Showing posts with label rampathon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label rampathon. Show all posts

Haller Lake multi-generational home receives free wheelchair ramp on Mother’s Day weekend

Sunday, May 26, 2024

Bean can now live in the house with her disabled father

This Mother’s Day weekend, one family received an incredibly special gift - a wheelchair ramp and walkway; designed, built, and installed at no-cost by Irons Brothers Construction, Shoreline’s local design-build firm celebrating it is 25th year in business.

Since 2006 Irons Brothers Construction, a longtime member of the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBA), has participated in Rampathon. This year philanthropist and General Manager Joseph Irons captained his 18th ramp. 

Rampathon volunteers

Enlisting more than a dozen volunteers, including employees of Irons Brothers Construction, friends, family, and colleagues, this team worked all day until the ramp was complete for the Fairbanks family of Haller Lake.

A family affair, Joseph & Melissa Irons, local Shoreline residents themselves, engage not only their skilled employees in building the ramp, but they also encourage family members to participate. 

“It’s not just a gift we are giving, we gain so much in building for others too.” Melissa Irons recounts her experience in building ramps over the years. 
"Some of our current and past volunteers include local high school students from Shorewood and Shorecrest, and several other volunteers attend annually to help with these projects.
“Helping local neighbors regain freedom through Rampathon is truly amazing to be a part of!” Melissa shares proudly.

This was the existing entrance to the home

In April, Joseph and his team began designing, planning, and coordinating the Fairbanks family’s new barrier-free entry. 

“Building a new ramp and/or walkway during a one-day philanthropic project takes time and preparation to ensure a smooth build. When building an accessible ramp we must consider the user, the type of assistive device being used (wheelchair, powerchair, walker), the other home occupants, visitors, and caregivers, and of course safety. 

"From procuring materials, labor, and equipment, to set-up and clean-up, even with several years of experience, each project has its own unique challenges. Our team of volunteers thrive at being creative and working together to create solutions each year to help families during Rampathon,” shared Joseph.

Volunteers had to break up and remove the existing walkway

On May 11, 2024, a dozen volunteers gathered to excavate, dig, and remove the existing unsafe paver and multi-level concrete walkway. They framed, formed, and poured a new, safe, and accessible, barrier-free entry and walkway with concrete.
 
Pouring concrete for the new ramp

By eliminating the current step down to the entry door and installing a graded concrete broom-finish walkway, the Fairbanks family and their guests will be able to easily navigate in and out of their home.

This year’s ramp recipient, Mr. Fairbanks is a 90-year-old disabled Veteran who uses a walker or a wheelchair. He is suffering from Prostate cancer and has heart disease and a cognitive disorder. 

His daughter, who is also in a wheelchair, has multiple conditions limiting her abilities, including Traumatic Brain Injury. With the current entrance and multiple levels to access the home, his daughter cannot live with him. Having a wheelchair ramp will allow her to move into the home and have an accessible place to live.

Smoothing the concrete

The Fairbanks' new ramp was built by removing two portions of the uneven walkway and one stair at the entry. Without stairs to maneuver, his daughter Bean will have safe access and newfound independence. This project was constructed out of easy to maintain and eye-pleasing concrete materials.

Irons Brothers Construction maintains the highest commitment to philanthropy and giving back to our local communities where we live and work. At the end of the day, the reward is when the Fairbanks family safely use their walkway and ramp to be outdoors.

The new ramp is ready for use

Since 1993, Master Builders members have contributed more than 500+ ramps to members of our King and Snohomish County communities. Thanks to the Master Builders Association and the generous donors listed below, this ramp was built at no cost to the recipient. 

We believe our neighbors in need deserve the same freedoms we have. Wheelchair access ramps are their link to our beautiful community we all share.

With two decades of involvement with Rampathon, as well as other philanthropic events sponsored by the Master Builders Association, Irons Brothers Construction is a prime example of generous builders giving back to the neighborhoods they serve.

Special recognition to donors for the 2024 ramp include:
  • Irons Brothers Construction, Inc. for volunteer labor, tools, and materials
  • Green Latrine for their sani-can donation
  • Junkzilla for hauling away the debris
Learn more about Rampathon here

Irons Brothers Construction is celebrating 25 years of business in 2024 with their Design + Build Center. 

They specialize in universal design, aging in place remodeling, and the highest construction practices. 

Company owners, Joseph & Melissa Irons, and their team, have their Certified Aging in Place Specialist designations (CAPS) thru the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and Certified Living in Place Professional certifications (CLIPP) thru the Living in Place Institute. In each remodel they incorporate these principles when possible. 

Photos courtesy of: Irons Brothers Construction


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Retired North Seattle teacher receives free wheelchair ramp on Mother’s Day weekend

Thursday, May 25, 2023

Recipient Kathleen thanks the Irons Brothers crew who built her new ramp

Ramp Captain Joseph Irons, President of Irons Brothers Construction in Shoreline, and his team of employees and skilled volunteers built a free wheelchair access-ramp for a local Lake City resident. 

Joseph, along with his team, began their work in April by designing, planning, and coordinating the recipient’s new concrete walkway. 

Construction of a walkway / ramp as a part of a one-day philanthropy build is not an easy task, and a lot of time and pre-planning is required.
 
May 13, 2023, beginning at 7:30am, 18 volunteers from Irons Brothers Construction’s team began excavating, digging, and removing concrete and dirt.

Their team of family, friends, employees, and trade partners formed and poured a new landing and walkway. 

The new broom-finished concrete walkway is now barrier-free and looks great too!

This philanthropic project is a part of the Master Builders of King -Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) Rampathon program, celebrating its 30th anniversary. 

This is Irons Brothers Construction’s 17th annual Rampathon build.

This year’s ramp recipient Kathleen has five children and several grandkids who visit her frequently. 

With the new ramp, venturing out of the house will be easier with her scooter. 

Kathleen’s daughter told Joseph and Melissa that the gift of the new walkway on Mother’s Day weekend means the world to her Mom and their family. 

They are looking forward to upcoming summer gatherings where Kathleen can join them without having any obstacles to overcome.

Kathleen’s new ramp was built by removing the two sets of stairs at either end of her existing concrete walkway. 

She uses this walkway to get from her front door to the yard and out to the street where her car is parked.

Now without stairs to maneuver, Kathleen will have safe access and newfound independence. 

This project was constructed out of easy to maintain and eye-pleasing concrete materials.

'We are fortunate that our craftsman and volunteers helped to improve her daily life."
Irons Brothers employees, family, and friends
 
“We are proud to have used our building skills over the past 17 years to help local community members. Each year our volunteers come away from the event with a full heart. The ramp build has a positive impact on the recipient’s life and on ours. 
"Since 2006, Irons Brothers Construction has volunteered hundreds of hours of time to build 17 free wheelchair ramps through the MBA’s Rampathon program.” stated Joseph Irons.
 
Rampathon

Irons Brothers Construction maintains the highest commitment to philanthropy and giving back to our local communities where we live and work. At the end of the day, the reward is when Kathleen safely used her walkway - ramp to be outdoors.

Throughout April, May, June, and July, Kathleen, along with many other families throughout King and Snohomish Counties will be the recipients of a free wheelchair ramp built as part of the Master Builders Association’s Rampathon Event.

2023 marks 30 years of the annual Rampathon event. Since 1993, Master Builders members have contributed more than 500 ramps to members of our King and Snohomish County communities. 

Thanks to the Master Builders Association and the generous donors listed below, this ramp was built at no cost to the recipient. We believe our neighbors in need deserve the same freedoms we have. Wheelchair access ramps are their link to our beautiful community we all share.

Joseph and Melissa Irons, along with an army of staff and volunteers are passionate about helping others in their community. With almost two decades of involvement in Rampathon®, as well as other events sponsored by the Master Builders Association, Irons Brothers Construction is a wonderful example of dedicated builders giving back to the neighborhoods they serve.

Special recognition to donors for the 2023 ramp include:
  • Irons Brothers Construction, Inc. for volunteer labor, tools, and materials
  • HD Solutions for volunteer labor and tools for the concrete walkway
  • Green Latrine for their sani-can donation
  • Junkzilla for hauling away the debris
Learn more about Rampathon HERE

Irons Brothers Construction, Inc.
Irons Brothers Construction is celebrating 24 years of business in 2023 with their Design + Build Center showroom located at 1510 NE 170th St., Shoreline, WA 98155. Here they display universal design, aging in place remodeling, and best construction practices. 

Company owners Joseph and Melissa Irons and their team have their Certified Aging in Place Specialist designations (CAPS) thru the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and Certified Living in Place Professional certifications (CLIPP) thru the Living in Place Institute. 

In each remodel they incorporate universal design principles and practices when possible. For more information about builder Captain, Joseph Irons and Irons Brothers Construction visit www.ironsbc.com.

Photos courtesy of: Irons Brothers Construction. 

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Shoreline remodeler builds freedom for a family during Rampathon©

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Crew poses with recipient and her mother

Photos courtesy Irons Brothers Construction

Ramp Captain Joseph Irons, President of Irons Brothers Construction, and his team of employees and skilled volunteers are building their 16th free wheelchair access ramp for a local Echo Lake resident. 

Joseph and his team began their work last week by excavating, forming, and pouring a 40-foot linear concrete walkway. On Monday, the team of volunteers returned to build the platform landing, door transition, and railings onto the home and ramp walkway. 

This philanthropic project is a part of the Master Builders of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) Rampathon program.

Three Guys Concrete were part of the project
This year’s ramp recipient Laurel has contracted a rare disease that has left her unable to walk. She cannot currently work and has returned home to live with her mother, Mary who is on a fixed retirement income. 

They could not afford the cost of building a ramp on their own and are so grateful for this project. 

With a wheelchair ramp, Laurel will be able to easily enter and exit her Mother’s home for the many appointments and therapy sessions she needs to fully recover.

The home’s doorway leads to two sets of four steps which are obstacles to enter and exit, as well as being barriers in an emergency. 

The Irons Brothers Construction team designed a wheelchair ramp installation that will help this homeowner, her elderly mother, and the visiting nurse services to come and go from the house.

“Since our first Rampathon build in Shoreline, May 2006, we have helped numerous other companies design and build ramps to make this program successful, including being past Chair of the MBA’s Rampathon committee,” says Irons.  
"With in-person assistance being negatively impacted by COVID-19 restrictions, we are honored to use our building skills to help others.” Joseph Irons, 2022 President of the Building Industry Association of Washington (BIAW).

The new walkway goes all the way to the street
The new wheelchair ramp was built from her doorway out to the parking in front of her home. This will create safe access to her front yard, the new concrete walkway, and the car. This project will be constructed out of easy to maintain and eye-pleasing materials.
 
The ramp site construction crew includes 15 volunteers, including Irons Brothers Construction’s staff, Risk Insurance Services’ staff, Three Guys Concrete, Salmon Bay Sand and Gravel, Dunn Lumber, and their colleagues, friends, and family.

2022 marks the 29th anniversary of the annual Rampathon event. Since 1993, Master Builders members have contributed more than 500 ramps to members of our King and Snohomish County communities.

This year, Irons Brothers Construction, based in Shoreline WA participates in its 18th Rampathon. 

Thanks to the Master Builders Association and the generous donors listed below, this ramp was built at no cost to the recipient. 

Special recognition to donors for this recipient’s ramp include:
  • Irons Brothers Construction, Inc. for volunteer labor and materials
  • Risk Insurance Services for volunteer labor and nourishment
  • Three Guys Construction for volunteer labor to build the concrete walkway
  • Salmon Bay Sand and Gravel for their concrete donation
  • Dunn Lumber for lumber material donations
Learn more about Rampathon here www.rampathon.org



Irons Brothers Construction is celebrating 23 years of business in 2022 with their Design + Build Center showroom located at 1510 NE 170th St., Shoreline, WA 98155

Here they display universal design, aging in place remodeling, and best construction practices. 

Company owners, Joseph and Melissa Irons and their team, have their Certified Aging in Place Specialist designations (CAPS) through the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and Certified Living in Place Professional certifications (CLIPP) thru the Living in Place Institute. 



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Rampathon: Ashworth Homes builds accessibility ramp for Edmonds resident

Saturday, October 16, 2021

Ashworth Homes team poses with their completed ramp

On Saturday, September 25, 2021 Ashworth Homes had the pleasure of granting a Ramp wish to a 74-year-old Edmonds resident for the 2021 MBAKS Rampathon.

Mr. Selmer could not safely navigate his original stairs

Mr. Selmer fell and suffered a traumatic brain injury. He has permanent damage and disabilities sustained from the fall, making navigating his stairs difficult and dangerous.

Ramp Captains Corey Mosey and Robert McMurtry

Ramp Captains Corey Mosey and Robert McMurtry designed a ramp that will allow him to safely walk out of his home and into a vehicle. The entire Ashworth team backed them up for a fantastic day of collaboration, teamwork, and volunteering.

The Ashworth Team at work on the ramp

We look forward to this event every year, and are grateful to the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) for coordinating it. 

Rampathon is an annual event where members of MBAKS head to homes to build ramps for families throughout King and Snohomish counties. Since 1993, MBAKS members have built more than 500 ramps. Applications for next year will be available in January 2022.

The team pauses mid-build for a photo

Ashworth Homes is a local residential builder based in Shoreline. For more than 19 years, we have supported local foundations, schools, and community celebrations and clean up events. We are blessed with employees who continually rise to the occasion not only on the job, but for community support as well.



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Shoreline builder helps a neighbor in need

Thursday, September 23, 2021

Under construction now - a ramp for a 
Shoreline resident
Ramp Captain Joseph Irons, President of Irons Brothers Construction, and his team of employees and skilled volunteers have designed and have begun building a free wheelchair access-ramp for a local Ridgecrest resident. 

Joseph and his team began their work early Wednesday morning and will return to finish the ramp on Saturday, September 25, 2021 all of this being part of the Master Builders of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) Rampathon program.

This year’s ramp recipient suffers from instability and has difficulty walking after having multiple back procedures. For her to ambulate down the current steps requires the use of 2 canes or crutches.

“Just the two steps are hard for me. I have fallen out of my door and down the steps a few times. It is a real struggle to pull myself back up. 
"I also suffer from severe foot drop and edema all of which make it extremely difficult to get around. “ J.R., Shoreline resident.

Unfortunately her home’s doorway and front steps have become obstacles for her to use and with a wheelchair ramp, she intends to use a power chair. The Irons Brothers Construction team designed a wheelchair ramp installation with their skills and expertise that will help this resident regain access to come and go from her home.

On the job in Shoreline, Irons Brothers staff and vounteers build a new ramp.

“During Covid-19, the need for access is even greater. Not being able to maintain independence is a significant struggle for this homeowner. With in-person assistance being negatively impacted by Covid-19 restrictions, we are honored to use our carpentry skills to help.” Joseph Irons, 1st Vice-Chair of the Building Industry Association of Washington (BIAW).

The new wheelchair ramp will be built from her doorway out onto the grass landing with pavers that connect to the existing walkway. This will create safe access to her back yard, walkway, and car. 

It also allows for her to enjoy the garden and her outdoor spaces and watch her playful cats. This project will be constructed out of easy to maintain and eye-pleasing materials. 

We are so glad that our craftsman and volunteers are helping to change this local resident’s daily life.

The recipient is joyful and appreciative of the work that Irons Brothers Construction has agreed to do on her behalf. With this new access, she is looking forward to enjoying her improved way of life. This free wheelchair ramp is being built as part of the Master Builders Association’s 28th year of Rampathon.

On Saturday, September 25, 2021, J.R., along with many other families throughout King and Snohomish Counties will be the recipients of a free wheelchair ramp built as part of the Master Builders Association’s Rampathon Event. 

The ramp site construction will begin early around 8am - with about 15 volunteers, including Irons Brothers Construction’s staff, American Insurance Associates’ staff, trade partners, colleagues, friends, and family. 

Irons Brothers Construction maintains the highest commitment to philanthropy and giving back to the local community. At the end of the day, the reward is when J.R. can safely use her ramp to be outdoors.

2021 marks the 28th anniversary of the annual Rampathon event. 

Since 1993, Master Builders members have contributed more than 500 ramps to members of our King and Snohomish County communities. 

This year, Irons Brothers Construction, based in Shoreline, WA will participate in its 17th Rampathon. Thanks to the Master Builders Association and the generous donors listed below, this ramp was built at no cost to the recipient. 

"We believe our neighbors in need deserve the same freedoms we have. Wheelchair access ramps are their link to our beautiful community we all share"

Joseph and Melissa Irons, along with an army of staff and volunteers, are passionate about helping others in their community. With over a decade of involvement in Rampathon®, as well as other events sponsored by the Master Builders Association, Irons Brothers Construction is a wonderful example of dedicated builders giving back to the neighborhoods they serve. 

“That’s what Rampathon is all about.” Says, Melissa Irons, Vice-Chair of the Master Builders Association’s Remodelers' Council.


Special recognition to donors for this recipient’s ramp include:

  • Irons Brothers Construction, Inc. for volunteer labor and materials
  • American Insurance Associations for volunteer labor and nourishment
  • Dunn Lumber for lumber material donations

To learn more about Rampathon visit www.rampathon.org

Irons Brothers Construction, Inc.

Irons Brothers Construction is celebrating 22 years of business in 2021 with their Design + Build Center showroom located at 1510 NE 170th St., Shoreline, WA 98155

Here they showcase universal design, aging in place remodeling, and best construction practices. Company owners Joseph and Melissa Irons and their team have their Certified Aging in Place Specialist designations (CAPS) thru the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and Certified Living in Place Professional certifications (CLIPP) thru the Living in Place Institute. 

In each remodel they incorporate universal design principles and practices when possible. For more information about builder captain, Joseph Irons and Irons Brothers Construction visit www.ironsbc.com.

Photos courtesy of: Irons Brothers Construction. Featuring the recipient home’s current condition and in-construction progress photos.



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Do you know someone who needs a wheelchair ramp?

Wednesday, March 4, 2020


The Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish counties is accepting applications for Rampathon, its annual event where construction companies volunteer to construct wheelchair ramps.

There has been at least one ramp built in Shoreline every year and sometimes as many as three.

The ramps provide freedom and ease for people who cannot get out of their own homes because of physical barriers such as steps.

The deadline for applications is March 9th and they are still looking for more people to build ramps for. The link to apply is here.

More information on Rampathon can be found here.



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Second Rampathon build gives Shoreline resident the freedom to move about

Sunday, May 19, 2019

The crew from Jackson Design Build is ready to work
Photo courtesy Jackson Design Build


Each year, Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish (MBAKS) members and community volunteers head to homes throughout King and Snohomish counties to build wheelchair access ramps. For free. 

Because our neighbors in need deserve the same freedoms we have.

Photo courtesy Jackson Design Build


Since 1993, members have provided more than 500 ramps during Rampathon. These ramps provide a much-needed benefit for individuals and families who struggle to get themselves or their loved ones safely in and out of their homes.

This year member organizations built 40 ramps, including two in Shoreline. (See previous article about the ramp built by Shoreline-based Irons BC).

Photo courtesy Jackson Design Build


The second ramp was built by Jackson Design Build, based in Ballard and serving north Seattle. 

The ramp was constructed for Shoreline resident Lydia Arguelles. Lydia had a heart attack in 2017 and has severe arthritis in her hips and lower spine. She has difficulty walking up her stairs without assistance.

She now has a ramp which is safe for her to use with her wheelchair - a relief for her and her family.



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Shoreline resident benefits from the generosity of others

Sophia poses with Irons BC crew
More sections of the railing were installed after this photo

On Saturday, May 18, 2019, Shoreline resident Sophia along with approximately 40 other families throughout King and Snohomish Counties were the recipients of a free wheelchair ramp built as part of the Master Builders Association’s Rampathon Event. 
 
Ramp Captain Joseph Irons, General Manager of Irons Brothers Construction and Past President of the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBA), along with his team of employees and skilled volunteers, designed and constructed a free wheelchair access ramp for the Richmond Highlands resident.

Sophia, who suffered a stroke in her late 20s, uses a power chair to get around her home. She lives at the home of her mother Erica, who is also her full-time caregiver.

Sophia originally had two makeshift ramps to get off the porch
and onto the brick walkway
 
Unfortunately, the entry to the residence had barriers which made it difficult to enter and exit safely using her power chair.

In April, the team from Irons Brothers Construction, including Production Manager, Cody Ross, met with Erica and Sophia and developed a design and construction plan to create a safe and accessible wheelchair ramp at their front entry.

Fortunately, Sophia has full use of the chair inside her home, and now, with a new ramp her Mother and other personnel can attend to her needs, especially in an emergency. 

Working and having fun, too.


To build her ramp, the IronsBC team began their staging and prep work for the construction on the afternoon of Friday, May 17th.

Sophia’s ramp consists of a two-step platform that transitions onto their existing brick walkway. On Saturday, the team completed the ramp by adding the platforms, a handrail, concrete landing, and other finish details. 

As the ramp is adjacent to their driveway, the team formed and poured a concrete landing pad for smooth transition. A portion of the ramp was built over their existing deck, which was used as a framing foundation and also salvage materials.

The ramp consists of cedar pressure-treated material and plywood. A handrail was added to one side and a curb on the opposite side for safety.

Joseph Irons takes a selfie!
 

Sophia and Erica maintain a joyful and positive spirit and are very appreciative of the work that Irons Brothers Construction is doing on their behalf. With this new access, Sophia is looking forward to enjoying the outdoors this summer.

This free wheelchair ramp is being built in cooperation with the Master Builders Association’s 26th anniversary philanthropic project, Rampathon.

The project was constructed out of easy to maintain and eye-pleasing materials donated by Dunn Lumber and Irons Brothers Construction.

Said Melissa Irons, "This project is just one small way that our craftsman and volunteers can help impact a local neighbor’s life for the better."

IronsBC maintains the highest commitment to philanthropy and giving back to the local community. At the end of the day, the reward is when Sophia can safely use her power chair outdoors. 

Joseph and Melissa Irons, along with the IBC family of staff and volunteers are passionate about helping others in their community and have been involved in Rampathon® over the past 13 years. 

Irons Brothers Construction is Committed to Enriching Lives in Our Community with Caring and Craftsmanship.

Special recognition to donors for the 2019 ramp include:
  • Irons Brothers Construction, Inc. for volunteer labor and materials
  • Dunn Lumber for lumber and concrete donation
  • American Insurance Associates for volunteer labor and food

Irons Brothers Construction is celebrating 20 years of business in 2019 with their Design + Build Center showroom located at 1510 NE 170th St, in Shoreline's North City Business District. 

Here they showcase universal design, aging in place remodeling, and best construction practices. Company owner, Joseph Irons and team, have their Certified Aging in Place Specialist designations (CAPS) thru the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and Certified Living in Place Professional certifications (CLIPP) thru the Living in Place Institute. In each remodel they incorporate universal design principles and practices when possible.

Photos courtesy of Irons Brothers Construction.



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Do you need a free wheelchair ramp? Open call for Rampathon applications

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Professional construction workers volunteer to build ramps
during Rampathon.


Do you know someone in need of a free wheelchair ramp?


The Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties would like to help.

For 25 years, local residential builders have built free wheelchair ramps in King and Snohomish Counties for our neighbors in need through Rampathon.

If someone you know needs help with access to their home, visit Rampathon.org and complete an application or call 425-460-8232.

Since 1993, our members have constructed more than 500 ramps. These ramps provide a much-needed benefit for individuals and families who struggle to get themselves or their loved ones safely in and out of their homes.

Applications are being accepted now through March 8, 2019.

Founded in 1909, the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties has grown to become the largest residential homebuilders association in the United States. With nearly 3,000 member companies, the association is dedicated to membership value, housing advocacy, community service, and financial stewardship throughout the Puget Sound region.


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Do you know someone who needs a wheelchair ramp? Call for Rampathon applications

Thursday, January 3, 2019

Rampathon crew
Photo courtesy MBAKS



CALL FOR RAMPATHON APPLICATIONS

Do you know someone in need of a free wheelchair ramp? The Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties would like to help. 

For 25 years, local residential builders have built free wheelchair ramps for our neighbors in need through Rampathon. If someone you know needs help with access to their home, please visit Rampathon.org and complete an application or call 425-460-8232.

Since 1993, our members have constructed more than 500 ramps. These ramps provide a much-needed benefit for individuals and families who struggle to get themselves or their loved ones safely in and out of their homes.

Applications are being accepted now through March 1, 2019.

ABOUT MBAKS

Founded in 1909, the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties has grown to become the largest residential homebuilders association in the United States. With nearly 3,000 member companies, the association is dedicated to membership value, housing advocacy, community service, and financial stewardship throughout the Puget Sound region.



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Rampathon: Ashworth Homes builds ramp for 12 year old girl

Monday, May 21, 2018

Ashworth crew with new ramp

On May 19, 2018 the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) celebrated 25 years of Rampathon, an inspiring community event where volunteers build free wheelchair access ramps to improve mobility for families throughout King and Snohomish counties. Since 1993, more than 450 ramps have been built and over 30,000 of volunteer hours donated by local builders. This year, MBAKS and its member volunteers constructed a whopping 48 ramps, built by 39 teams.


Ashworth Homes of Shoreline was honored to build this year’s Spotlight Ramp for 12-year-old Camille Jefferson.

Camille is joyful about her new freedom

Camille has a rare genetic disorder called Angelman syndrome that affects her ability to walk and talk. She also requires 24-hour care. Angelman syndrome causes severe seizures and an obsession with water. The latter provides Camille sensory input and the ability to move around more freely. As Camille has grown, however, it has become more difficult for her parents to carry her safely into the on-site therapy pool, the only place she feels secure to move around without getting hurt and the only place where the family can spend time together. Simply put, building a free ramp gives Camille and her family access to the place they find joy.

Camille cuts the ribbon

The ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring Camille and family happened on Thursday, May 17. Speakers included MBAKS Director of Programs and Products Aaron Adelstein, Dunn Lumber’s Kathryn Coshow, MBAKS Executive Director Kathleen Sims, Ashworth Homes President Erich Armbruster, and Camille’s dad, Jody Jefferson. King County Councilman Rod Dembowski was on hand to celebrate the ramp build.

Speakers at the ceremony included representatives from partner organizations
 

Ashworth Homes is a Shoreline-based Built Green homebuilder owned by MBAKS’ board president Erich Armbruster. This year’s Ramp Captain was Don Morrell, backed up by the full Ashworth team. Materials to build the ramps are donated by Dunn Lumber, and Ashworth was fortunate to have skirting donated by Marquis, making the ramp not only functional, but beautiful.

The old stairs were sturdy but not accessible

The ramp is actually safer than the stairs were, and her Mom will be able to get her into the pool without the help of her Dad now. It is built so that her chair can go up to the top and she can be moved to sit on the side of the water and swing her legs in without being dragged backwards.

In addition to being a premier residential builder in the Puget Sound region, Ashworth Homes is also an adamant supporter of community building activities. For more than 15 years, Ashworth Homes has supported local foundations, schools, and community celebrations and clean up events. This is the 6th year Ashworth Homes has constructed a ramp in concert with MBAKS.

5-23-2018  Updated with information about stairs

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Rampathon: Irons Brothers builds free ramp for Shoreline resident

Irons Brothers' staff, trade partners, colleagues, friends, and family
built this ramp for a Shoreline resident to get into her back yard
Photo courtesy Irons Brother


On May 19, the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) celebrated 25 years of Rampathon, an inspiring community event where volunteers build free wheelchair access ramps to improve mobility for families throughout King and Snohomish counties.

This year, MBAKS and its member volunteers constructed 50 ramps, which would be the most ever built during a single Rampathon event.

Materials to build the ramps are donated by Dunn Lumber. Since 1993, more than 450 ramps have been built with over 30,000 of volunteer hours donated by local builders.

Ramp Captain Joseph Irons, President of Irons Brothers Construction and Past-President of the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBA), along with his entire team of employees and skilled volunteers designed and constructed a free wheelchair access-ramp for a local Richmond Highlands resident on Saturday, May 19, 2018.

The homeowner was unable to safely access her back yard
Photo courtesy Irons Brothers
 

Lynn, who suffers from a genetic condition which affects all the bones in her body and causes her joints to disintegrate over time, cannot currently go outside safely. When traveling away from her home she uses a scooter for mobility. Her home doorways are too narrow for the electric scooter to maneuver so she utilizes crutches to navigate from room to room. Lynn has adapted her master suite to accommodate her abilities but is unable to pass through the bedroom door into the backyard as there was currently no safe access.

The Irons Brothers team designed her ramp to exceed simple backyard access. A 5’x 8’ landing off of her bedroom door includes a 27” high handrail that is lower than the typical code railing height but has been calculated for a safe height for her to use.

The ramp allows the resident to access her back yard.
She can enjoy her outdoor space, water her garden and
watch her two playful Pomeranians
Photo courtesy Irons Brothers

Additionally, the landing area will be bordered on either side by a 8’ long ramp to the west and five 18” stair treads to the east side. The ramp team will also connect to her existing west concrete patio with a new concrete walkway. All of this not only creates safe access to her back yard, but it allows for her to enjoy her outdoor space, water her garden and watch her two playful Pomeranians.

Lynn maintains a joyful and positive spirit and is very appreciative of the work that Irons Brothers Construction has agreed to do on her behalf. With this new access, Lynn is looking forward enjoying her home and an improved way of life. This free wheel-chair ramp is being built as part of the Master Builders Association’s 25th anniversary philanthropic project, Rampathon.

This project was constructed out of easy to maintain and eye-pleasing materials and is just one small way that the local craftsman and volunteers from Irons Brothers' staff, trade partners, colleagues, friends, and family helped to change a local resident’s daily life.

Irons Brothers Construction maintains the highest commitment to philanthropy and giving back to the local community. At the end of the day, the reward is that Lynn can safely use her crutches to be outdoors.

Joseph and Melissa Irons, along with an army of staff and volunteers are passionate about helping others in their community. With over a decade of involvement in Rampathon®, as well as other events sponsored by the Master Builders Association, Irons Brothers Construction is a wonderful example of dedicated builders giving back to the neighborhoods they serve.

Special recognition to donors for this recipient’s ramp include:
  • Irons Brothers Construction, Inc. for volunteer labor and materials
  • Dunn Lumber for lumber and concrete material donations


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