State of Repairs Blog
Posted on February 03, 2012 by pwcstaff
February 26 marks the 15th 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!
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 15th 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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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 Pi
tts 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.
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
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 24th Annual Prepare Affair!
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
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 24th 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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
Posted on August 19, 2011 by staci
Good things have been happening at PWC this week. On Monday, 112 golfers hit the course for 7th 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
2nd 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!
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 35th year in operation was certainly one to remember!
Happy reading!
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!
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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!
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.
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."
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 7th 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!
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 29th 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 14th 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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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!
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.
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:
With all the positive energy moving us forward, we're geared up and ready for Fall and this year's Prepare Affair!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 35th 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 35th 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.
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 28th 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 35th 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.
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.
Posted on April 02, 2010 by shannan
Repair Affair is right around the corner, and we're looking for young professionals who want to team up and join a home repair crew! Join us Saturday May 8 at locations throughout greater Cincinnati, northern Kentucky and southern Indiana as we help our elderly and disabled neighbors with home repairs.
You'll be helping with everything from simple maintenance to ramp building, and you can work with your own crew of friends and co-workers or we will find a group for you! For more information or to sign up please visit
www.pwchomerepairs.com/repair affair or you can call Sara or Rachel at (513)351-7921 for more information! Repair Affair is sponsored by the City of Cincinnati, The Home Depot and other community organizations. For a complete list of sponsors or to volunteer, visit
www.PWChomerepairs.org.
Posted on April 02, 2010 by shannan
PWC's Oscar Night America 2010, Humana's "It Came From Hollywood", raised $130,000 for the Modifications for Mobility Program! The event featured WCPO's Steve Raleigh and Hagit Limor, screaming fans, silent auction and the Academy Awards Live on our giant screens. A paddle raiser for our client Clayton resulted in $23,000 alone!
Thanks to all of our sponsors, patrons, donors and volunteers for making this a very special evening for a very worthy cause.
For photos of the event, please visit People Working Cooperatively's
Facebook page!
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.
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!
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 13th 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.
Posted on February 02, 2010 by shannan
Why stay home and watch the Oscars when you can join us and support a good cause!
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!!
Posted on December 18, 2009 by shannan
It's hard to believe but Oscar Night is just around the corner (March 7th) and that means so is our Oscar Night America party. Themed "It Came From Hollywood" the black tie affair is once again set to be an amazing night! We hope you will each consider joining us.
Here are the details:
What: It Came From Hollywood, Cincinnati’s only official Oscar Night America party benefiting People Working Cooperatively.
When: Sunday, March 7, 2010; 5:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Where: Hilton's Carew Tower Arcade (35 West Fifth Street)
Cost: $150 per person; After party tickets available for $20; Raffle tickets: $25 each or 5/$100
Info: For general information, visit www.pwchomerepairs.org; For sponsorship information, contact Chris Owens at (513) 351-7921
The 13th Annual Oscar Night America gala, themed It Came From Hollywood, will benefit PWC, a non-profit organization providing critical home repair, weatherization and maintenance services to low-income and disabled homeowners in Southwestern Ohio, Indiana and Northern Kentucky. The March 7th gala is part of Oscar Night America (ONA) - the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (A.M.P.A.S.) official Oscar event.
PWC is the only organization to bring the real Academy Awards® to Cincinnati, live on a big screen. Held at the Carew Tower Arcade, the five-star Hollywood evening features a red carpet welcome, cocktails, entertainment, appetizers, a three-course gourmet meal, and emcees from WCPO-TV and the Academy Awards. Attendees are invited to participate in silent and live auctions, door prizes and raffles.
In 2009, PWC’s Oscar Night gala raised a record-breaking $130,000, placing it as one of the most successful Oscar Night events in the country. All proceeds will benefit People Working Cooperatively and its efforts to support local homeowners in need of critical home repair.
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!
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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!
Posted on November 18, 2009 by shannan
Following a successful Prepare Affair event on Saturday, November 14th, 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:
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Cheviot
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Delhi Township
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Green Township
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Saylor Park
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Westwood
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Miami Township
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Harrison
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Northbend
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Whitewater Township
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Forest Park
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Springfield Township
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Lincoln Heights
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Reading
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Monroe
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Springboro
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Blanchester
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Glendale
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Sharonville
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Lockland
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Reading
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Woodlawn
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College Hill
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Madisonville
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Corryville
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Mt Auburn
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Over-The-Rhine
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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!
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."
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 22nd 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.
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!
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.
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.
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 13th 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.
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