Dianne Moretzsohn | Good Works, Inc.
I have been involved for many years with Good Works, Inc., a faith-based 501(c)(3) located in Coatesville, PA. Good Works’ mission is to provide home repairs to low-income homeowners in Chester County and restore hope in the process. I was asked to join the Board in 2011. Seeing the life-changing effects on those who are served, I was happy to accept.
Good Works relies on volunteers from local churches to send work teams to perform the home repairs. I have participated in work teams through my church, the Church of the Good Samaritan in Paoli, PA. The work team goes to a client’s home one Saturday per month and works on repairs until they are all completed. The process usually takes 12-18 months, during which the team develops a personal relationship with the client. Good Works also benefits from corporate workdays, during which many local companies, including Vanguard and Bentley Systems, provide volunteer work teams during the week to assist with home repairs.
I have found the personal relationships to be the most fulfilling part of serving on a work team. There is also a great sense of accomplishment in seeing a home transformed through the efforts and dedication of the work team, which invariably leads to transformation of the hearts of those involved. My experience has made me more compassionate towards those who are dealing with a hardship or adversity in their life, including those who have lost their jobs.
There is a huge need in our community for those who are living on the margin financially. Many of Good Works’ clients are disabled, elderly or work full-time but still cannot manage the financial burden of home repairs. I look at what Good Works does as “love in action.” I’m proud to be part of the organization, which celebrates its 30th anniversary of working to make homes “warmer, safer and drier” in 2018.