Jennifer Crosby’s 2013 decision to donate her design firm services to Sunshine on a Ranney Day, a nonprofit that renovates homes for the comfort of children with special needs, has made a difference beyond her expectations.
Crosby Design Group completed its 15th project for the charity in August.
“I became committed,” said Crosby. “My design firm has taken on two to three makeovers a year.”
Holly and Peter Ranney started Sunshine on a Ranney Day in 2012 as a way to give back to the community.
“We were inspired by a church sermon that encouraged us to use our networks and resources to help others,” said Holly Ranney. “We were going to do bedroom makeovers. Applications started coming in and we realized that these children needed more than a one-room makeover.”
Crosby, now a board member with the nonprofit, first contacted Holly Ranney when she learned of the organization’s assistance to the family of Tripp Halstead. He suffered a brain injury as an infant in 2012 when a tree branch fell on him. Halstead died last year at age 7.
With Tripp’s home renovation at $200,000, Crosby was moved to reach out to the nonprofit.
“I have a son that is a year difference in age and I was drawn to how I could help,” said Crosby.
“She was like an angel,” said Holly Ranney . “We needed design help. She and her firm have been helping us with thousands of dollars of design time.”
Crosby Design Group oversaw construction, demolition work, electrical design, furniture, bedding and more.
Recently, Crosby joined builders and subcontractors in completion of a new home for Devon Gales. He is the former Southern University football player who was paralyzed after being hit in a game against the University of Georgia in 2015.
“We did all the interior finishes,” said Crosby. “When we first met Devon his parents had to lift him up. Now he has independence. Sunshine [on a Ranney Day] is giving families back quality and independence.”
The Crosby firm’s work includes bathroom spaces compliant with the American with Disabilities Act, mechanical lift furniture, staircase chair lifts and pool lifts among other provisions.
The firm takes on other charitable projects annually. At Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta – Egleston, rooms were converted to hotel style suites to accommodate parents’ overnight stays.
“Design is what I do for a living,” said Crosby. “With that I can offer charities something that helps with their mission.”
Who’s doing good? Each Sunday, we write about a deserving individual, charity events such as fun-runs, volunteer projects and other community gatherings that benefit a good cause. To suggest an event or person for us to cover, contact us at ajc.doinggood@gmail.com
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