Meet Natalie

Natalie has lived in her house for nearly 30 years. She was drawn to the quiet street, families, neighbors you got to know, when she moved here. When she bought her home, the rent prices and continuation of always paying that rent while also raising children was daunting. After running the numbers, she realized it was more economical and feasible for her to buy her home. So she did. “It’s still more economical for me to own my home,” Natalie laughs a little as she says this. “It’s not like it was when I moved here though,” explains Natalie. “There are more renters than homeowners now. It’s harder to get to know your neighbor.”

Born in Texas, a self described “Military brat” she relocated to Indianapolis, attended Marian University and graduated from IUPUI. She worked as a paralegal for years before retiring. She raised her kids in this home, started in it, married and is now divorced, and basically has made her life within her home’s walls. The kids have since graduated from college and moved elsewhere, leaving Natalie to maintain her yard and home on her own.

Incoming medical students installing a new shed for Natalie.

Hearing that a full class of incoming osteopathic medical students from Marian University would be descending on her neighborhood to do home repairs and yard clean ups delighted Natalie. “This feels full circle to me,” Natalie said. “I’m thankful to them and they have been very polite and helpful for me.”

Originally, Natalie called Home Repairs for Good to help with some plumbing issues. She had relied on family for some repair help and considered taking out a loan for other issues, but the repairs just kept piling up, not to mention a shed that had collapsed in her back yard and invasive plants taking over her property.

Once Natalie learned about Home Repairs for Good, she didn’t hesitate. She’s been a regular caller for the last three years. Since then, the plumbing has been repaired, the shed has been removed, the yard has been trimmed and since we recognize how persistent those plants can be, we now check in with Natalie when Marian University is ready for their service day.

“I would certainly recommend Home Repairs for Good to people who qualify,” Natalie confidently states. “I am thankful, I am grateful that this resource was even available to me.”

Last month, Marian University once again connected their incoming medical students with Home Repairs for Good’s homeowners for yard clean-ups, debris removals, a ramp build and more. Taking a very tangible way of showing social determinants of health and how housing very much impacts a person’s success with aging in place. As Natalie will share, she has no intention of moving elsewhere. Making home safe to navigate and move around in is crucial for a great quality of life as you age.

We are deeply grateful for our long-standing partnership with Marian University. Every story matters, and every volunteer hour and repair makes a lasting impact. You can be part of this change. Join us today and help preserve homes for older adults and those with disabilities in Indianapolis. Find your opportunity at homerepairsforgood.org.