In May 2022, The Chase Home launched ‘Pave the Way Forward’ to raise funds to repave its driveway, a campaign that has successfully concluded.
“Part of the driveway was completed last October, but weather and scheduling issues delayed full completion until just recently,” said Meme Wheeler, executive director of The Chase Home. “We are thrilled and incredibly grateful for the generous support from the community.
This support included major financial contributions from LeMay Family Goodworks. “Michelle LeMay and her team were instrumental in helping us complete this project—we cannot thank them enough,” said Board President Brian Gibb.
Aside from poor aesthetics, Wheeler said the prior driveway presented significant hazards to vehicles, especially in the winter. “There were potholes that created issues for staff and delivery drivers,” she explained. “We were spending a lot of money each year to address problems that kept getting worse.”
In looking to the future, Gibb said plans are underway to “reimagine” The Chase Home’s 26-acre campus. “We believe there is room for growth, as the needs of at-risk kids intensify in an economic landscape that continues to put stressors on organizations like The Chase Home that serve as community anchors.”
Wheeler agreed and added, “We thank all those who helped us literally ‘pave the way forward.’”
Founded in 1877, The Chase Home in Portsmouth serves at-risk youth through prevention, early intervention, residential and community-based programs. Some youth are served in the community while others live at The Chase Home. To support The Chase Home, click here to donate.