because this year PWC celebrates our 35th anniversary. Our growth is made possible because of your support and all of the tremendous help we’ve received in our local community.

In our 35 years, we’ve developed a business model of service that is efficient, cost effective and productive. We believe strongly that we are a business that provides a charity, a business that has a proven reputation of providing professional home repair and energy conservation services to those in need. The benefit to the community is profound, as demonstrated by the client stories in this report.

The work that PWC performs is needed. In our 35 years, we’ve learned how to provide those services in a professional manner that delivers tremendous value to the client, our funders, and the entire community. This is what’s needed in today’s housing arena, and we are ready to meet that need.

Our home is the Greater Cincinnati community, and our goal is to better strengthen and refine our mission work here. Looking ahead, we are evaluating broadening our scope of services into other communities. The need for PWC’s repair, energy conservation and modification services, and our unique delivery that utilizes both professionals and volunteers, literally allows people to remain safely in their homes. This service model and delivery system can be replicated in other areas across our country to cost effectively meet the needs of other low income homeowners.

I encourage you to consider taking the next step and volunteer your time to help an elderly homeowner, or donate to help a neighbor with a ramp or other life-changing modification or repair.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, our staff and all of our volunteers, I thank you for your dedication to PWC and look forward to your continued support.

Annual Report

Posted on June 29, 2010 by

Just finished up with the 2009 Annual Report. Lots of great stories and information. Look for your copy in the mail or e-mail sullivank@pwchomerepairs.org for your copy!

PWC Works With World Changers

Posted on June 21, 2010 by

Our staff at PWC was able to make sure that World Changers, a church-driven volunteer project, was connected to the people in need throughout the Cincinnati region. Check out The Cincinnati Enquirer article about the good work that young people are doing in our communities.

We are so grateful for the generosity of volunteers - both young and old!

PWC Extends Stay In Indiana

Posted on June 16, 2010 by shannan

PWC was thrilled when it got the good news last fall that we could begin helping our Indiana neighbors in addition to those in Ohio and Kentucky. Earlier this spring, The Business Courier chatted with PWC President Jock Pitts about extending our stay in Indiana.

Click here to read the entire article.

Long Time Volunteer Featured in Cincinnati Enquirer

Posted on June 09, 2010 by shannan

PWC is so greatful for all of its amazing volunteers. The Cincinnati Enquirer recently stopped by to interivew 86 year old volunteer, Dick Allen. The former vice president of a scrap metal broker spoke with reporter Mark Curnutte about his experience volunteering, and the impact it's made on his life. 

We'd like to thank Dick for his williness to share his story, and the past 20 years volunteering with us!

Click here to read the entire article.

Seeking Volunteers to Assist With Home Repair Projects

Posted on June 02, 2010 by shannan

What are you doing Saturday, June 12th?  PWC is in need of volunteers to help with home repair projects and would love your help! Skilled volunteers are need to assist with the following types of home repairs:

Home repair projects include the following:

--- Installing a new kitchen faucet, replacing a concrete steps, and repairing gutters;

--- Replacing broken window panes;

--- Construction of a small wood stoop, staining a front porch, misc. bathroom plumbing repairs and door repair;

--- Replacing a 2x4 handrail, staining a wood ramp and deck;

--- Repairing a wood walkway, replacing a basement door, and replacing a front door; and

--- Installing new drywall in kitchen and reinstalling kitchen cabinets.

If you can help, just visit www.pwchomerepairs.org or call Sara Bourgeois or Rachel Haffey at (513) 351-7921 to sign up.

From all of us at PWC --> Thank You

Posted on May 18, 2010 by shannan

We'd like to thank everyone who helped make this year's Repair Affair event a big success.  More than 800 people came together and helped 100 low-income, elderly and disabled home owners with critical home repairs.  From volunteers and sponsors to our staff, everyone pulled together and made a real difference in the lives of neighbors in need.

Repair Affair --> We couldn't do it without you!

Posted on May 06, 2010 by shannan

We've said it before, and we'll say it again.  We couldn't do the amazing things we are able to without our dedicated volunteers.  With Repair Affair taking place this weekend, we thougth it would be fun to put together a little video sharing some of the photos we've collected over the years as well as some fun facts about PWC, and specifically about Repair Affair.

We hope you enjoy it, and who knows, you just my see yourself in a picture! Click on the image below to view the video.

PWC Invites Volunteers Celebrate the 35 Days of Summer w/ Volunteerism

Posted on May 05, 2010 by shannan

As many of you know, this year PWC is celebrating it's 35th anniversary and you're invited to join us!   This summer we're launching the 35 Days of Summer, a 35-day campaign encouraging community members to volunteer their time to help neighbors in need. Starting Saturday, May 8 and running through Saturday, June 12, PWC wants to help connect you with low-income and elderly neighbors across Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Southeast Indiana who need assistance with simple home repairs.

The 35 Days of Summer event will officially kick off during Repair Affair this Saturday. Keeping its 35^th anniversary year in mind, we want to continue the Repair Affair spirit throughout the summer.

“Repair Affair is an event that let’s us do a lot of good in one day, but in celebrating our 35^th anniversary year, we wanted to extend that momentum,” said Jock Pitts, president of PWC. “There’s not a price you can put on the value of helping a less fortunate neighbor maintain their home. It’s something that not only improves their lives, but the lives of the entire community.”

In encouraging volunteerism throughout the summer, PWC has organized two days – Saturday, May 15 and Saturday, June 12 – in which volunteers can come together to help neighbors in need. Volunteers can come alone or organize a group to visit clients’ homes and help with simple home repairs and maintenance. PWC can also connect individuals and groups who cannot make one of those dates with opportunities to help.

“We want people to know that they can volunteer with us any time, any day,” said Kim Sullivan, PWC marketing communications manager. “The 35 Days of Summer campaign gives us a chance to remind people that we’re here, and we connect people who want to help with those who desperately need it.”

Groups and individuals who are interested in volunteer opportunities should contact Sara Bourgeois or Rachel Haffey at (513) 351-7921.

PWC’s Annual Repair Affair Event to Help Homeowners in Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana

Posted on April 30, 2010 by shannan

We are excited to share that more than 800 volunteers have signed up to help homeowners in need through out 28^th Annual Repair Affair event, sponsored by the City of Cincinnati and Home Depot. On Saturday, May 8, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., PWC staff members and skilled volunteers will come together to help provide critical home repairs and modifications to nearly 100 low-income, elderly and disabled neighbors throughout Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Southern Indiana.

This year marks the first time that residents in Indiana will be on the list for home improvements during Repair Affair. “Our expansion of Repair Affair into Indiana means we’ll be able to help even more neighbors whose homes are in need of repair,” said Jock Pitts, president of PWC. “We see this as proof that we’re doing things right at PWC, and Repair Affair is an event that let’s us do a lot of good for a lot of people and communities in just one day.”

Repair Affair tackles high-impact repair projects that are completed on a regular basis by PWC staff and volunteers but require the help of a large team to complete in one day. More skilled volunteers will help complete extensive repairs like gutter replacement, drywall, roofing, and installation of accessibility ramps, handrails and grab bars. Other volunteers will be completing simple tasks like yard work, washing windows and cleaning gutters.

 Teams will be composed of individuals, families, businesses and community groups, including a group designated for young professionals.

Following the event, PWC invites volunteers to join other Repair Affair participants for a grill-out, complete with food, drinks, a PWC talent show and plenty of additional fun activities.  The post-event will celebrate the day’s work and PWC’s kick-off into its 35^th anniversary year.

PWC is still in need of volunteers exemplifying skills in the areas of carpentry, plumbing, masonry, electrical and drywall. Volunteers may register online at www.pwchomerepairs.org. There is an optional $10 donation for individuals, or $20 per family, to cover the costs of participant T-shirts and event registration. For more information, contact Sara Bourgeois or Rachel Haffey at (513) 351-7921.

Repair Affair is Back... And We Need You!

Posted on April 09, 2010 by shannan

It's hard to believe it's that time of year again, but Repair Affair is just a few weeks away! 

We are currently looking for skilled volunteers to join us on Saturday, May 8. From 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. That day PWC staff members and volunteers will help provide critical home repairs and modifications for 100 low-income, elderly and disabled homeowners throughout Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and southern Indiana.

Volunteers will help complete extensive repairs like gutter replacement, drywall, roofing, and installation of accessibility ramps, handrails and grab bars.

 “Repair Affair is all about neighbors helping neighbors and helping preserve our communities,” said Jock Pitts, president of People Working Cooperatively. “It’s a great opportunity to come together as a community and help some of our most vulnerable neighbors with much-needed home repairs.”

Repair Affair teams will be composed of individuals, families, businesses and community groups. Following the event, volunteers will enjoy a grill-out, complete with food, drinks, a PWC talent show and plenty of additional fun activities. There is an optional $10 donation for individuals, or $20 per family, to cover the costs of participant T-shirts and event registration. 

Registration deadline for volunteers is April 31, 2010. Registration is available online at www.pwchomerepairs.org or you can give Sara Bourgeois or Rachel Haffey a call at (513) 351-7921.

Calling All Young Professionals

Posted on April 02, 2010 by shannan

Oscar Night Gala Raises $130,000

Posted on April 02, 2010 by shannan

People Working Cooperatively Announces Host/Hostesses for 2010 Oscar Night After Party

Posted on February 24, 2010 by shannan

People Working Cooperatively is excited to announce the official hosts and hostesses for our Oscar Night America After Party:

* Tonia Murphy
* Jim Kromer 
* Bridget and Todd Castellini
* Monika Roberts
* Kate Crossen
* Bob & Erin Schwartz
* Amy Scalia

Taking place Sunday, March 7 from 8p.m. to midnight, PWC invites supporters to attend Oscar Night America’s exclusive After Party at the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza. Part of the only official Oscar Night America Party in Cincinnati and sponsored by CincyChic.com, the fun, glamorous event will take place in the Carew Tower Arcade and hosts an It Came from Hollywood theme. Guests can watch the Oscars with their friends in a VIP Oscar Viewing room and will enjoy casino games, pinball and a beauty shop. Guests will also enjoy dancing with DJ DQ and The Cincinnati Bop Club & hula hooping with Shine Yoga Studio.

Proceeds raised during the It Came From Hollywood Oscar Night After Party event will directly benefit PWC’s Modifications for Mobility program. 

Tickets for the Oscar Night After Party are $20 per person and are available for purchase at www.pwchomrepairs.org or by calling (513) 351-7921. 

PWC's 2010 Oscar Night America "It Came from Hollywood," Auction Continues

Posted on February 23, 2010 by shannan

People Working Cooperatively's 2010 Oscar Night America "It Came from Hollywood," auction is in it's third week! The online auction will run thru Friday, March 5th, with the live event taking place on March 7th, 2010.

PWC's Oscar Night America supports our mission to keep low-income elderly or disabled homeowners living in their homes through critical home repairs.    Proceeds from our auction event will go to People Working Cooperatively's programs and services.  So use the "refer a friend" button to tell your friends, family, and community. Get everyone in on the auction action! 

Back for the second year the individual who refers the most friends wins a massage at a local studio!  We're adding new items to our catalog as quickly as we receive them so keep checking back.  

Can't attend the event on the 7th, but want to be a part of the action?  Use our Proxy Bidding Feature.  Proxy bidding allows you to continue to bid on an item that is going to our live event.  You tell us just how much you are willing to spend on that perfect gift and we will assign a volunteer to bid incrementally on your behalf.    Several online bidders were the happy winners at our live event last year, using the Proxy Bidding Feature!

Click here to start browsing and bidding!

PWC Announces Oscar Night Sponsors

Posted on February 11, 2010 by shannan

PWC is proud to announce the official sponsors of this year’s It Came From Hollywood, Cincinnati’s only official Oscar Night^® America party. For the third consecutive year, Humana has signed on as the annual gala’s title sponsor. Presenting sponsors include Advanced Testing Laboratory Inc. and Macy’s; additional event sponsors include Citi, Fifth Third Bank, Focused Capitol Solutions LLC, Greenebaum Doll & McDonald PLLC, US Bank, Towers Watson, WCPO-TV, 55KRC, WNKU and CincyChic.com.

“We are so grateful to have the support of these local companies,” said Jock Pitts, president of PWC. “Their support literally translates into thousands of home repair services for low-income, elderly and disabled homeowners throughout the Tri-state.”

The 13^th annual event will be held in conjunction with the Academy Awards on Sunday, March 7 from 5:30 p.m. to midnight at the Cincinnati Hilton Netherland Plaza. Humana’s It Came From Hollywood will be one of only 50 official parties sanctioned by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences held across the country on Oscar Night.

The five-star Hollywood evening includes a red carpet welcome, themed 50’s cocktails, a Hollywood crooner, movie characters, drive-in appetizers, and a three-course gourmet meal. Throughout the evening, guests will have the opportunity to participate in live and silent auctions and a raffle giveaway that includes a $5,000 cash prize, 42’’ LCD HDTV, and a romantic weekend dinner for two at the Hilton. 

The night will also include a VIP After Party starting at 8:00 p.m. The party includes casino games, pinball, beauty shop and dancing with DJ DQ, plus a VIP Oscar viewing room and popcorn bar. Cost for the After Party for non-gala patrons is $20 at the door.

Tickets for Oscar Night are $150 per person and are available for purchase at www.pwchomrepairs.org or by calling (513) 351-7921. 

Watch the Oscars With Us - Oscar Night After Party

Posted on February 02, 2010 by shannan

Why stay home and watch the Oscars when you can join us and support a good cause!

PWC's Oscar Night Online Auction is Coming Soon!

Posted on January 27, 2010 by shannan

Can you believe the 2010 Oscar Night America "It Came from Hollywood" party is just a little over a month a way?  It's true and our online auction opens for bidding on February 5th, 2010 at 8:00 AM, Eastern Standard Time.

This year's Oscar Night's goal is to once again raise $130,000 to support our mission to keep low income homeowners safe in their homes by providing home repairs. We need your support! This is an exciting  way to help our clients and PWC!  At the same time you can have fun and a chance to win cool items.

Among items up for bid:

• * Two front and center tickets to Broadway
• * Sterling Silver Silpada Cha Cha ring
• * Two Baseball set: hand signed by Pete Rose & Nolan Ryan

Our catalog will become available for you to preview as the auction date approaches. You'll want to check back often to see what's new.

Scott Duebber Joins the PWC Team

Posted on January 27, 2010 by shannan

We are pleased to announce the newest member of our team, Scott Duebber.  Scott will be working in our accounting department. 

Prior to joining PWC, Scott spent eight years working as an accounting analyst at Milacron, Inc. in Cincinnati. He received his accounting degree from the College of Mount Saint Joseph, where he was a graduate cum laude. Outside of work, he is an active member of Impact Church and serves as the Director of Worship Ministries.

Please join us in welcoming him to the PWC family.

Hitch & Bourgeois Promoted

Posted on January 27, 2010 by shannan

We are excited to announce the promotions of Bill Hitch to Development Manager and of Sara Bourgeois to Volunteer Program Manager.

Bill has been with PWC for two years and previously served as the Volunteer Program Manager. In his new role as Development Manager, his responsibilities will include developing planned giving and donor strategies, securing sponsorships for our three major fundraising events, including Oscar Night, Repair Affair and Prepare Affair, and representing PWC at various events throughout the community.

Sara has been with PWC since early 2006 and has significant experience working on modification and weatherization projects for our clients. As the Volunteer Program Manager, she will now oversee anywhere from 30 volunteers each day to several thousand for special events. Sara's responsibilities include matching volunteers to projects within the field and office, volunteer recruitment, coordinating volunteers for PWC's two largest events, Prepare Affair and Repair Affair, and managing client requests for minor repairs.

Congrats to Bill & Sara!

A Big Thank You to The Humana Foundation

Posted on January 12, 2010 by shannan

People Working Cooperatively would like to thank the Humana Foundation for its generous $5,000 contribution.  The gift will help us continue providing important services that help keep local residents safe in their homes.

The Humana Foundation’s contribution will help PWC’s efforts immediately by providing local families with services such as home repairs, weatherization, modification, and general maintenance. 

From helping clients reduce energy costs and staying warm in their homes this winter to providing home modifications projects such as installing handicapped-accessible ramps, the grants and donations PWC receives, like that from the Humana Foundation, have enabled us to serve more than 175,000 clients over the past 34 years!

PWC"s John Hay Nominated for Health Care Hero Award

Posted on January 07, 2010 by shannan

Today the Cincinnati Business Courier announced the finalist's for it's Health Care Heros program and among the nominees was PWC's own John Hay! John, who manages the Modifications for Mobility program, is a finalist in the category of community outreach.

From the Business Courier's Web site: Health Care Heroes honors local health care organizations and professionals who have made an impact on health care in the community through their concern for patients, their research and inventions, their management skills, and their service to the poor and uninsured.

The awards ceremony will take place on March 4, from 6 - 9 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency downtown.

John is passionate about his job and the clients he helps everday and it's obvious to us all. 

Congrats John!!

SAVE THE DATE - It Came From Hollywood Oscar Night America Fundraiser

Posted on December 18, 2009 by shannan

Thanks for your help, we couldn't do it without you!

Posted on December 02, 2009 by shannan

Thousands of volunteers came out to help elderly tri-state homeowners at this year's Prepare Affair event. Here are a few pictures from the great day!

Villa Madonna Academy came out in full force to help with this year's Prepare Affair event. The group had more than 50 volunteers (as young as 2.5 years old) and completed work for 9 elderly/disabled homeowners in Covington, KY.

Volunteers from the University of Cincinnati get ready to head out.

 Schlueter Plumbing stops for a photo before heading out. Employees with Schlueter Plumbing have been participating in Prepare Affair event for more than 16 years.

More photos to come!

We Need Your Help!

Posted on November 18, 2009 by shannan

Following a successful Prepare Affair event on Saturday, November 14^th, PWC has experienced an increase in requests from elderly and disabled clients for assistance with light repairs and yard work. We are in need of volunteers to help in 20+ communities around Cincinnati. If you can help, we'd greatly appreciate it.  Visit www.pwchomerepairs.org/prepareaffair for additional information and contact Sara Bourgeois at (513) 351-7921 to register.

When:           Saturday, November 21, 2009: 

                      8:30 a.m. Orientation

                      Work can be scheduled around availability

Where:        People Working Cooperatively             

                    4612 Paddock Rd. | Cincinnati, OH 45229

Multiple communities across Cincinnati:             

PWC Hosts Annual Luncheon

Posted on November 02, 2009 by shannan

Employees and friends of People Working Cooperatively gathered in October to celebrate another successful year providing the Tri-State’s most low-income, elderly and disabled residents with critical home repairs. During the luncheon we recognized companies, organizations and individuals who have made major contributions, helping advance PWC’s causes.

This year’s award recipients included: The SC Ministry Foundation, PWC Chairperson’s Award; Chris Tanaka and Maureen Tierney, PWC Volunteer of the Year Award; and Schlueter Plumbing & David Lovekin, Friends of PWC Award.

Thank you to all of you for supporting PWC. We couldn't do the work we do without you!

PWC in the News

Posted on September 24, 2009 by shannan

A big thank you to the Cincinnati Business Courier and to the Cincinnati Enquirer for their coverage of People Working Cooperatively over the last week.  

1) If you missed it, last Friday's Business Courier included an article on PWC and our expansion into Indiana.  You can read the article here - "Cincinnati's People Working Cooper­atively will expand into Indiana with grant funds"

2) Today when you pick up the Cincinnati Enquirer you'll find a touching article by reporter Cliff Radel on our client Jim Walls.  Jim needed help getting his back yard and garage cleaned up and PWC volunteers were able to lend a hand.  You can read the article here - "Hissing possum adds spark to cleanup."

Busy November 14th? Come Hang Out With Us!

Posted on September 14, 2009 by shannan

It's one of the largest volunteer events in the region... and it's coming to your neighborhood!

People Working Cooperatively's 22^nd Annual Prepare Affair, presented by Lowe's, is Saturday, November 14, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. It's the Tri-state's largest single-day community volunteer event, which helps prepare homes in Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, and portions of Indiana for the long winter months ahead.

Last year, even a rainy day couldn't keep away the more than 3,000 individuals who raked leaves and cleaned gutters for their most fragile neighbors. The hardy volunteers helped more than 1,000 elderly homeowners clear their home repair checklists before the start of winter.

Prepare Affair is an extension of what PWC's dedicated group of employees and volunteers do on a daily basis to help their clients live safely in their homes. Following the day's work, Prepare Affair volunteers are invited to PWC to enjoy a Chili Fest, provided by US Foods and Kroger, and free chair massages, courtesy of Massage Envy.

Other 2009 Prepare Affair sponsors include the City of Cincinnati, Duke Energy, Hubert, Toyota, Church of the Redeemer, AT&T TelecomPioneers, Mt. Washington Presbyterian Church, Scripps Howard Foundation and Viox Services. To register as a volunteer for this year's event, visit the Events page at www.pwchomerepairs.org/prepareaffair and sign up before the Oct. 26 deadline. 

PWC Welcomes Three New Members to the Board

Posted on September 04, 2009 by shannan

We are excited to officially welcome three additions to our Board of Directors - Johnna Reeder of Duke Energy, India Davis of Spirit of America National Bank, and Mary Christensen of Christensen Christensen Donchatz Kettlewell & Owens, LLP.

Reeder, of Covington, KY, was recently honored as Northern Kentucky's 2008 Outstanding Woman Emerging Leader. She currently serves as the Regional Communications and Public Affairs Official for Duke Energy in Ohio and Kentucky and was previously employed at Fortune 500 companies like Citigroup and The Kroger Company.  She is active in several community and service organizations, including Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Legacy, the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, and the United Way's Young Leaders Society. 

Davis, of Cincinnati, has more than 20 years of management, sales and training experience. Her current role as Community Reinvestment Act officer for Spirit of America National Bank lends her the opportunity to ensure the Bank's involvement and dedication to programs that positively affect the lives of low- and moderate-income individuals and families in the local community. Davis's involvement in The Over the Rhine Community Housing Board of Directors allows her to be active in community focused associations such as the Tri-State Habitat for Humanity, Clermont Community Bankers and Greater Cincinnati Urban League.

Christensen held positions in the U.S. House of Representatives before picking up a "second" career in law, which she practiced for several years as a partner at Bricker & Eckler LLP. There, she practiced in the areas of public utility business and regulation and computer and Internet law, actually pioneering the cyberlaw practice at Bricker & Eckler in 1995. She is currently a partner at Christensen of Christensen Christensen Donchatz Kettlewell & Owens. She has served the community in varying capacities over the years, including contributions to the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Garden, the Columbus Chamber Music Society and the National Wildlife Federation-Ohio climate change project.

We hope you'll join us in thanking them for their time and dedication to PWC!

Clermont Communty Press Features PWC's Modifications for Mobility Program

Posted on September 01, 2009 by shannan

PWC's Modifications for Mobility is a critical program, targeting complicated home modification projects that are typically too expensive for its low-income, disabled clients. Modifications made under this program assist some of our most vulnerable clients, improving their daily mobility and independence.  

If you picked up the Clermont Community Press paper last week you may have seen the article on 87 year old Ruth Baker. Ms. Baker contacted PWC 4 years ago for help. At that time Ms. Baker struggled to get out of her home. She suffered from lung disease, and had to be on oxygen at all times. In addition to her lung disease, Ms Baker had had two knee replacements which made it extremely hard for her to move about and almost impossible for her to get up and down her front steps. 

PWC helped Ms. Baker by installing a lift. This gave her freedom and enabled her to leave her house easily and on her own.

You can read more about Ms. Baker, here.

Middletown Journal Highlights PWC's Work

Posted on August 24, 2009 by shannan

If you happen to read the Middletown Journal you may have noticed an article on one of our clients, Joyce Burns.  

Mrs. Burns is a mild diabetic and had difficulty getting around her kitchen and bathroom. PWC was able to help her get around her home by remodeling her bathroom, removing a wall and bathtub, then adding a shower. We also helped her get around better in her kitchen by replacing her kitchen sink and cabinets.

You can read the full article, here.

People Working Cooperatively Announces Chairpersons for 2010 Oscar Night America Party

Posted on August 05, 2009 by shannan

People Working Cooperatively is excited to announce Cynthia Blockson of Mt. Lookout and Jeanne Houck-Thomas of Maineville as the chairpersons for the 2010 Oscar Night America gala.

Both are long-time supporters of PWC and the annual gala, having served on the planning committee since 2000. Over the years, Cynthia and Jeanne have played large roles in coordinating the entertainment, decorations, volunteers, auction items and much more to help make the Oscar Night America party the five-star Hollywood evening it is today in the city of Cincinnati.

Next year, PWC will celebrate its 13^th year hosting the Oscar Night America party, scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 7, 2010. The event, which will evoke the theme "It came from Hollywood," will be one of only 52 official parties sanctioned by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences held across the country on Oscar Night.

More details about this year's Oscar Night America party will be coming soon to http://pwchomerepairs.org/events/annual-main-events.aspx.

Build The Ramp Photos

Posted on August 03, 2009 by shannan

If you missed our Build the Ramp Kick off event in July, check out these great photos.  For more information on the Build the Ramp or on getting involved, visit www.buildtheramp.com

Freekbass kicks off the festivities

PWC president Jock Pitts welcomes the crowd

Councilmember Chris Bortz, Fifth Third's Chris Bell and Jock Pitts

Volunteers from Fifth Third Bank constructed a ramp on Fountain Square

Skateboarders from Ollies Skate Park in Florence performed