 When it celebrates its 100th anniversary next year, the Palmer-Donavin Manufacturing Company won't hold a gala. They won't release balloons or hand out t-shirts. Leaders of the Columbus-based distributor of construction materials have decided instead to give back to the community by building a facility that will help persons with developmental disabilities for the next 100 years and beyond.
The Palmer-Donavin House will be a state-of-the-art, respite care facility that will serve up to 8 persons with developmental disabilities. The site of the facility will be McDowell Road in Grove City. The facility will be donated to Franklin County Residential Services, Inc., (FCRS) a not-for-profit corporation that provides residential and supported living services.
"The Palmer-Donavin House will help citizens with mental retardation and developmental disabilities access full participation in community life, while staying close to their families," said Ron Calhoun, president and chief Operation Officer of Palmer-Donavin.
Respite care services allow family members of persons with developmental disabilities to take a break from their day-to-day care duties. The services are helpful when families face personal emergencies, or simply need to relax.
The facility will include amenities such as an activity center, a meditation room and outside recreation areas. Estimated cost to build the facility is approximately $750,000.
It is expected that the facility will be completed in July, 2007 in conjunction with the company's 100th anniversary.
"This cause has personal meaning for current and past leaders of our company," noted Mr. Calhoun, who is a member of the Board of Trustees of FCRS.
For many years, Palmer-Donavin was headed by the late Robert Woodward, Sr., who also served as a member of the Franklin County Board of MRDD, as did his late wife, Ann Woodward, and their son, Robert Woodward, Jr.
Superintendent Jed Morison lauded the company's efforts, "This action is incredibly generous, and will leave a lasting, positive impact on our community."
Persons wishing to support the Palmer-Donavin House may make a financial contribution. A form for this purpose is enclosed with this issue of Dateline.
October 2006
|
Building Division