From Recovery to Renovation: How One Painter’s Faith Transformed the New Maternity Home
The maternity home in Marshall is ready for moms and babies, all thanks in part to the dedication of painter Michael Mehrhoff. Michael worked so meticulously that when residents move in later this summer, they will step into a beautifully fresh, clean, and welcoming environment.
Completing the project was a massive undertaking. Michael painted more than 20 rooms and four long hallways in the 6,500 square-foot building, entirely on his own. Because he maintains a full-time day job, he spent several weeks transforming the home late into the night.
As a seasoned professional, Michael relied heavily on his professional background to manage the intense workload.
“I am a journeyman painter in the local 802 Union in Madison,” said Michael. “Having the experience with the other trades was vital to making this project happen,” said Michael.
Navigating around the schedules of other contractors proved to be his biggest hurdle.
“To keep the sequence of trades going in order meant I had to be there and stay ahead of the flooring guy so they could get their work done, as well as the other trades coming in after them,” remembered Michael. “There were a lot of long days for me working full time during the day and then on The Elizabeth House in the evenings. I surrendered myself and my time to God and asked for His strength to carry me through, which He always does.”
Michael found working on The Elizabeth House deeply rewarding. As a husband and the father of four daughters, the mission of supporting women in need resonates with him. He knows anyone can face unexpected hardships. Ultimately, his labor of love flows from a deep sense of gratitude for how God transformed his own story.
“I am a recovering addict whose life was completely changed thanks to God’s grace and mercy,” Michael said. “So today when He tells me to show up where He wants me, I show up. This was definitely one of those times, and I’m grateful I can do that today. The people I have met in connection with Care Net have all been so amazing, loving and helpful.”
Care Net Pregnancy Center of Dane County and The Elizabeth House in Marshall extend a massive thank you to Michael. Your hard work, talent, and sacrifice have truly helped turn this house into a home.
Would you like to learn more about donating or volunteering at The Elizabeth House? We have all the info here.