Shiner Rotary Club participates in annual Texas Ramp Project

  • Shown above are members of the Shiner Rotary Club working to build a new handicap wheelchair ramp for a Shiner resident.
    Shown above are members of the Shiner Rotary Club working to build a new handicap wheelchair ramp for a Shiner resident.

    The Shiner Rotary Club in conjunction with the Texas Ramp Project built a handicapped wheelchair accessible ramp for an individual in June. 
    The Texas Ramp Project is a non-profit organization that builds over 2,400 ramps a year. They build these ramps for low-income disabled or elderly people who can’t otherwise afford to buy one. Ramps are built with volunteer labor, keeping costs at a minimum.
    “The Texas Ramp Project is a statewide group that has been providing more accessibility to homebound Texans for the past 40 years,” Rotary Club member Alex Remschel said. “They have been a great service organization to partner with these past few years.”
    “The Shiner Rotary Club works with the Texas Ramp Project annually to provide a ramp for a person or persons in need within the Shiner community. People are recommended for a ramp through a third party to include doctors, social workers, and service organizations. 
    The Texas Ramp Project informs the Rotary Club of Shiner that they have a project coming up, and we provide the financial backing and ‘semi-adequate’ muscle to complete the project.”
    The most recent ramp built cost less than $500. “The cost of each project differs based on the size and scope of what is needed,” Remschel said. “Although this was less than $500, we have had builds that were large in scope and cost over $1,000 for materials. The Rotary Club fully funds each local project.”
    There were around 15 Rotary Club members and student volunteers who helped build this ramp. “We take pride in having our youth participate and learn the importance of service,” Remschel said.
    Remschel said this job was very rewarding for both the Rotary Club and the party involved. 
    “In Rotary, we believe in ‘service above self’ at all times,” Remschel said. “Our entire focus is on making a difference in the world with our international, regional, and local initiatives. We hope that by serving we can provide a positive impact that will make someone’s life a little better than the day before.”
    Remschel said the Shiner Rotary Club will continue to build ramps in and around the area as they become available through the Texas Ramp Project. 
    “A project like this always helps everyone focus on our belief in ‘Service above Self’,” Remschel said. “We strive to impact different layers of society through our international, regional and local efforts.”
    The Rotary Club is always welcoming new members according to Remschel. “Service isn’t about money and accolades,” Remschel said. “It is about helping others and truly making a difference for people. If that describes you, come join a great group of people who are doing great things for our community.”