Over the past few weekends, painters from Schenck Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center (CCC) have volunteered their time to help out individuals from SAFE, Inc. of Transylvania County.  After beginning the painting project during National Volunteer Week, Schenck painters have chosen to continue the project in an effort to paint all the interior rooms of the SAFE house. 

SAFE Inc. of Transylvania County provides shelter, programs, and services to people affected by domestic and/or sexual violence.  The emergency shelter for SAFE, Inc. of Transylvania County can comfortably house sixteen women, but has housed as many as twenty-four women.  SAFE’s mission is to break the cycle of domestic violence and sexual abuse.

For this project, the Schenck painters first checked the walls for dents and holes that would need putty or caulk.  Then they taped off all the baseboards, doors, and windows.  Finally, they laid down drop cloths and began painting.  So far, the Schenck painters have painted the dining room and part of the office.  On their next visit, the painters will finish the office and then move on to the hallway and living room.

One Schenck painter, Monica Ramos, was particularly excited about working with her fellow students on this project.  “It was an amazing experience working with our union painters.  We worked as a group and got things done.”  Ramos went on to comment on working with SAFE Inc. of Transylvania County:  “It was an amazing feeling knowing we are helping people, and them giving us a chance to show them what we are learning in this program.  I’m glad I volunteered for this project, and I can’t wait to see the results when we are done.” 

The painters’ hard work has not gone unnoticed.  Teesie Townsend, Crisis Services Director of SAFE, Inc. of Transylvania County, has been extremely pleased with the work of the Schenck painters.  “They are a professional group.  Not only were they well managed, but they were also a fun group to work with.  Their instructor is doing a great job with these students.  They were well organized, and they explained their work methods very well.”  Townsend went on to say:  “They are determined to finish the project, and we definitely appreciate all of their hard work.”