The Kane District Ramp Ministry, a growing alliance of churches from seven counties—including Warren, McKean, Forest, and Clarion—is working to make homes more accessible, one ramp at a time.

The volunteer-led group designs and installs ramps at no cost to those who need them. Each ramp is semi-permanent and can be relocated if the recipient moves or no longer needs it.

“Over the years our ministry has built over 300 ramps for people in need,” said Dean Clough, Kane Ramp Ministry Coordinator. “We are doing this as an opportunity to show God's love to people, to be his hands, and help people get back into their homes and gain mobility."

Volunteers include students, retirees, builders, nurses, pastors, and others from a wide range of backgrounds, all brought together by a shared mission to serve.

“I am a part of a lot of ministries, but this is my favorite” said volunteer Harold Bloomgren. “You can change somebody's life in half a day, sometimes less. We come here and there are people that are basically in prison because they can't get out of their homes, and by the time we leave they are free.”

Fellow volunteer Bill Eaker added, “I really can't explain how much this changes peoples' lives, and the volunteers too. We love doing this and we will keep coming back until we can't anymore.” 

This year marks the first time the Kane District Ramp Ministry will participate in Warren Gives, a one-day online donation event that supports nonprofits throughout the region.

Organizers and volunteers say they are hopeful for a strong show of support to help grow their mission and reach even more people in need.