On Saturday, May 16, many of Edmonds-based Chermak Construction’s carpenters and office staff will join forces to build a ramp for another individual in need. This is the company’s seventh year of participation in Rampathon, sponsored by Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBA). Around the region, 21 different ramps will be built by different MBA-member companies.

The Chermak team appreciates the assistance of Dunn Lumber, which for seven years has generously donated the basic lumber package for all the ramps, plus some extra touches like special weatherproof plywood surfaces and clear cedar railing.

Other sponsors of the event are AAA Kartak Glass & Closet, and HomeStreet Bank.

This year’s Chermak’s Rampathon recipient is 80-year-old Marjorie Cirillo, who lives in Bothell. She suffers from arthritis and severe circulatory issues. Until now, it’s been impossible for Cirillo to get out of her home without assistance. Even with help, the journey outside has been treacherous. She navigates with a wheelchair and if pressed, she shakily resorts to a walker.

Jon Elkins has led the Chermak team for the last five years. He takes it on himself to plan the project, and coordinates the team — on a volunteer basis.

The past six ramp recipients have ranged in age from 47 to 95, and they have suffered from a variety of ailments including stroke, cancer, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, spinal cord injury and other traumatic injuries. What they all have in common is desperate need.

“Freedom to come and go from our homes is something we all take for granted, and for these folks, getting a ramp means freedom,” notes Chermak Marketing Manager Kathy Hashbarger. “That’s what our company likes to do in everything we do — ‘We like to Make a Difference.’ It’s in our company tagline.”