Submitted by Cascade Connections
Cascade Connections invites our community’s support in raising $120,000 for much-needed renovations to increase accessibility at our group home. We have plans to complete two major projects that will improve the residents’ quality of life:
- Laundry Room Renovations: We need to install wheelchair-accessible counters (for folding laundry), a stainless-steel sink with a power hose, and three washer/dryer sets. These upgrades will increase residents’ independence and skills because they will be able to access the laundry room unassisted and fold their own laundry.
- Bathroom Renovations: In four bathrooms, we need new counters, mirrors, cabinets, and sinks that are accessible for people in wheelchairs. These upgrades will increase residents’ autonomy and skills by enabling them to brush their own teeth and wash their own hands.
Cascade Connections started in 1980 with our group home, Cascade Christian Home. The group home was founded with the hope that adults with disabilities could live and participate in their own community. When it was built, Cascade Christian Home (CCH) served our population very well. “Over the years, needs have changed and people are aging in place. With the current bathrooms and current laundry room, individuals can’t be independent even if they want to because of the physical barriers that are in place,” says Cascade Connections Executive Director Allison Hill.
For many residents, particularly those in wheelchairs, the layout of these spaces has limited their independence. According to Katie Buckley, CCH Assistant Site Manager, “Even the simple task of washing hands is difficult with our current set-up.” These much-needed renovations will allow residents to complete more personal care tasks independently.
“When you can do things for yourself, you feel better, you feel included, you feel empowered,” Hill says.
Please partner with us to empower these individuals. Your donations will make it possible for our residents to reach their full potential. To learn more about this essential project, please take a moment to watch our new video: https://bit.ly/cch-fundraiser
About Cascade Connections: In 2023, Cascade Connections supported 96 individuals with disabilities to live in Whatcom County. We supported 201 people with disabilities in finding or maintaining employment and created 44 new jobs by partnering with local employers. Our Training Center supported over 100 students to complete our Home Care Aide training program and become caregivers in Whatcom County. Cascade Connections cannot do this work without support from the wider community!
