ReFIT was founded in 1997 by a group of local general contractors, inspired by a deeply personal experience.

In 1996, contractor Bill Markt’s son, Jess, was in a devastating car accident while attending the University of Oregon, leaving him partially paralyzed and reliant on a wheelchair. Determined to help, Bill’s fellow contractors came together to modify the family’s home—adding ramps, widening doorways, and remodeling the bathroom to restore Jess’s independence.

Their generosity didn’t stop there. With support from Jess’s fraternity brothers, they also adapted his fraternity house, ensuring he could return to college and continue his life.

Moved by the impact of these efforts, Bill helped establish The Remodeler’s Heritage Foundation in 1997, dedicated to providing no-cost home modifications for others facing mobility challenges.

In 2006, the name changed to ReFIT (Remodeling for Independence Together). Since then, ReFIT has helped individuals and families across Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties live safely and independently at home.

With the exception of our Executive Director, ReFIT is entirely volunteer-driven. Our projects are built by professional contractors and remodelers, and community partners, using donated time, materials and funds raised by our generous supporters.

BUILD 2025 - ReFIT Fundraiser

Help support ReFIT's mission of no-cost home modifications for low-income homeowners with disabilities.