Hundreds Attend Medina Creative Housing Fundraising Banquet
Aug 30, 2022
MEDINA — Tom Borror has known and appreciated people with disabilities since he was a child.
One of Borror’s oldest friends was only 4 when his father broke his neck after diving from a boat into shallow water. He became a paraplegic but still lived a full and meaningful life.
For the past 20 years, Borror, now 68, has volunteered for several organizations — including Medina Creative Housing — that help those with physical and mental disabilities.
“I appreciate all they can do within their limitations,” said Borror, a Medina resident.
Borror and his wife, Sharon, were among hundreds of people attending the 16th Raising the Roof Gala, an annual fundraising banquet for Medina Creative Housing. The gala was Saturday evening at Weymouth Country Club on Weymouth Road.
The event also marked the 30th anniversary of Medina Creative Housing, established to provide housing, services and support for those with disabilities so they can live as independently as possible.
“We have touched thousands of lives,” said Megan Hillard, Medina Creative Housing spokesperson. “We have 80 units of housing and 18 different programs we have developed that provide not only a roof over one’s head but also a lifestyle for individuals with disabilities to grow and become all they can be.”
“Those we serve enjoy living independently and holding meaningful jobs while earning incomes and enjoying access to recreational and therapeutic programs and true integration into our community,” Hillard said.
The gala was expected to raise about $125,000. General admission tickets were $125, and a VIP reception immediately before the banquet honored those who contributed $1,500 or more. The event also featured raffles. Money raised will go toward Medina Creative Housing operations, programs and housing.
Ryan and Amanda Carlson of Brunswick were among the first to arrive to the gala. Ryan Carlson said his family has been involved with Medina Creative Housing for 15 years.
“Both Amanda and I have family members, and have known others with family members, with disabilities, who have experienced challenges with independent living,” Ryan Carlson said.
“Medina Creative Housing is a great organization that provides customized support and independent housing for folks who might not otherwise have that opportunity,” Ryan Carlson said.
Amanda Carlson is a speech and language pathologist who works with both children and adults.
“I love that this organization allows those with disabilities to have as much independence as possible,” Amanda Carlson said.
Tony Nicol, a former board member of Media Creative Housing, attended Saturday’s fundraiser with his wife, Katie, who now serves on the board.
“The more I learned about this organization, the more I loved what it stands for, helping not just with housing but with education and employment,” Tony Nicol said.
“Our goal is to provide our residents the happiest, most fulfilling life they can have,” Katie Nicol said. “Medina Creative Housing goes above and beyond to do just that.”
Contact Bob Sandrick at areanews@medina-gazette.com.