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Story by Kristin Haller

Student leaders from CM Cares presented their projects and celebrated another successful semester of community work in front of a packed house of donors, volunteers, students, faculty and staff on May 12.

CM Cares, the Department of Construction Management’s community service-learning initiative, infuses leadership traits, team-building and ethics through community service activities. More than 20 projects have been completed since the program’s inception in 2010.

“CM Cares is not just a program, it’s a legacy,” said student project leader Alex Romero.

Two years ago, Romero was a student volunteer on a CM Cares project, and the experience motivated her to continue volunteering and serve as a project leader for the first time this year.

More than 40 companies and organizations supported two projects this spring: the Schneider Family Project and the Zamora Family Project.

“It’s amazing to watch the students bond with these families,” said Joe Dominic of Bobcat of the Rockies, a third-year donor and volunteer.

Sharon and Ernie Zamora were in need of several home modifications for wheelchair accessibility. Sharon has had several surgeries, including one on her spine that left her with limited mobility and the need to use a wheelchair. The project included a new deck and ramp for access to the backyard and modifications to one of the home’s bathrooms, including a roll-in shower.

Previously, Sharon had not been able to access the backyard patio due the steep steps, but now she looks forward to having a tea party with her grandchildren and enjoying colorful Colorado sunsets on the new deck.

The Schneider Family Project also included accessibility modifications to a home. Linda and Chuck Schneider are both retired teachers and have been challenged by regular daily living since Chuck suffered a stroke. The project included a small addition to the house, providing an accessible bathroom and safe access to the outdoors with a ramp and landscaping.

“Our entire perspective on quality of life will change now that Chuck is able to access the areas of our home that he used to enjoy so much,” Linda said.

The CM Cares project application will open later this month for projects that will take place next spring. For more information or to give to CM Cares, please see www.cm.colostate.edu.