Renovations

The BRICK was blessed by the generosity of Boyd and Marie Carlson when they donated use of our homesite in Ashland for the first ten years.  As the lease drew to a close our task force confirmed that our current location is key to access for our clients and success for our organization.  The central location, proximity to a BART bus stop, the Ashland Rails to Trail System (corridor), a full-service grocery store, and other service agencies are essential for program participants.  In 2017, we bought the building from Marie, with favorable terms.

But the building was lacking in numerous ways, so we have worked with stakeholders, funders, and architects to carefully plan for capital improvements which improve safety, efficiency and the user experience for our program participants, our volunteers, and our staff.

As soon as we secured the building, our team took steps to be ready for a full renovation.  Those initial improvements include:

• 11.38 KW solar array for energy conservation and cost savings
• Dock lift for staff and volunteer ease, safety, and efficiency
• Cube cargo van with 2-pallet capacity and standing room
• Pallet racking for vertical warehouse storage
• Pallet lift to access high shelving
• Walk-in cooler for greater produce storage capacity
• Walk-in freezer for greater meat storage capacity

 With loan and grant funding from USDA Rural Development, a Focus on Energy incentive, donations from Bayfield County and the Town of Bayfield, as well as numerous donations from individual supporters, The BRICK was able to make major renovations to the pantry and warehouse at its Ashland facility.  Phase 1 of these long-awaited upgrades dramatically enhanced the public’s experience with a more welcoming and cheerful atmosphere, improved safety and work-flow for staff and volunteers, and systems upgrades to save on energy and expenses.  Phase 1 began in February 2024 and was completed in July 2024.  These components include:

• Double-door airlock entrance for energy conservation and comfort
• Private registration desk for greater confidentiality
• Larger waiting room with ample seating
• Two public restrooms with changing stations to ease overuse
• Direct exit to parking lot from pantry to reduce congestion
• Custodial room with dedicated utility sink and storage
• Coat room for volunteers for improved convenience
• Larger meeting room to accommodate full board of directors
• Dedicated bookkeeper office for greater privacy and security
• LED lighting for energy-efficiency and savings
• Whole-building heat pump HVAC system to better control temperature for better comfort and food safety
• On-demand water heater for energy-efficiency and savings

This renovation project is a major undertaking for The BRICK.  The first phase is the culmination of years of planning by many leaders in the organization.  But the work isn’t done.  Phase 2 is still in development, which includes vital components including:

• Roof over west loading dock to provide additional shelter for equipment while unloading food donations
• Steps to ground level for staff and volunteers’ safety and efficiency
• Sink in warehouse for improved food-handling hygiene
• Operating windows to provide daylighting for work areas which currently have none

The BRICK’s leaders have secured some of the funding, but cannot complete the work without additional support.  The campaign committee’s current focus is on one-on-one meetings with donors interested in making multi-year pledges to support further renovations and ensure The BRICK’s long-term ability to provide essential human services to community members.  If you’re interested in learning more about The BRICK’s next steps, contact Liz Seefeldt at director@thebrickministries.org.