Rick’s Fencing and Partners Build a Donated Acrylite Patio Cover & Safety Railing and Deck to Grant Outdoor Sanctuary for Vancouver Teen, Rex

The Dedication of the Project — Rick’s Custom Fencing & Decking Construction Team, Make-a-Wish, and Rex’s Family
With heavy hearts, we share that Rex—the incredible kid whose Make-A-Wish deck we were honored to build—has passed away.
We are deeply grateful that together with his family and our friends at Make-A-Wish, we were able to create a joyful space that will continue to hold his memory and the love of all who gather there.
Project Overview
Rick’s Custom Fencing & Decking has teamed up with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Oregon to create a safe and joyful outdoor space for Rex, a 15-year-old from Vancouver, Washington.
Rex lives with a nervous system disorder that leaves him non-verbal and non-ambulatory, but he lights up when he’s in the sunshine. His family shared that his happiest moments are when he’s outside, and together we’re transforming his small back deck into a safe, shaded sanctuary where he can enjoy the outdoors every day.
The Wish: Rex’s Outdoor Sanctuary
To turn Rex’s 10’x12’ deck into a year-round retreat, Rick’s and its partners are donating time, materials, and expertise:
- Acrylite Patio Cover – Donated 100% by American Patio Cover, this innovative cover provides bright, UV-protected outdoor living. It blocks harmful rays while allowing natural light to shine through, ensuring Rex can safely enjoy sunshine without overheating.
- Safety Railings – Donated by Rick’s aluminum railing partner AS&D, these sturdy railings provide safety and enclosure so Rex can relax securely in his outdoor space.
- New Decking – Donated by Rick’s Custom Fencing & Decking, ensuring a safe, smooth, and durable foundation for Rex’s outdoor sanctuary.
This collaborative build ensures that Rex’s space will be safe, bright, and accessible — a true reflection of his love for sunshine and the outdoors.
Quotes
“This project is about more than building a deck — it’s about building an outdoor sanctuary that will bring joy to Rex’s life. We’re honored to partner with Acrylite, AS&D, and Make-A-Wish to create a safe outdoor space for Rex that he and his family can enjoy together.”
– Taylor Stanley, VP Marketing
“We rely solely on the generosity of the public and community partners to move our mission forward, and Rex’s wish would not have been possible without our friends at Rick’s Custom Fencing & Decking, Inc. Their team gave their time, talent, and full hearts to make his biggest dream come true. This is the power of community, and it is incredible to see that spirit of hope come to life for Rex and his family. We’re so grateful.”
– Kaitlyn Bolduc, VP of Marketing and Communications.

Make-a-Wish Team with Rex.

The Deck built by Rick’s Custom Fencing & Decking for Rex

The finished deck built by Rick’s Custom Fencing & Decking for Rex
About the Partners
Rick’s Custom Fencing & Decking
For over 45 years, Rick’s has been helping Pacific Northwest families create beautiful and functional outdoor spaces. With a passion for community and craftsmanship, Rick’s proudly supports local projects that improve lives and bring people together.
American Patio Cover
A global leader in high-quality acrylic solutions, American Patio Cover’s Acrylite’s patio cover provides durable, UV-protected light transmission for safe, comfortable outdoor living. Acrylite generously donated the cover for Rex’s wish.
AS&D (Aluminum Systems & Design)
AS&D is a trusted manufacturer and partner in aluminum railing systems. Their donated railing ensures Rex’s deck will be a safe, secure space for years to come.
Make-A-Wish Foundation of Oregon
Make-A-Wish creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Their mission is to bring hope, strength, and joy to families when they need it most.