Accessible Housing Matters Stephen Beard

How can the design of a home transform the daily life of a child with disabilities and have a lasting impact throughout their lifetime? How does this transformation affect their family and caregivers?
 
This episode features Marcel Hernandez Development Director of Tucker's House, a nonprofit in Tennessee that customizes homes for disabled children. They focus on creating accessible spaces that cater to each child's needs, considering their future growth and independence. Marcel emphasizes the importance of a holistic and therapy-informed approach, not only making physical adjustments but also alleviating emotional stress for caregivers, acknowledging their critical yet often unnoticed role. He also discusses the "House to Home" video series, which illustrates the profound impact of these home transformations on families. 
 
Tune in to hear firsthand how compassionate home designs and builds are breaking barriers and bringing joy to families in need. 
 
 
[00:01 - 04:29] Opening Segment
Tucker's House is a Tennessee-based nonprofit that specializes in home modifications for families with children who have disabilities
The organization, active since 2009, estimates its impact on approximately 1200 to 1500 individuals, working annually with about 100 to 120 individuals
Tucker's House is fully funded through private donations, including grants from foundations, corporate partners, and individual community champions, covering all costs for their core AIM program
The AIM program involves a comprehensive process with a program manager, occupational and physical therapists, architects, and construction partners, to create personalized, practical modifications in homes
 
 
[04:30 - 08:11] Building for a Lifetime: A Lasting Solution for Families and Caregivers
Tucker’s House focuses on long-term, sustainable home modifications for children with disabilities, considering their growth and evolving needs to provide lifetime solutions
The organization's approach includes not just physical modifications but also aims to provide emotional relief and support for caregivers, recognizing their crucial role
Their high client satisfaction and attention to detail in modifications underscore their commitment to delivering quality solutions without the need for major re-installations
 
[08:12 - 13:40] Inspiring Stories Behind Accessible Homes
Tucker’s House not only modifies homes but also assists with ordering and installing durable medical equipment (DME), ensuring a perfect fit for each family's unique needs
Their therapy-informed approach goes beyond typical remodeling, prioritizing the family's voice and choice throughout the process for personalized solutions
The "House to Home" series offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges faced by families with disabilities and how accessible modifications alleviate these struggles
This series also highlights the crucial role of caregivers and the physical and emotional toll of caregiving, underscoring the importance of ergonomic home design
Tucker’s House collaborates with financial partners who are also featured in the series and play a significant role in supporting and facilitating their initiatives
 
[13:41 - 20:48] Navigating the Demand for Accessibility 
The organization is primarily referral-based, receiving clients through healthcare providers and gaining increased exposure through media and their House to Home series
Their service criteria focus mainly on children but are flexible, considering each family’s unique situation, including financial constraints and healthcare needs
Marcel also talks about similar organizations that serve people of all ages 
 
[20:49 - 28:46] Closing Segment
Marcel is deeply committed to setting a strong psychological foundation for his children, emphasizing the importance of a stable, nurturing home environment
His nonprofit work, including founding Be About Cha

What if we could bridge the gap between accessible housing for the aging population and job creation for marginalized communities?
 
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Kat Kabat, Director of Construction Operations at Hope Renovations, a non-profit organization transforming lives through accessible home renovations and construction training for women and genderqueer individuals. Discover how Hope Renovations is breaking down barriers, building safe living spaces, and creating a more inclusive world, one home and one career at a time.
 
Learn how to support initiatives that address accessibility and job creation together for an equitable future. Tune in and take action!
 
 
[00:01 - 03:24] Opening Segment
Hope Renovations is a non-profit organization and its dual mission is to train women and genderqueer individuals in skilled construction trades and provide aging in place renovations and repairs to homeowners
They aim to make simple home modifications to meet the needs of an aging population, considering the strong desire of 95% of Americans to stay in their home
They acknowledge the societal failure to adequately prepare for the challenges of an aging population and are committed to making a positive impact in this area
 
[03:25 - 12:33] Designing Safe, Accessible, and Affordable Homes
Kat emphasizes the need to make homes suitable for people as they get older and have different physical needs
They have Certified Aging in Place Specialists who are trained to assess homes and make them safer for long-term living
Their focus is on tub to shower conversions, as the bathroom is one of the most dangerous areas for individuals with mobility issues, and using innovative technologies to create solutions
The organization's sliding scale model allows them to provide affordable renovations for individuals with limited expendable income
They prioritize inclusivity and provide a sense of security for homeowners, especially for single women who may feel more comfortable with their crews
 
[12:34 - 16:02] Offering Opportunities for Folks of All Abilities
Kat talks about how they are providing employment opportunities for underemployed individuals
Participants in their training program are paid, enabling them to support their families while fully committing to their education
After the program, there are also endless career possibilities because of the  big demand in the industry 
Regardless of abilities or differences, they recognize the potential of individuals and provide a supportive environment where they can thrive
[16:03 - 21:23] The Importance of Collaboration in Strengthening Communities
The organization is funded primarily through grants, both from the government and private foundations
The key to their success has been building connections and finding supportive individuals and organizations in the community
Kat also shares what’s next for Hope Renovations
 
[21:24 - 27:05] Closing Segment
Kat discusses the importance of equal access to opportunities in the construction field
They feel honored to be able to create a supportive community that brings joy and fulfillment to both workers and homeowners
 
 
Want to connect with Kat? Check out Hope Renovations on Instagram and Facebook. Visit their website at hoperenovations.org.



Key Quotes:
 
“What a privilege it is for us to be able to be some of the first folks to help them navigate, like one of the most important and scary parts, which is making a home more accessible and the financial burden of that sometimes.” - Kat Kabat
 
“It shouldn't take having a handy dad for me to have found my way here. There should be other pathways.” - Kat Kabat
 
“The first step is probably taking the temperature of your community and finding those folks who are going to help you make it happen.” - Kat Kabat



Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my

Why is early and effective planning crucial for long-term home safety and independence?
 
In this episode, Stephen interviews Janet Engel - an occupational therapist, certified aging-in-place specialist, and an executive certificate in home modification holder - to share her expertise and help people understand the importance of making their living space more accessible and safer for them to navigate. She explains how universal design features can help make life easier and stresses the importance of automation systems for those who don't do well with technology. Stephen and Janet discuss the challenges of aging in place and how to overcome them while emphasizing the importance of proper planning so people can live safely and independently at home for longer.
 
Tune in for helpful tips on creating a safe space for aging in place!
 
 
[00:01 - 09:53] Opening Segment
• Less than 5% of the housing stock in the US has features that would make it universally designed
• How Janet helps people live safely in their homes and teaches about this
• Simple modifications to increase safety and independence
The importance of automation systems  
[09:54 - 19:04] How Technology Can Help Women Age in Place Safely and Comfortably
• Women are more at risk of being victims of criminal acts, so security in the home is important
• How you can use Alexa to tie into home features like lighting and security systems
• Arthritis is the number one disability that Americans have
Impacting mobility and making everyday tasks difficult  
[19:05 - 28:06] Debunking Misconceptions & Understanding the Benefits of Aging in Place
• Universal design features can make a home more functional
• Better design for primary bathrooms should include counter space and storage to reduce fall risk
• Accessible design is not ugly or institutional-looking
 
[28:07 - 34:23] Closing Segment
• You can beautifully design wheelchair ramps with safety features
• What you need to create the best modifications for people with disabilities/progressive conditions/traumatic events
 
 
Want to connect with Janet? Follow her on LinkedIn. Visit Home Designs for Life to encompass all stages of life and abilities!
 
 
Key Quotes:
 
 
“There needs to be a happy medium where people with unlimited funds and people with limited funds can change their environment, not just their bathroom.” - Janet Engel
 
“Ramps are one of the accessible features that is most often done incorrectly.” - Janet Engel
 
 
 
Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters,
 
To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website or contact me on Facebook and Twitter.
 
Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.
 
Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing and getting conversations going.
 
I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show.
 
Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Why is it crucial to make homes more accessible for everyone? Today, Aaron Murphy, the founder of ForeverHOME, discusses how to create a safe and comfortable space for aging in place. Learn what universal design is and why it is vital to creating accessible homes for everyone. Hear how Aaron has been helping people age in place through his program and how to help those with limited financial resources access quality care. Discover what it’s like to be part of the sandwich generation and how Aaron’s own experience drives him to help others access the best care possible. 
 
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about creating homes that work for everyone!
 
Aaron is a passionate design professional, consultant, and advocate for Aging-In-Place in your own community. He is a licensed architect, a “Certified Aging In Place Specialist” through NAHB, and an engaging and entertaining public speaker. 
 
 
[00:01 - 09:05] Opening Segment
• Aaron's background as a licensed architect with experience in aging in place
• Aaron introduces ForeverHOME
How to create environments where people can live in their homes for their whole lives • How to disrupt the spec building industry and make existing housing stock more accessible
 
[09:06 - 17:39] Advocating for Aging in Place
• How people are working together to help people stay in their homes
90% of people prefer to age in place • Aging in place does not have to cost more if planned ahead
The discussion around aging has become more mainstream  
[17:40 - 26:28] Understanding the Invisible Housing Crisis
• How architectural coaching can help business owners and families prepare for aging in place
A universal design that works better for everyone • The importance of discussing solutions for people with different types of accessibility concerns
• ForeverHOME coaching program to gain access to utilizing the stock plans
 
[26:29 - 30:16] Closing Segment
• Anything is solvable with a checkbook, but it's worth considering if it's worth it
• The cost of moving is 20% of the value of your home
• Aaron's insights on the invisible housing crisis coming on
 
 
Want to connect with Aaron? Follow him on LinkedIn. Head to ForeverHOME to live where you love and thrive where you live!
 
 
Key Quote:
 
“Housing can be the hub of your happiness, but it also needs to be empowering for every phase of life.” - Aaron Murphy
 
 
Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters,
 
To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website or contact me on Facebook and Twitter.
 
Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.
 
Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing and getting conversations going.
 
I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show.
 
Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

How do you envision a future where every community prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity in their housing options?
 
Join us as we explore the inspiring story of Michael Donnelly and Garrett Mayersohn, two people working together to provide accessible housing for people with disabilities and seniors. They discuss their plan to market barrier-free housing as well as the Certified Aging in Place (CAP), which helps people understand how to design for accessibility in the home. They also touch on solutions that can help disabled people live more independently and have better access to resources in their community.
 
Tune in to explore the importance of building communities that are accessible for everyone!
 
As the Builder and Retrofitter for Donnelly Construction and Barrier Free Contractors, Mike Donnelly focuses on creating Universal Design/Barrier Free/Aging-in-Place homes, specifically to provide accessibility and independence for persons with disabilities, the aging, and veterans in need.
 
Garrett Mayersohn, born with cerebral palsy, brings valuable first-hand experience of living with a disability. He is passionate about advocating for and helping Barrier Free Contractors build and retrofit as many barrier-free houses as possible.
 
[00:01 - 08:24] Opening Segment
• How Mika and Garrett are changing lives through accessible housing
Working in the housing space to help people with disabilities and seniors have a better life • How Mike found out nobody was building accessible housing or retrofitting existing homes
He changed people's lives by building accessible, barrier-free homes  
[08:25 - 16:25] Barrier-Free Housing and Help People Live Better Lives
• Mike is teaching Garrett his methods and helping him market barrier-free housing
Garrett is trying to persuade contractors that it is the right thing to do • Pushback from contractors is that they don't want to spend money
• Mike has developed a nonprofit, Liberty Access Foundation, to help people in need
 
[16:26 - 24:03] Making Homes Accessible for Everyone
• The need for policy change and education in aging communities
• Realizing the importance of money and how it can change one's life
• Struggles faced by people with disabilities in finding housing due to laws in the Fair Housing Act
• The expensive nature of retrofitting existing homes
 
[24:04 - 30:35] Closing Segment
• The need for education to help society look at housing differently
• Thinking about aging when building housing and communities
• Making sure communities are accessible as individual houses
 
Connect with Mike on YouTube Channel for Barrier-Free Contractors!
 
Connect with Garrett on LinkedIn!
 
Key Quotes:
 
“Everybody should know that they should build a house for a possible problem down the road, and yet it looks just the same, and it looks beautiful.” - Michael Donnelly
 
“When I see a person's life changed, your life changes instantly.” - Michael Donnelly
 
“Find a way to help if possible, or just to spread the word. Whatever you can do to help a person have a better life pays its.” - Michael Donnelly
 
“Accessibility is essential, viable, and profit can be made from it. There it is a good thing for people to be barrier-free and universally designed, and it's just good for everyone.” - Garrett Mayersohn
 
 
Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters,
 
To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter.
 
Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.
 
Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing and getting conversations going.
 
I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show.
 
Co

How can you make housing more inclusive and accommodating for people with disabilities? This episode explores Ari Aufgang’s journey into creating supportive and inclusionary housing, his challenges, and the lessons he has learned along the way. He covers topics such as accessibility features for people with disabilities, how to manage public perception of inclusionary housing, and how to choose economical yet attractive elements when designing a building. 
 
Join us as we dive into understanding the needs of various populations and creating community within their designs!
 
Ariel joined his firm at 18 while still a student at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. As a close, personal consultant to Aufgang clients, Ariel provides a full range of services, including land use consultation, peer review, design services, planning, and construction administration.
 
[00:01 - 08:17] Opening Segment
• Designing inclusive and supportive housing in New York City
A design firm focused on architectural design, in-house engineering, and sustainability
• 5-10% of units are adapted before opening for wheelchair accessibility
• Preference is given to disabled people for accessible units
 
[08:18 - 15:26] Exploring the Needs of Different Populations
• How working with nonprofit developers has educated for-profit developers
Almost half of the clients are not-for-profit developers, bringing people with special needs
• Learning from both market-rate rental and supportive/low-income rental
• Unique design considerations for luxury housing in New York City
 
[15:27 - 22:23] Overcoming Challenges in Inclusionary Housing
• How Ari learned to choose economical yet functional and attractive elements for low-income housing
• The challenges of inclusionary housing in NYC
Cultural issues and public perception
• How diverse community within the building serves everybody
 
[22:24 - 27:40] Understanding the Needs of Residents
• Ari's experience in residential high-rise construction
• The importance of understanding the needs of potential residents
• Ari's mother encouraged him to get a title, and he became an architect.
Why housing has always been important to Ari
 
[27:41 - 31:40] Closing Segment
• Big firms are now getting into housing, which was not seen before
• Interacting with potential residents is essential to understand their needs



Key Quotes:
 
“Anytime we work with a particular population, one of the greatest parts of the process is learning the needs because it's never what you think it might be." - Ariel Aufgang
 
"You never know what people need. We have guidelines you could follow, which are great, but they are just the average. You never know what the average is." - Ariel Aufgang



Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters,
 
To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter.
 
Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.
 
Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing and getting conversations going.
 
I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show.
 
Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.