Once Strangers, Now Sisters

When it comes to critical home repairs, many older adults struggle to find help that is both affordable and reliable. After learning about Home Repairs for Good at an IMPD neighborhood meeting, Darlene, a 67-year-old homeowner, was able to receive critical repairs at no cost. With the support of our volunteers, her gutters were fixed, and the overgrowth along her fence line was cleared.

But it was during this yard project that we heard a touching story of how a single act of kindness turned complete strangers into sisters at heart.

As volunteers from Young Catholic Professionals of Indianapolis got to work, Darlene mentioned that her friend Beth wanted to stop by and lend a hand. The more she shared about their friendship, the more we were moved by the story of how the two had first met.

In 2024, after a large storm left branches scattered throughout her yard, Darlene turned to the Nextdoor app looking for help. Many of the responses she received were from companies or individuals offering their services—for a price. That is until Beth sent a private message offering to help for free.

Beth remembers thinking, “This poor woman is just waiting for someone to say, ‘Hey, I’ll come help.’” 

Looking back, Beth expected it to be a “one-and-done” kind of favor. Instead, the two of them quickly discovered how much they had in common.

One of the strongest bonds they formed was the shared loss of their mothers.

Before meeting Beth, Darlene had kept her daily struggles to herself. Likewise, Beth found someone she could truly open up to, appreciating the comfort and safety their friendship provides. For this reason, both women credit their mothers, watching from heaven, for playing a part in bringing them together.

“Even though she’s had a tough time over the last ten years or so, she never complains,” Beth shares.

Today, Darlene is a proud great-grandmother of four granddaughters. Beth, who retired after 32 years with UPS, stays active through golf and bowling leagues and by volunteering at Eagle Creek Park and the Crooked Creek Food Pantry.

When they spend time together, they simply enjoy each other’s company—whether that means visiting their favorite restaurants or going antique shopping. Their time together feels effortless, and they never seem to run out of things to talk about, much like sisters.

Their friendship is a reminder that making a difference often begins with a willingness to lend a hand. As Darlene puts it, “Be kind and helpful. You just don’t know what others are going through.”

To learn more about how you too can make a difference in someone’s life, visit homerepairsforgood.org/volunteering.