Madelyn Smith earns Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist designation
August 16, 2022
Madelyn Smith, Operations and Volunteers Director at Home Works, has earned a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation, identifying her as part of a group of professionals nationwide with the knowledge necessary to modify a home to meet the unique needs of the older population, disabled owners or their visitors.
The National Association of Home Builders, in partnership with the AARP and NAHB Research Center, created the CAPS program, which includes training and education on the technical, business and customer service skills essential to compete in the fastest-growing segment of the residential remodeling industry — home modifications for aging-in-place.
The certification complements the statewide effort of Home Works to repair homes of vulnerable low income homeowners at no cost, allowing them to age in place in their homes and thus keeping multigenerational families intact. Neighborhoods are strengthened when longtime residents are able to remain living there for years to come.
Home Works was founded in Columbia in 1996 and its mission is to show God’s love to those in need by repairing homes, assisting in youth development, and empowering communities to care for their own. At every Home Works volunteer repair site, compassion meets construction, meaningful relationships are built with vulnerable neighbors, and valuable new trade skills are learned.
In three days of CAPS coursework, Smith took part in a curriculum incorporating market demographics, communication techniques, marketing, common barriers and solutions, building codes and standards, product ideas and business management. Graduates include remodelers, builders, designers, architects, occupational therapists and other professionals who help homeowners remain in their homes safely, independently and comfortably as they age.
“I look forward to furthering the aging-in-place work we’re doing at Home Works by helping vulnerable homeowners live in their homes for a long, long time,” said Smith.
For more information on Home Works or to volunteer in the Midlands or Lowcountry, visit homeworksofamerica.org or Instagram @homeworksofamerica.
For additional information about the CAPS program, visit www.nahb.org/caps.
