Volunteer Work
- Rebuilding Together Boston
Rebuilding Together Boston Announces Project Completion with Support from Lowe’s, Sika Sarnafil and Greenwood Industries
Santa’s Here – and He’s Wearing a Tool Belt!
Dr. Fix-It, North Shore Home Care Resources and Right at Home help local family by donating home improvements and home care services.The Julien family of Danvers, MA, hit hard by serious illness and the recession, is having an easier time this holiday season, thanks to help from two North Shore businesses. Former Salem resident Raymond Julien has multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease, and has been unable to work for nearly four years. Because Ray must use a wheelchair, he needed a more handicap accessible and barrier-free kitchen that would allow him to safely and comfortably perform tasks like using the sink or loading the dishwasher.Bob Bakst, owner of Dr. Fix-It General Contractors in Swampscott, MA, and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist, donated his time and materials to make it easier for Ray to get around the house and remain at home. Dr. Fix-It installed a new sink, disposal, dishwasher, and countertops, and provided other amenities within Ray’s easy reach, applying universal design standards that make everyday activities accessible to all, no matter what their abilities. Bakst also arranged for a little extra help for Ray’s family, getting home care providers Steve McGuirk of Lynn-based North Shore Home Care Resources and Rosaleen Doherty of Salem, MA-based Right at Home to each provide five free visits. This month, Bakst is painting and installing kitchen cabinet doors and providing additional new countertops.Bakst originally heard about the Juliens’ situation through a newspaper notice about a fundraiser held at the Clifton Lutheran Church in Marblehead in February 2009. He attended the fundraiser, then visited the family at home to assess what he could do to help make the kitchen more functional for Ray. Bakst, McGuirk and Doherty, with support from another benefactor who wishes to remain anonymous, exemplify the spirit of local businesses contributing to their communities.Designated as a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) by the National Association of Home Builders, Bob Bakst is trained to provide supportive home improvement services that promote independent living for seniors who want to stay in their homes and age positively with comfort, safety and dignity. As a fully insured, Massachusetts-licensed, full-service home improvement contractor and construction supervisor who has served North Shore and Greater Boston clients for 15 years, Bakst provides quality-of-life home improvement and modification solutions that incorporate fall prevention and a “no barriers, no boundaries” approach. Bakst’s solutions accommodate all types of mobility and sensory impairments to allow people to remain at home with help from community based care, avoiding the expense of assisted living facilities and nursing homes. Dr. Fix-It offers a home safety functioning audit and survey, and provides home modifications and accessories for clients experiencing a progressive or abrupt and traumatic health-related condition.