During the last couple of years, those in the construction industry have had no shortage of work. From new home construction to remodels and additions, it seems like there’s no end in sight. But it’s also been a time when many contractors have felt the call to give back. Organizations like the Home Builder’s Foundation have been busier than ever helping to connect non-profits with construction needs to those businesses equipped to help – like us!

HBF’s latest project sees a huge expansion in youth services in the Beaverton area with the finishing of a new 5,000-square-foot building for local non-profit HomePlate. HomePlate serves young people ages 12-24 who are experiencing any type of housing instability. In Washington County, where nearly 3,000 youth were reported to be experiencing homelessness in the 2019 – 2020 school year, this expansion comes at a critical time. “This facility will serve as our newest drop-in site where those in need can come during the day to have a hot meal, a shower, and receive support with everything from basic needs to employment and housing,” says Brendan Corbett, Operations Director of HomePlate.

“The Home Builders Foundation is supporting this project with cash grants and in-kind donations to help reduce the overall cost for HomePlate Youth Services so they can focus on programming for our vulnerable youth,” says Chris McDowell, HBF Project Manager. “Partners like Lennar Homes, Mutual Materials, Globe Lighting, Bliss Roofing, and Rick’s Custom Fencing and Decking have really stepped up with their donations to help as this project is nearing completion and almost ready to open to the public.”

We were asked to provide fencing for the outdoor space, along with new entry gates for ADA accessibility. As part of our ongoing Rick’s Community Support Drive, an outreach program that connects us with local non-profits providing community support, we were able to donate over $16,000 worth of fencing materials and labor.

The fencing might seem like a small component in such a large build, but it addresses a need that many might not think of for this type of facility. “Having an inviting exterior space completely changes the dynamic, and the connection in trauma-informed design between outside and inside brings the entire center together,” says Brendan. “Having a beautiful entry into a courtyard space where they can feel this welcoming sense before entering really improves accessibility for the youth we serve.”

When Taylor Pawley, our Community Support Drive Director, heard about the need and the mission of HomePlate, she jumped at the opportunity to help. “We’ve tried to do a lot to partner with organizations helping to prevent homelessness, but there is also a greater need to help those currently experiencing it. The idea that Washington County has so many young people in need right now is heartbreaking.”

HomePlate was able to help more than 350 youth in the Beaverton area last year, but with this new facility, that number should be able to grow considerably. “This facility enables us to expand as we meet the rising need in Washington County. HomePlate has roughly doubled in size as an organization over the past year and having a space like this is a critical part of that growth. We’re better able to support our staff and in turn, have the spaces we need to serve youth the best we possibly can,” says Brendan of HomePlate.

The new facility is set to open soon with a grand opening celebration planned for September.

Learn more Home 4 HomePlate Campaign!