In a heartwarming collaboration, Habitat for Humanity of Northwest New Jersey teamed up with the popular renovation show, George to the Rescue, to transform an all-purpose gathering space at Rebecca’s Homestead. This project not only provided a multi-functional area for residents but also highlighted the power of community and partnerships in creating meaningful change.
Leading the charge for Habitat for Humanity was Pam Vreeland of Realty Executives Exceptional Realtors® and a crew of more than a dozen volunteers focused on improving the lives of the adult special needs residents that have made their home at Rebecca’s Homestead.
About Rebecca’s Homestead
Rebecca’s Homestead is in Wantage, New Jersey. Its tagline is appropriately “Where All Are Welcome Inn.” The goal of the facility and program is “to create an inclusive and sustainable community by providing differently abled adults housing and a self-sustaining lifestyle.” Residents of the homestead participate in farming, gardening, art, and other hospitality employment opportunities as part of their daily routines.
Founders Dennis and Michele Elmers created Rebecca’s Homestead in honor of their daughter, Rebecca, and the friends they met along their journey to access adequate care and programs for disabled adults. Their desire was to create a space that focused on employment training and community and shied away from the traditional sense of a residential facility.
The all-purpose, shared space at Rebecca’s Homestead is a vital part of the residential community, functioning as a hub for social gatherings, educational programs, and skill-building. However, the room had long needed a makeover to be handicap accessible and better serve its diverse purposes.
Vreeland, Habitat for Humanity Working to Build Communities
Pam Vreeland has always been more than a real estate professional; she is a community builder at heart- whether within the professional community or various towns in northwest New Jersey. Vreeland has 25 years of experience working as a realtor and with local real estate professionals at the Sussex County Association, where she was named Realtor® of the Year in 2023. Additionally, she has headed committees for fundraising for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, coordinated blood drives, and dedicated numerous years to the Lake Mohawk Preservation Foundation. Vreeland and her husband also own a farm where they rent part of the farm to offer therapy through animals for mental health, trauma, autism, and special needs.
However, Vreeland says she has found her passion project in Habitat for Humanity. Vreeland initially became involved with Habitat for Humanity after participating in Realtors® Care Day, a National Association of REALTORS® sponsored community outreach initiative. As part of the program, grants are available to members of the community for home repairs and renovations, and if awarded, are completed with the help of the local Habitat for Humanity chapter.
Vreeland joined Habitat for Humanity of Sussex County as a board member in 2022. After six months, she became the President of the chapter. The Sussex chapter previously worked with Rebecca’s Homestead to make repairs to the facility and build new additions for the residents. The chapter’s previous experience with Rebecca’s Homestead is how Vreeland and Habitat for Humanity identified the need to remodel the multi-purpose space.
George to the Rescue Steps In
The renovation project took an exciting turn when George to the Rescue, the NBC show known for its heartfelt renovations, joined the effort. Hosted by George Oliphant, the show specializes in turning dreams into reality for deserving individuals and organizations. George and his team were immediately drawn to the story of Rebecca’s Homestead and the collaborative effort behind the renovation.
The team from George to the Rescue worked tirelessly to reimagine the space. The designers and staff paid careful attention to the needs and preferences of the residents, resulting in a room that would be both functional and welcoming. A crew of twelve members from Habitat for Humanity conducted the renovation work with help from sponsor, 3M.
The vision included:
- Accessible Design: Several architectural barriers were removed from the room layout, allowing for easy access for residents with mobility issues. Residents in wheelchairs would no longer struggle to enter or exit the space.
- Adaptable Layouts: Organizational furniture, a mini-kitchenette, and open spaces were incorporated to accommodate various activities, from educational workshops to social and family gatherings.
- Multi-Functional, Creative Spaces: The team added spaces equipped to manage art projects to encourage creativity and self-expression. The small kitchenette would make it easy to wash art supplies and make snacks.
- Comfortable Atmosphere: Warm lighting, an upgraded ceiling, new flooring, cozy seating, and inviting décor were added to make the room feel like a place where residents and members of the local community would enjoy their time.
A Labor of Love
The renovation process was a true labor of love with the Habitat for Humanity team and George’s crew working side by side. Throughout the process, the spirit of collaboration was palpable. Vreeland’s leadership and unwavering dedication inspired everyone involved. “Seeing people come together for a shared purpose was incredible,” she said. “This project is proof of the positive things that can come to fruition when we work together as a community, for our community.”
The Big Reveal
The big reveal was a moment of pure joy for residents of Rebecca’s Homestead, one that the public will be able to enjoy when the episode airs on March X, 2025. As George unveiled the newly renovated space, big smiles and gratitude filled the room. Residents marveled at the thoughtful design and the possibilities the new space offered.
“When the renovation of the rec room was done, we took a group photo,” Vreeland explained. “As we were posing, one of the residents began to quietly sing ‘Amazing Grace.’ Normally head down and shy, he made his way over to his aide and his voice became louder. It was a visible and audible representation of how much this means to him, and how connected he is to the community and facilities at Rebecca’s Homestead. It inspired everyone involved in the project to continue to give their time and energy to changing lives- and we cannot wait for the next opportunity!”
People First Mentality
For Vreeland, the reveal was a poignant reminder of why she chose real estate, and why she chose to work under the Realty Executives banner. “Realty Executives has always emphasized the importance of people over profits,” she said. “I originally chose real estate because I had two young children and needed work-life balance. I have been blessed with the support of Doug Radford (Co-owner of Realty Executives Exceptional Realtors®) and Cathy Kut (office manager), who encouraged me to get involved with Habitat. I would never work for anyone else. Between real estate and Habitat for Humanity, I fill my cup by helping those around me.”
As of January 2025, the Sussex chapter of Habitat for Humanity merged with Warren County, creating the newly formed Habitat for Humanity of Northwest New Jersey. Together, the group intends to continue to give back to the community and demonstrate the Realtor® spirit that shines through Vreeland and her peers.
A Legacy of Hope
The renovated space at Rebecca’s Homestead stands as a testament to the power of community and collaboration. It is a place where residents can come together, build skills, and create memories for years to come. More importantly, it is a symbol of hope and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to thrive.
Pam Vreeland, Habitat for Humanity of Northwest New Jersey, and George to the Rescue have left an indelible mark on Rebecca’s Homestead and the surrounding community. It is a shining example of how individuals and organizations can come together to make a difference.
“We continue to be impressed by Executives such as Pam Vreeland, who have a heart of service,” said Patrick van den Bossche, President of Realty Executives International. “Real estate starts and ends with communities and the relationships one builds within them. The time spent on renovating the multi-purpose room at Rebecca’s Homestead may seem like a flash of time in the grand scheme of things, but its impact is exponential. It ties the volunteers, residents, and community together in a common goal where everyone reaps the benefits.” In a world that often feels divided, projects like this remind us of the incredible things we can achieve when we come together. With real estate professionals like Pam Vreeland and organizations like Habitat for Humanity and George to the Rescue leading the charge, the future looks bright for communities everywhere.
