You showed me
how to be the change

Bench Program Logo

Bench Program

The Bench Program was created when we thought of a way to repurpose the leftover cut-off pieces of wood from our Home Accessibility Ramps that were too short to use for another ramp project. We wanted to create a Full-Circle Program designed to raise funds for more wheelchair ramps to be built. Thus, the Bench Program was born for the purpose of utilizing leftover boards; and keeping the boards out of a landfill. 

Shop benches & Tables
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GIVE THE GIFT OF MOBILITY

*All bench purchases must be picked up at 1100 S. Division Ave., Grand Rapids, MI 49507.

The cost per bench is $100, side tables are $50. Taxes and Fees not included.

BUY A BENCH
Stored Benches within Cabinet Shop.
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Balcony2
Balcony1
Garden5
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Front1

The Story of the Benches

Access Ramps

HRS offers special needs accessibility wheelchair ramps for individuals with limited mobility. We wanted to think of a solution to repurpose the leftover boards that were too short to use for the next ramp. Then, we thought of this full-circle opportunity to build benches from these boards, and sell them to the public generating funds for the next ramp build. This program gives the community an opportunity to support those in need, while bringing home a handcrafted bench. 

Volunteers Groups Aid Us in the Construction of a Home Accessibility Ramp.
Volunteers Groups Aid Us in the Construction of a Home Accessibility Ramp.
Volunteers Building Ramp.
Volunteers Building Ramp.
Volunteers Building Ramp.
Volunteers Building Ramp.
After the Ramp is Completed, the Homeowner is Granted the Freedom to be Mobile.
After the Ramp is Completed, the Homeowner is Granted the Freedom to be Mobile.
Completed Ramp.
Completed Ramp.

Recycled Wood

After each ramp is completed, the leftover boards are collected and examined for retained quality. The boards are then cut into the various width and length requirements and placed into their assigned groupings. The boards await eager volunteers to assemble them into the benches!

The Boards Used in the Ramp Making Process.
The Boards Used in the Ramp Making Process.
The Boards are Sized for the Ramp and the Extra Pieces are Thrown into a Pile.
The Boards are Sized for the Ramp and the Extra Pieces are Thrown into a Pile.
The Leftover Boards from the Ramp-Building Process, are collected and Stored.
The Leftover Boards from the Ramp-Building Process, are collected and Stored.
Cut boards are Placed in Assigned Sections.
Cut boards are Placed in Assigned Sections.

Eager Volunteers

Our eager volunteers are led by our Self-Help Program Associates to place each individual board into a specially-made jig for assembly. The benches are handcrafted by our volunteers and stamped with our specially-made honorary wood plaque on the front of the bench. This gives each bench the recognition of supporting a great cause.

The Frame of the Bench is Made Using the Homemade Frame Jig.
The Frame of the Bench is Made Using the Homemade Frame Jig.
Pre-Cut Boards are Placed Side-by-Side Within the Frame.
Pre-Cut Boards are Placed Side-by-Side Within the Frame.
The Legs of the Bench are Screwed into Place.
The Legs of the Bench are Screwed into Place.
A Wood Burned Plaque is Screwed on the Front of the Bench.
A Wood Burned Plaque is Screwed on the Front of the Bench.
The Volunteers Take Pride in Their Handcrafted Benches.
The Volunteers Take Pride in Their Handcrafted Benches.

Your Purchase

After you purchase your handcrafted bench, you are free to take it to its new home! Each bench made at HRS has a story. 100% of the funds raised through our Bench Program will go towards the purchase of boards to build more special needs home accessibility wheel chair ramps! Help us give the gift of mobility.