Doorways to Dignity

A Home Filled with Memories—and Challenges

When Dave and his wife, Katherine, moved into their Milwaukee home 15 years ago, they never imagined the house that once held so many joyful moments would eventually become a daily struggle.

For two decades, Dave battled diabetes—a fight that ultimately cost him both of his legs. After his double amputation five years ago, simple tasks became nearly impossible. Navigating from the living room to the kitchen was a challenge, and taking a shower in his own home was out of the question. With narrow doorways that couldn’t accommodate his wheelchair, and the only shower located upstairs, Dave was forced to go to the YMCA once a week just to bathe.

Despite these obstacles, Dave and Katherine didn’t want to leave. Their work, family, and beloved community were in Milwaukee. But staying in their home felt like an uphill battle—until a group of teenage boys from Kingdom Workers’ Build Up program arrived.

Building More Than Just Accessibility

Build Up isn’t just a construction training program—it’s a ministry. Designed to equip young men with valuable trade skills and faith-centered mentorship, the program pairs students with volunteers who guide them in both construction and Christian living. Many of these students come from challenging backgrounds, including single-parent homes and under-resourced communities, where opportunities can be limited. But through Build Up, they find purpose, guidance, and the joy of serving others.

For Dave, the transformation began the moment these young men walked through his door. He wasn’t there while they worked—every day was a surprise. But each time he returned, he witnessed his home evolving before his eyes.

The students widened the doorways, allowing his wheelchair to pass through with ease. They built a fully accessible first-floor bathroom, giving him the ability to shower in his own home for the first time in months.

Restoring Dignity and Faith

For Dave, this wasn’t just about construction—it was about dignity.

“When I first met the students, I could tell they had good hearts,” Dave shared. “But I never imagined how much they’d change my life. What they’ve done for me and my wife… I can’t even put into words how grateful we are. Kingdom Workers and these young men have given me my home back.”

For the students, the experience was just as transformative.

As they measured, cut, installed, and problem-solved, they weren’t just learning how to build walls—they were learning what it means to love their neighbor. Guided by volunteers, they reflected on verses like Galatians 5:13: “Serve one another humbly in love.”

One student, Jay, shared his thoughts on the project:

“It’s been truly rewarding doing this project. The gratitude of Dave is through the roof. His wife is grateful too. Truly a humbling experience and a daily reminder of our blessings.”

The Power of Serving Others

Through this project, these young men saw firsthand how their work could make a real difference. They didn’t just restore accessibility—they restored hope.

Every doorway widened, every wall reinforced, and every act of kindness contributed to something far greater than just a renovated home. It reinforced the biblical truth that serving others in love brings people together and strengthens communities.

Because of the Build Up program, Dave no longer has to struggle with daily tasks. He has his home back. And thanks to this experience, a group of young men now carry with them the understanding of what it truly means to serve, love, and uplift their neighbors.

How You Can Help

Want to support the mission of Kingdom Workers and help transform lives through service? Learn more about our Build Up program and how you can get involved today. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading the word, you can be part of restoring dignity and faith—one home at a time.