A fresh coat of hope: CertaPro Painters refreshes St. Jude House with bright, welcoming atmosphere

When people walk through the doors of St. Jude House in Crown Point, they aren’t just seeking shelter. They are searching for safety, peace, and a fresh start. Thanks to CertaPro Painters of Northwest Indiana, the nonprofit’s residents are now greeted by brighter, warmer walls that reflect that hope and comfort.

The renovation project began with a simple connection. Anna Schoon, executive director of St. Jude House, explained that her development director met Mark Powers, vice president of operations at CertaPro, through Rotary. A conversation followed, and soon, the team at CertaPro was ready to help.

“When Mark and his team offered to take on this project, we were excited,” Schoon said. “How the house looks and feels really matters to the staff, the clients, and the people who come here. It’s important that it’s clean, bright, and comfortable.”

For Schoon and her team, the transformation has been about more than just appearances. The shelter, which provides safe refuge for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, sees heavy use every day. From donations being carried in and out to children playing in common areas, the wear and tear can quickly add up.

“The walls got banged up and the corners got damaged,” Schoon said. “After a while, that started to show. This project was really refreshing, creating a sunnier, calmer space for the people who need it most.”

As part of the renovation project, CertaPro repainted St. Jude House’s lobby, corridors, and dining room, replacing the darker gray tones with light yellows and blues. Protective corner guards and durable wall coverings were also installed in high-traffic areas to ensure the refresh lasts for years to come.

Powers and his team look forward to projects like this because they align with CertaPro’s values and community commitment.

“It’s always good to partner with local organizations,” Powers said. “St. Jude House is serving the community, and this is our chance to give back. We’re happy to brighten up the space, make it more welcoming, and create an environment that feels uplifting for residents and staff.”

The work, while intensive, was carefully planned to avoid disrupting the shelter’s daily operations. It was important that Powers and his crews were able to complete the job quickly while remaining respectful of the people who live and work in the building.

For the families who call St. Jude House home, the impact of the renovation has been immediate.

“Having a clean, bright, comfortable environment benefits everyone’s mental health,” Schoon said. “When people arrive, they often expect something very different from what they see. They’re surprised by the warmth and friendliness of the facility. A fresh coat of paint in our common areas helps break down the stigma of what people imagine a shelter to be.”

Schoon hopes this partnership inspires other businesses to reach out to nonprofits in need of support. From plumbing and electrical work to landscaping and housekeeping, the needs are ongoing.

“Nonprofits are facing unprecedented times,” Schoon said. “Any partnerships or support that we can find are really important. If businesses are thinking about helping, I encourage them to start that conversation.”

For Powers, the collaboration reflects the heart of what CertaPro strives to do in Northwest Indiana. The company works to build relationships and invest in the community.

“Anytime we’re able to step in and brighten up a space like this, it’s rewarding,” Powers said. “We just hope other businesses see what’s possible and realize they can make a difference too.”

Community members interested in supporting St. Jude House can connect with Brielle Hauptli, the shelter’s volunteer and outreach coordinator, for opportunities to give their time. Donations and partnership inquiries can be directed to Schoon or her team.

Keeping St. Jude House welcoming and well cared for is a shared effort. With a little color on the walls, that effort now shines even brighter.

Community members and businesses interested in refreshing their own spaces or partnering on a project can learn more about CertaPro Painters and its services by visiting certapro.com/nwi or calling 219-364-6083.