Fall 2024 Newsletter
SAWs 2024 Year in Review: A Year of Milestones and Momentum
As we look back on 2024, it’s incredible to see the impact that your support has made possible through SAWs. This year was filled with remarkable achievements, growth, and heartwarming stories of restored independence, thanks to our dedicated volunteers, generous donors, and supportive community. With your help, we reached major milestones, expanded our reach, and continued providing life-changing accessibility to those in need.
Celebrating Our 4000th Ramp
One of the highlights of 2024 was our celebration of the 4000th ramp, a significant milestone in SAWs’ history. Reaching this number signifies thousands of lives touched, thousands of individuals freed from isolation, and thousands of families who no longer worry about accessibility for their loved ones. Each ramp tells a story of resilience, hope, and community, and the 4000th ramp was no exception. Built in May, it was a collaborative effort with Rehab Medical and volunteers who worked tirelessly to provide a
safe passage to independence.
We recently marked this occasion by sending our supporters a special postcard featuring a sketch of the 4000th ramp. It serves as a reminder that every contribution — whether it’s time, funds, or encouragement — brings us closer to making a difference for another person who just needs a little help to regain their mobility freedom.
Expanding Our Reach with New Partnerships and Grants
This year, SAWs continued to grow thanks to new partnerships and grants that allow us to reach more communities across Indiana and beyond. Notable contributions from foundations like the Community Foundation of White County and the Blue River Community Foundation made it possible to build ramps for individuals who would otherwise face months or even years of isolation due to accessibility challenges.
We also received a generous gift from the Indiana Construction Roundtable Foundation, funding the construction of 15-20 ramps across multiple counties. Each project is completed by a dedicated team of students from BY Construction Training, led by our outstanding Volunteer Project Manager, Jesse Linville. The students, mostly young adults, commit to building these ramps with skill and compassion, creating meaningful connections with our clients, and gaining hands-on experience in the field.
These partnerships highlight how working together as a community can bring lasting change, and we are grateful for the trust and support we’ve received from organizations that believe in our mission.
Empowering a New Generation of Volunteers
Our volunteers power behind each ramp. This year, we witnessed an inspiring wave of new and returning volunteers, from students at Highlander Park completing their first ramp build to groups from businesses like OrthoIndy. With the help of experienced team members, these volunteers are gaining the skills they need to make a tangible difference.
One of our key goals in 2024 was to build a leadership pipeline within our volunteer ranks, ensuring the legacy of SAWs continues to grow. This effort to cultivate and support new leaders is crucial, as each new volunteer leader allows us to expand our impact even further.
The Need for Support
Despite these accomplishments, the need for support remains urgent. There are still hundreds of individuals in Indiana who cannot safely leave their homes due to a lack of accessible options. Each ramp requires resources, skilled hands, and time to build — and with rising costs, our ability to serve everyone who needs a ramp is more challenging than ever.
As we enter the holiday season, we’re asking our community to consider supporting SAWs in whatever way they can. A donation of any size helps us cover the costs of materials, transportation, and volunteer training to continue delivering ramps to those who need them most. And because we’re committed to using your contributions wisely, you can trust that every dollar goes directly toward building ramps and changing lives.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we wrap up 2024, we’re energized and hopeful for what lies ahead. The progress we’ve made this year is a testament to the power of community and the belief that everyone deserves the freedom to access their own home. With your continued support, we aim to build even more ramps, reach underserved areas, and help every person who needs our assistance.
Thank you for being part of SAWs’ journey this year. Together, we’ve created paths to independence and lifted countless spirits. Here’s to even more milestones in 2025!
SAWs Builds Life-Changing Wheelchair Ramps in Dearborn County
Thanks to the generous support of the Dearborn County Community Foundation (DCCF), SAWs (Servants at Work) was able to construct seven ADA-compliant wheelchair ramps for low-income residents in Dearborn County who faced significant mobility challenges. These ramps have made a tremendous difference in the lives of individuals and their caregivers, offering newfound freedom and independence to safely come and go from their homes.
Marguerite, an 82-year-old widow living alone in her home of over 30 years, struggles with limited mobility due to several medical conditions. She uses a manual wheelchair but has difficulty using her current ramp, which her son built years ago. The design of the existing ramp makes it challenging for Marguerite to safely exit her home for medical appointments or emergencies. With limited funds and increasing mobility needs, she was in desperate need of a new, straight ramp to ensure her safety and independence. Thanks to this grant, SAWs was able to provide her with the accessibility she needed.
This project didn’t just impact our clients—it also brought together 50-75 volunteers from the local community, offering them a chance to make a tangible difference and support their neighbors in need. The grant funds from DCCF made it possible for us to serve these families more quickly, ensuring materials were readily available for each ramp build.
In addition to staying under budget for the ramps, we have funds available for future projects in Dearborn County. We look forward to continuing our partnership with DCCF to meet the growing demand for mobility ramps in Southeast Indiana.
Thank you, Dearborn County Community Foundation, for your unwavering support and dedication to improving the lives of local residents!
Empowering Freedom through Aluminum Ramps
Photo courtesy of Ryan Trares and the Daily Journal
SAWs Receives $10,000 Matching Grant from Johnson County Community Foundation
We are thrilled to announce that Servants at Work has been awarded a $10,000 matching grant from the Johnson County Community Foundation (JCCF). This incredible opportunity will enable us to test a new initiative that promises to make a significant impact on the lives of those we serve in Johnson County.
How Our Work Transforms Lives by Providing Independence and Freedom
The ability to access one’s home safely and independently is something many of us take for granted, but for those who rely on wheelchairs, walkers, or scooters, this can be a daily struggle. The ramps we build are not just structures; they are lifelines—providing freedom, independence, and a better quality of life to those who need it most.
With the support of the JCCF, this matching grant will allow SAWs to innovate and expand our capabilities. Tim Thurston, our Executive Director, emphasized the importance of this grant:
“This is a difference-making thing for us. We need to get to people who are aging in place a lot quicker. We need to prioritize people who are on dialysis and chemotherapy to get them their ramps. We need to reduce that churn time from four to six weeks down to two weeks. This is going to make it happen.”
Imagine waiting weeks just to be able to leave your home safely. For many, this wait can feel like an eternity. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about the mental and physical well-being of individuals who are already facing significant health challenges. By reducing the time it takes to install these ramps, we are reducing the stress, anxiety, and isolation that our clients experience, enabling them to focus on their health and well-being, as well as rejoin their communities.
How You Can Help Us Provide Freedom Faster to Those in Need
We are asking our community to help us meet this matching grant. Every dollar you contribute will be matched by JCCF, doubling the impact of your generosity. Together, we can ensure that more people in Johnson County gain the freedom they deserve, faster.
Donate today and help us make a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most. Donate Now at sawsramps.org/donate and indicate in the designation field your gift is for the JCCF Matching Grant.
Community Comes Together to Help Build a Ramp
At Servants at Work (SAWs), we see how powerful it is when people come together to help. Recently, volunteers from Citizens Energy and kids from Second Presbyterian Vacation Bible Camp did something amazing. They worked together to build a new ramp for Leo in Far Eastside Indianapolis, IN. This project shows how teamwork can make a big difference in someone’s life.
Working Together for a Good Cause
Leo had an old, shaky ramp that made it hard and unsafe for him to go in and out of his home. This was not just a physical problem but also made him feel worried and stressed. Community Health Network referred Leo to SAWs for help.
Volunteers from Citizens Energy, led by Project Manager Chuck Rushmore, stepped up to help. They knew their work would make a big difference for Leo. In just two hours, they built a new ramp, making sure Leo could move safely and feel more independent.
Servants at Work helps kids from Second Presbyterian VBS learn about ramps and accessibility.
Special Touch from Second Presbyterian Kids
The kids from Second Presbyterian Vacation Bible Camp added a special touch to the project. Before the ramp was built, these kids wrote messages of hope and love on the deck boards. Now, every time Leo uses his new ramp, he can see these messages and hopefully knows his community cares about him.
Celebrating Our Volunteers
The new ramp for Leo shows how much volunteers can do when they work together. The volunteers from Citizens Energy did an amazing job, and their hard work has made a big difference in Leo’s life. Project Manager Chuck Rushmore was very impressed and said, “You guys did a fantastic job. Two hours may be a new record for me!”
Looking Ahead
Leo’s new ramp is just one example of how community projects can spread kindness and support. As we celebrate this project, we also look forward to helping more people. Working with Citizens Energy, Second Presbyterian Vacation Bible Camp, and Community Health Network was wonderful. It shows what we can achieve when we work together.
At SAWs, we are committed to building more ramps and helping more people live independently. Each ramp is a step toward a community where everyone can live safely and with dignity.
Join Us
We invite you to join us in our mission. Whether you want to volunteer, your company wants to help, or your community group wants to get involved, there are many ways to help. Together, we can build ramps, create safe environments, and empower our neighbors.
For more information on how you can help, visit our website at SAWsRamps.org and follow us on social media @sawsramps on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Let’s work together to build a better, more accessible world for everyone.
SAWs Celebrates 200th Ramp Installation in St. Joseph County
Servants at Work has just installed its 200th ramp in St. Joseph County, Indiana. This milestone is part of their 20-year journey, with over 4,000 ramps installed across the country, helping people with mobility issues regain their freedom.
Two Decades of Service
Founded in 2003, SAWs aims to improve the lives of people with permanent or long-term disabilities. The organization builds safe, wooden ramps for low-income households, allowing individuals to access their homes easily. Volunteers, driven by faith and compassion, have transformed lives in Indiana, Arizona, and Virginia.
Frank Aquila, the Area Coordinator for St. Joseph County, leads a dedicated team of volunteers. He said, “We basically step in, making way for them to have freedom and accessibility to their homes and to be able to get out in the community and share a life with their friends again.”
“I think this is going to be a gamechanger.”
Celebrating the 200th Ramp
On a bright Saturday morning, the SAWs team gathered to build their 200th ramp for Susan Chambers and her son, Greg, in Mishawaka. Susan, 84, has had mobility issues for four years, making it hard to enter her home. Greg, a quadriplegic for 43 years, uses a power chair and struggled to assist his mother.
The new ramp has been a game-changer for the Chambers family. Greg said, “I think this is going to be a gamechanger.” This ramp ensures both Greg and Susan can safely and easily access their home, greatly improving their daily lives and community connection.
The Impact of SAWs
SAWs’ work goes beyond just building ramps; it restores independence and social connections. According to the organization, 90% of clients find it easy to access their home after a ramp is built, and 67% can do so independently.
These ramps are not just physical structures; they are gateways to freedom and community engagement.
As SAWs celebrates this milestone, they continue to plan for the future, aiming to help even more people each year. Their work transforms lives and creates inclusive communities where everyone can participate fully.
How You Can Help
SAWs depends on donations and volunteers to continue their impactful work. To support SAWs, consider donating or volunteering. Together, we can build a world where accessibility is a reality for all.
SAWs’ 4000th Ramp: The Parry Family & Rehab Medical
As we stand on the brink of a significant milestone in our mission to provide mobility and freedom to those in need, we are thrilled to share the story of our 4000th ramp recipients—the Parry family. Their journey epitomizes the profound impact of your support and the collective difference we can make in people’s lives.
Despite facing mobility challenges, Darlene, Chaplin for the local American Legion Auxiliary, is on the brink of gaining greater independence with her new power wheelchair, thanks to the collaborative efforts of her physician and insurance provider. The installation of a SAWs ramp at their home symbolizes a new chapter of accessibility and opportunity for the Parrys—a beacon of hope nur
tured by our incredible supporters.
Bob Parry, an esteemed Army veteran and dedicated First Vice Commander of Pendleton, Indiana’s American Legion Post 117, embodies resilience and a commitment to community service. He is passionate about spreading the word to other veterans about SAWs ramps, encouraging them to apply for a ramp or discover purpose by volunteering to help build ramps. Bob’s dedication showcases the lasting impact of your generosity, highlighting the strength of unity and shared goals. Together, we can achieve more than just constructing ramps – we can create pathways to brighter futures.
As veterans ourselves—Rik Hagarty, SAWs founder and Vietnam veteran, alongside Laura Belko, SAWs Marketing Director and proud Navy veteran—we deeply understand the importance of supporting fellow veterans and their families. It is both an honor and a privilege to stand in solidarity with those who have selflessly served our country.
In addition to our incredible community of supporters, we are thrilled to announce that Rehab Medical is partnering with SAWs to sponsor the 4000th ramp and our celebratory event. They will be building the Parry’s ramp on May 1st with their employees, showcasing their commitment to accessibility and community.
Rehab Medical‘s generous support for SAWs’ 4000th ramp celebration exemplifies their dedication to accessibility and community. Without partners like Rehab Medical, our mission of providing mobility and freedom to those in need would not be possible.
As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we invite you to join us in our mission to provide mobility and freedom to those in need. Whether you choose to volunteer your time or donate to SAWs, your support can help us continue making a difference in the lives of individuals and families across our community.
Building Accessible Paths: The Power of Giving with SAWs
Giving Back with SAWs: A Closer Look at Donor Recognition and Perks
At Servants at Work (SAWs), we’re driven by the belief that everyone deserves the freedom to move independently and safely. Our mission to build accessible paths for those in need is fueled by the generosity and compassion of donors like you. Through our Giving Program, we offer various contribution categories, each contributing to a tangible impact on the lives of individuals facing mobility challenges.
Inspiration for Giving
We envision a world where mobility is a right, not a privilege. Your donations enable us to break down barriers and provide individuals with the gift of independence and dignity. Every ramp we build is a testament to the transformative power of generosity.
Impact of Donating
Donating to SAWs goes beyond just building ramps; it’s about building pathways to opportunity and inclusion. Each contribution fosters social connection, emotional well-being, and a sense of belonging. Your support creates ripple effects that extend far beyond the physical infrastructure, touching the lives of our clients and their communities.
The SAWs Giving Program
Our Giving Program offers several contribution categories, each tailored to accommodate the diverse capacities of our donors:
Pathway Supporter: For donors contributing $100-$299 annually, enjoy an invitation to an exclusive virtual town hall with our Executive Director.
Access Advocate: Donors contributing $300 -$999 annually receive an invitation to the exclusive town hall and early access to Spring fundraiser tickets.
Mobility Ambassador: With contributions ranging from $1000 – $4999 annually, Mobility Ambassadors receive all Access Advocate benefits plus corporate logo recognition on our webpage and optional acknowledgment on a yard sign.
Visionary Builder: Donors contributing $5000 – $9999 annually receive all Mobility Ambassador benefits plus an optional social media mention and invitation to our Fall SAWs Summit event.
Founders Club: For those donating $10,000 or more annually, enjoy all Visionary Builder benefits plus an invitation to our Fall SAWs Summit event and optional special plaque recognition on a ramp.
Monthly sustainers, Legacy Society members, and Builders Club participants offer additional avenues of support for SAWs, complementing our donation levels and contributing to our mission in unique ways. Each of these groups receives special recognition for their commitment. Builders Club members enjoy the distinction of having an annotated logo featured prominently on our webpage, inclusion in our landing page slider, and the option for mention in our annual report. Monthly sustainers benefit from exclusive perks such as receiving an Exclusive Quarterly Newsletter and gaining early access to Spring fundraiser tickets, in addition to their respective tier level benefits.
Monthly Sustainers:
Our Monthly Sustainers demonstrate a commitment to our cause by giving regularly, ensuring sustained support for our programs. Their dedication allows us to plan and execute projects efficiently, knowing we have their ongoing support.
Legacy Society:
The SAWs Legacy Society honors individuals who include SAWs in their estate plans. Their forward-thinking generosity ensures the long-term sustainability of our organization, leaving a lasting impact for generations to come.
Builders Club:
The Builders Club comprises groups that not only fund but also volunteer to build ramps. Their hands-on involvement embodies the spirit of community and collaboration, making a direct and tangible difference in the lives of our clients.
To our donors, we extend our deepest gratitude for your commitment and dedication. Your generosity goes above and beyond, and we are profoundly grateful for your ongoing support. Together, we are building a more inclusive and compassionate society, one ramp at a time. Thank you for being a part of our journey and for helping us create pathways to a brighter future for all.
Zionsville United Methodist Church’s Advent Partnership with Servants at Work
ZUMC and SAWs embark on a journey from heart to home, building hope, one ramp at a time.
In Zionsville, compassion radiates from Zionsville United Methodist Church (ZUMC), which has chosen Servants at Work (SAWs) as its Advent gift recipient for Christmas 2023. Fueled by the spirit of giving, this venture promises a significant impact, bringing change to the lives of those needing home accessibility.
This partnership began in a meeting with ZUMC Pastor David Williamson and SAWs champion, Bob Richmond. ZUMC parishioners have a strong history of serving the community by building ramps with SAWS. This is a big step in working together. The goal of the Advent gift partnership is to further intertwine the church’s mission with SAWs’, multiplying the effectiveness of our service to our neighbors.
ZUMC’s decision to focus on building ramps reflects more than a choice; it’s a commitment. The decision speaks volumes about the church’s dedication to making a real difference. Intending to raise funds to sponsor 20 ramps in 2024, (and volunteering to construct several) ZUMC’s successful Advent offering of $38,124 paves the way for impactful ramp construction in the coming year.
Walt Maxson, SAWs Project Manager and ZUMC member, leads the ramp builds. The congregation aims to build 5-8 ramps in 2024, with 8-10 members participating in each build. The current timeline for ramp construction is in the planning phase and will be announced to email subscribers who sign up at the link below.
Register and sign up here to stay informed of updates on this collaboration.
A Leap Forward: SAWs Receives Lilly Endowment Capital Grant for Operational Efficiency and Mission Expansion
Download this press release as a PDF
Indianapolis, January 2024: – Servants at Work (SAWs), announces a significant leap forward in the mission to build freedom, independence, and accessibility. Thanks to the generosity of a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., SAWs is poised for transformative changes that will enhance operational efficiency and expand impact.
The $50,000 capacity building grant enables SAWs to consolidate several software programs onto a unified platform. Until now, four separate systems run SAWs operations, creating challenges in coordination and efficiency. The consolidation onto one platform marks a pivotal moment, streamlining processes and facilitating seamless communication across all facets of the organization.
This gain in efficiency translates into tangible benefits for both the SAWs team and the communities we serve. By reducing administrative expenses without increasing payroll or direct employment headcount, SAWs can allocate resources more effectively toward the core mission—building ramps for those in need.
The newfound efficiency enables SAWs to dream bigger and reach further. SAWs anticipates a remarkable 12-20% increase in the number of ramps constructed over the next two years. While these numbers are initial estimates, they represent a concrete step towards a commitment to serving more clients and making a lasting impact in the lives of individuals facing mobility challenges.
In addition to software consolidation, the grant supports strategic planning for SAWs. This invaluable resource allows SAWs to chart a course for sustained growth, ensuring that the mission is not only impactful today but also resilient and scalable for the future.
For more information or to donate online, please visit www.sawsramps.org .
About SAWs
Founded in 2003, SAWs® (Servants at Work, Inc.) is a faith-based, volunteer-powered nonprofit organization serving clients throughout Indiana, as well as Arizona and Virginia. SAWs specializes in building wooden wheelchair ramps and for individuals living with permanent or long-term disabilities in low-income households.
In less than six hours, a custom-built SAWs ramp can transform a person’s life. After a SAWs ramp is built at their home, 90% of clients describe accessing their home as “easy” and 67% of clients can access their home independently. SAWs ramps are gateways, re-opening the possibilities of connecting with neighbors and the community, and helping clients choose to remain living in their own homes. In 2024, SAWs is celebrating serving their 4000th client, and are excited about growing to serve more clients every year. For more information or to donate online, please visit us at www.sawsramps.org