Next Chapter - Tacoma, Washington 2023

Experience Excellence Foundation, Wayfinder Tax Relief, and Weidner Apartment Homes, had the powerful opportunity to come together in Tacoma, Washington, and make an impact at Next Chapter. Next Chapter is an organization caring for and housing single mothers experiencing homelessness. Their playground was barely held together and had a severe lean. Good-intentioned people had also dropped many equipment donations over the years that were simply broken. The outdoor furniture was in severe disrepair.

We rolled up our sleeves, worked side by side, and made a tangible difference in the lives of those around us by building a brand-new playground, thoughtfully designing beautiful gathering spaces for families and executing a large-scale reroofing project which totaled about $75,000. We also hauled off two 40-foot roll-off dumpsters of broken things and trash to free them from the burden.

Some of the most amazing memories came from the time we spent with the women and children living at Next Chapter. The kids were able to learn how to make brownies and the joy on their faces as some of them said, “I’ve never made anything before, and I MADE this!” We were very proud of them and their growth.

Throughout the project, neighbors came and helped when they were able. At the dedication party, the community came together to celebrate and enjoy a meal together. It was more than just a service project; it was a testament to the power of teamwork and the joy of contributing to something bigger than ourselves.