1,000 HOMES REPAIRED

Nonprofit that repairs homes for low-income families hits milestone

PHOENIXVILLE » In the backyard of John and Jamie Schaffer’s residence in Phoenixville, friends of Good Works Inc. gathered late last week to celebrate the completion of the extensive repairs made to the Schaffer’s home over the past year.

Good Works repairs homes for low-income families throughout central and northern Chester County and conducts these dedication ceremonies each time they complete a home. But, this ceremony was unique because this was Good Works 1,000th home completed.

“We complete 50 homes annually,” said Executive Director Bob Beggs, “and each ceremony is bittersweet because of the deep relationships that form between the families and the volunteers who serve.”

Early in the repair process, Good Works Operations Director Russ Herrick discovered that the furnace exhaust flue was venting into the basement instead of the chimney.

“I am amazed that John and Jamie weren’t asphyxiated,” Herrick said, “and I immediately called for the assistance of our professional repair technicians who tore out the old furnace and installed a new, high-efficiency gas heater and repaired the chimney.”

Following the dedication ceremony, the event refocused on celebrating Good Works’ 32-year history and 1,000 homes completed milestone.

Multiple local elected officials participated including state Sen.

Andy Dinniman, who recognized the spiritual motivation that drives Good Works and the quality of service the organization provides its clients.

Chester County Commissioners Marion Moskowitz, Michele Kichline and Josh Maxwell each shared stories of how Good Works positive impact in their lives and that of the community.

Mayor Peter Urscheler added his commendation and praise of the work done for the residents of Phoenixville.

Bob Beggs shared how the COVID-19 crisis continues to affect local families forcing people to quarantine in substandard homes that are more hazardous than the virus itself.

Good Works staff has worked through the virus addressing the life-sustaining and urgent needs of desperate homeowners, and the backlog of requests for assistance continues to grow.

“The need is great, and we need volunteers to re-engage as soon as possible,” Beggs said. “God gives all of us the task of alleviating poverty in our communities. By serving together, we get to connect with our neighbors, break down social and economic barriers, walk alongside and show compassion for people who are struggling and to learn to love each other as He loves us.”

Then pointing to a large banner showing a cross comprised of 1,000 homes he said, “Each of those little icons represents real houses with real families and each of them was provided the gift of a repaired home and renewed hope. One thousand homes — God did that.”

“By serving together, we get to connect with our neighbors, break down social and economic barriers, walk alongside and show compassion for people who are struggling and to learn to love each other as He loves us.” — Executive Director Bob Beggs

SUBMITTED PHOTO Bob Beggs, Good Works Inc. executive director, presents John and Jamie Schaffer a painting by Bryn Gillette entitled “The Essence of Good Works.” Pictured from left are: Chester County Commissioner Marion Moskowitz; Phoenixville Mayor Peter Urscheler; state Sen. Andy Dinniman; John Schaffer; Jamie Schaffer; Bob Beggs; and Chester County Commissioners Michele Kichline and Commissioner Josh Maxwell.