Carpentry students at Somerset County Vocational & Technical High School load wheelchair ramp components that they built to assist the Somerset County Handyman Project in their effort to provide accessibility for local residents. (Photo provided by SCVTHS)
Carpentry students at Somerset County Vocational & Technical High School (SCVTHS) continued their partnership with the Somerset County Handyman Program in an effort to provide assistance to members of the community who are dealing with mobility issues.
The Handyman Program is a group of volunteers who have been providing services that enhance the quality of life for seniors and physically disabled citizens for over 30 years.
SCVTHS Carpentry students and staff are joined by representatives of the Somerset County Handyman Program. (Photo provided by SCVTHS)
This winter, they have seen an increase in requests for the construction and installation of ramps at homes throughout Somerset County. However, the weather has not been cooperative, and the Handyman Program’s timeline for completing projects has been impacted by freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and even lumber that has frozen together into solid blocks.
In order to make progress on their projects, the Handyman team contacted Carpentry instructor Dan LaRue and Supervisor of Career and Technical Education Rob Carrig at SCVTHS who were more than happy to have their students help out.
Wood and supplies were delivered to the indoor carpentry shop at SCVTHS and the students got to work. In total, the students fabricated twelve modules that will be used in upcoming Handyman Project builds.
“The fact that SCVTHS students were able to help us during the winter months made it possible for us to be able to continue our ramp program through the winter.” said Laurie Roome, director of volunteer services for Somerset County. “We really appreciate these students and what they were able to do. They’ve made a huge difference in the lives of the people in our community.”
Mr. Carrig, Mr. LaRue, and Ms. Roome all stated that they are looking forward to future collaborations between the Carpentry students and the Handyman Program.
This story originally appeared March 7, 2025 in Patch.
