Burdman Group thanks 14 companies for help

The work included a handicapped-accessible ramp at the shelter.

SPECIAL TO THE VINDICATOR

BOARDMAN — Burdman Group Inc. and its Sojourner House Domestic Violence Program recognized the Youngstown Chapter of the Ohio Contractors Association for the improvements of 14 members of the association made to Sojourner House.

The agency honored the businesses at the association’s annual holiday reception Thursday evening at Scacchetti’s Italian Steakhouse.

The 14 Valley companies donated money, labor, supplies and equipment to improve the shelter, which serves the women and children of Mahoning County escaping domestic violence.

The work included the installation of a new concrete, handicapped-accessible ramp; concrete pad for a picnic area; drainage improvements including excavation for a play area for the children; relocation of fencing; and installation of mulch for a play surface.

The 14 companies that were honored were Advanced Drainage Systems/Hancor, A.P. O’Horo, City Concrete, Columbus Equipment, East Jordan Iron Works, L. Calvin Jones, Lake Erie Construction, Leppo Equipment, Marucci & Gaffney, Pipelines, The Acme Co., Tri-Span, United Rentals and University Electric.

Children from the shelter prepared drawings for the contractors to show their appreciation.

“These companies are angels of our community. Without their hard work and generosity, this project could not have occurred,” said Malinda Gavins, Sojourner House program director.

“Burdman and Sojourner are grateful for this outstanding community service. It has created a better environment for the women and children we serve in the domestic violence shelter,” added Joseph Caruso, Burdman Group executive director.

Burdman Group is a private, not-for-profit agency that has served the Mahoning Valley for more than 38 years, providing vocational rehabilitation through its employment and job retention services; outpatient and residential behavioral health services; and Sojourner House Domestic Violence Services.

For more information, contact Caruso at (330) 743-9275, ext. 113.