Keeping AWARE's Homes and Offices Running Smoothly

Behind the scenes at AWARE, our dedicated Facilities and Maintenance team works tirelessly to ensure our 60+ locations across Montana are well-maintained and operating efficiently. From group homes that provide supportive living for those seeking independence to our administrative offices, the maintenance staff are the unsung heroes that keep AWARE's mission moving forward.

A Statewide Footprint

With properties spanning the state, including bricks and mortar in Anaconda, Belgrade, Billings, Butte, Great Falls, Helena, and Missoula, the maintenance team has a massive geographic area to cover. Their responsibilities include:

·         Coordinating repairs and renovations

·         Overseeing landscaping and groundskeeping

·         Conducting preventative maintenance

·         Managing utility services and costs

·         Ensuring compliance with safety codes and regulations

"Our team takes great pride in maintaining AWARE's homes and workplaces," said Operations Lead Steve Francisco. "We strive to create comfortable, functional spaces that allow our clients and staff to focus on AWARE's core mission."

More Than Just Maintenance

While keeping heating equipment running, roofs repaired, and yards trimmed is a major part of the job, the maintenance team goes above and beyond. They frequently lend a hand with tasks like:

·         Helping employees with office moves

·         Assisting with client moves and transportation

·         Decorating for holidays to make spaces feel welcoming

·         Fielding calls for any location-based needs or issues

·         They do it all!

"Our maintenance staff have to be problem-solvers who can handle any curveball that comes their way," Steve explained. "Their positive attitudes and dedication to our clients are invaluable."

Which is why we’d like you to join us in celebrating the hard work of the following individuals who make up the maintenance team:

Anaconda

·         Donna Kelly, Project Specialist

·         Brandon Zuniga, Maintenance

·         Darin Schedel, Custodian

·         Greg Wyant, Maintenance

Billings

·         Alan Hopstad, Maintenance

Butte

·         Bob Taylor, Maintenance

·         John Brown, Maintenance

Great Falls

·         Garry Cardwell, Maintenance

·         Junior Lum, Maintenance

Missoula

·         Rico Rivera, Maintenance

Next time you visit an AWARE home or office, take a moment to appreciate the hard work that goes into maintaining it. Our maintenance team plays a vital role in creating the supportive environments that help AWARE change lives every day.