When Richard Gibson joined Working In Neighborhoods (WIN) as the new Construction Coordinator for the Aging in Place Home Repair Program, he found himself returning to an organization that had once helped him keep his own home. Nearly three decades after turning a curiosity about construction into a career, Gibson is now helping older adults remain safe and comfortable in their homes.
After 27 years in construction, Gibson brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of both building practices and people. His interest in construction began while working at a chemical company. Although he was unhappy about being moved to a night-shift supervisory position, he used the opportunity to enroll in carpentry classes.
“I always wanted to know about construction,” Gibson said. “I could fix things, but I wanted to understand the numbers behind it.”
That training earned him a carpenter’s certificate and launched a side business doing small residential repairs while he worked the night shift. Later, after being downsized from the chemical industry, Gibson faced financial hardship and turned to WIN for help. A housing counselor assisted him in securing a loan modification that allowed him to keep his home while growing what was once a side job into a small business.
“I’ll never forget the diligence of that young lady,” he said. “Fast forward, and now I’m working here at WIN. Who would have thought?”
Gibson, an active participant in the Beekman Corridor Coalition, learned about the Construction Coordinator opening through WIN Community Organizer Mary Metzmeier. Reading the job description, he immediately felt it matched both his experience and values.
Today, he oversees repairs for the Aging in Place program, meeting with homeowners, assessing needs, coordinating contractors, and helping seniors prioritize improvements that enhance safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency. Gibson believes the most important part of his job is listening.
“My gift is to listen,” he said. “The goal is to leave seniors safer than we found them.”
Contact Richard Gibson at (513) 541-4109 ext. 108 or rgibson@wincincy.org.