Since 2012, NCBAM and Baptists on Mission, an auxiliary to the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina, have partnered to build more than 850 wheelchair ramps. While ramp builders generously donate their time and talents, many frail-aging individuals cannot afford the full cost of ramp supplies. The average cost of materials for one ramp is $1,500. NCBAM Rampin’ Up! matching grants will be awarded up to 50% of the total cost of materials, with a maximum award of $750 per ramp.

Operation Inasmuch is a national nonprofit that employs proven models to motivate, train, and equip church leaders to mobilize its members for serving community families and individuals in need.

In announcing the Rampin’ Up! Matching Grant awards, BCH president Dr. Michael C. Blackwell explained that accessibility ramps are a vital part of NCBAM’s mission to help aging adults maintain their independence.

“A key to independence is mobility to and from oneís home,” he said. “Social isolation causes a downward spiral in emotional and physical health and we want to do everything we can to keep North Carolina’s aging safe and part of the life of their communities.”

BCH administers more than a dozen ministry outreaches to people of all ages. From newborns to centenarians, BCH shares hope with thousands through its organizational vision of “sharing hope – changing lives.” Fancy Finds is located on BCH’s Mills Home campus in Thomasville and is open the first and third Friday and Saturday of each month. The store features donations of gently-used antique furniture and home decor that have been creatively restored and repurposed by Fancy Finds. Hand-crafted products from local artisans are also available. In addition, Fancy Finds offers estate sale services, DIY classes, and custom repurposing.

Not only do all proceeds from Fancy Finds benefit the ministries of BCH, older children in care at Mills Home have learned repurposing and customer service skills as store employees. Grieving families have also benefited by the compassionate care intrinsic to Fancy Finds estate sale services. And now, frail aging adults in need of wheelchair ramps will benefit from the resale store’s mission – Repurposed for a Purpose.

NCBAM also received a Special Projects grant from the North Carolina Baptist Foundation. This generous grant will provide an additional $2,500 in matching funds for Rampin’ Up! To meet the immense need, NCBAM is still seeking sponsors, individual donations and volunteer ramp builders.

For more information about Rampin’ Up!, contact the NCBAM Call Center at 877-506-2226. The matching grant application may be completed at www.ncbam.org/rampin–up!