The Bismarck‑Mandan chapter of Professional Women in Building (PWB) has turned a simple idea into a lasting community project. Volunteers rolled up their sleeves to renovate two apartments on the top floor of the Bismarck Cancer Center’s lodging complex last year, and they returned this spring to finish the final two units on the bottom floor.
Volunteer effort and local partnership
“We did a lot of personal touches, things like heated blankets,” said PWB President Karli Skjeret. The volunteers learned from patients that they often feel cold after radiation treatment, so they added heated blankets and other intentional upgrades to make the space feel more like home.
The project was carried out in partnership with the Bismarck‑Mandan Home Builders Association and the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation. Sara Kelsch, marketing director for the Cancer Center, explained that the 20‑unit apartment building provides essential lodging for patients who must travel long distances for daily radiation therapy. “You don’t want to be traveling back and forth, 100 miles each way, for treatment on a daily basis,” she said.
Renovations focus on comfort and dignity
When the volunteers first inspected the apartments, they found the units were “old and definitely in need of some tender love and care and updates,” Kelsch recalled. After completing the top‑floor units, the team felt compelled to finish the bottom‑floor apartments as well, even as material costs rose. “We started planning and fundraising a little earlier this year, because costs went up,” noted volunteer Kari Anderson.
Beyond fresh paint and new furniture, the renovations include practical amenities that directly address patient needs. Heated blankets, extra seating, and thoughtful décor were added to create a welcoming environment where patients can rest between treatments.
Impact on patients and families
For the volunteers, the greatest reward is hearing how the upgrades have helped patients feel more at ease. “We’ve been able to hear stories from patients that stayed here last year, after our remodel was done. Just hearing stories about how they felt comfortable staying here makes it worthwhile,” Skjeret said.
The apartments are offered at $20 per night, and they are free for patients who cannot afford the fee. Last year, the lodging program provided housing for 270 patients, and the 20‑unit complex remains within walking distance of the treatment center, reducing travel stress for families.
Community support sustains the effort
The renovation project demonstrates how local volunteers, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can collaborate to address a critical health‑related need. By improving the living conditions for cancer patients, the Bismarck community reinforces its commitment to caring for those who come to the city for life‑saving treatment.
As the project moves forward, PWB and its partners plan to continue fundraising and seeking additional volunteers to maintain the apartments and explore further enhancements that support patient well‑being.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
