When Chuck Armstrong received a letter of recognition from the Housing & Building Association of Colorado Springs in 1957 (known then as the Colorado Springs Home Builders Association) for a heroic act he performed at a local pool, he didn't imagine that 59 years later he would in turn be thanking the HBA for extending a helping hand to him. 

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One June 18, 1957, a 13-year old Armstrong saved a child from drowning at the Antlers Hotel in downtown Colorado Springs.  His actions of bravery and quick thinking were recognized by the Home Builders Association in a hand-typed letter.  Now, Armstrong is thanking the HBA for what he may also consider an act of heroism.  Through HBA Cares, a much-needed ADA-accessible ramp was built for Armstrong on his wife, Helen, at their home in Manitou Springs.  A substitute teacher in the Colorado Springs area for three decades and counting, Helen isn't ready to let her mobility issues stop her from living her life.  The new ramp will help her continue to be active outside of the home, as well as enjoy the Armstrong family home of over a half-century even longer.  

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"We sorely need this access as we age in the fourth quarter of our lives and ailments are springing up," commented Armstrong.  The ramp was built entirely with volunteer labor, donated materials, and other costs that were covered by HBA members and HBA Cares.  Armstrong gave special thanks to Larry Gilland (owner) adn Dawn Streb (project architecht) at LGA Studios, and Lain Chappell's crew at Solid Rock Custom Homes, for designing and building the ramp in a manner that preserves the look and feel of his unique home, which was designed in 1957 by Frank Lloyd Wright's granddaughter, Elizabeth Wright Ingraham.  

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"HBA Cares is honored to be a part of this project in helping to make a positive impact to the Armstrong's quality of life," said Mike DeGrant, President.  "It's always gratifying to be involved in projects that help out people in our community, but this story has an extra special ending to it," he added.  

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Though its name has changed over the years, the Housing & Building Association of Colorado Springs's commitment to building community through its membership and philanthropy remains the same.  From praising local heroes to helping neighbors stay in their homes through their golden years, the HBA is proud to be part of the stories that come full circle in such a positive way.  DeGrant echoed that sentiment.  "HBA Cares is fortunate to be associated with the numerous members of the HBA who never fail to step up  with their time and talents to give back to our community on projects that make a difference in people's lives," he remarked.  

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Project Leadership

Coodinator: Lain Chappell, Solid Rock Custom Homes

Architect: Dawn Leone, LGA Studios

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Trade Partners

American Institute of Building Design

BMC

Budco Electric

City of Manitou Springs

Colorado Springs Utilities

Groninger Concrete

Kanzler Foundations Inc. 

K-Rand Painting

LGA Studios

HBA Cares

Pedersen Construction

Pikes Peak Regional Building Department

Pro-Build Lumber

Pro-Ex Contractors

Pryor Floor

RMG Engineering

Sherwin Williams

Solid Rock Custom Homes

Timbers Diversified

Transit Mix Concrete