Volunteers of the Month: Pat and Kattie Cabe

Pat and Kattie at last year's Beer & Wine Tasting

Pat and Kattie went above and beyond for RTS last month! Pat volunteered to be the Project Manager for this year's Honeywell Rebuilding Day on September 29th.  For those who have served as a PM for other projects, you know how much time and effort goes into planning and executing a successful Rebuilding Day.  Pat went beyond these normal responsibilities, including quickly adapting his plan for building the ramp for Mary a mere two days before the project because of a last minute issue. He also worked almost 12 hours on Saturday, not leaving the project until 8 PM! Meanwhile, Kattie supported the project by making trip after trip to the hardwood store for needed supplies during the day. She spent the majority of the day running errands and without a single complaint!

Now let's hear from Pat and Kattie!

How did you two get involved with RTS?

We both got involved in 2004 through volunteering with the University of Washington construction management department. The first project involved a sidewalk, new ramp, stair repair, and some interior modifications.

What do you enjoy most about working with our organization?

Working with the homeowners and making improvements to their houses or non profit facilities within our city continues to be a satisfying experience. It is inspiring to see a group of volunteers with a variety of skill levels make a large impact towards preserving and improving the quality of life for the homeowners.

What do other volunteers say about RTS?

That they are happy to give a day of their time in order to see someone's life improved. Volunteers are amazed to see how far their time and labor will go to helping someone in need.

Why do they want to volunteer their time?

They see a need and have the heart to make a change. A lot of volunteers recognize that the demographic of homeowners RTS helps is largely underserved.

What about RTS' mission are the two of you most drawn to?

There are amazing people all over our region that through disability or limited income have a difficult time maintaining their residence to a level that is safe and functional for their life. Many of the homeowners have lived in their house for 30 years and have made a mark on their community. Helping to extend their stay within their house and community is truly rewarding.

Great work, Pat & Kattie!