Donors Build the Future of Hospice with "Green" Residence

Chilton House made history in 1991 as Massachusetts's first residential hospice for the terminally ill. Now, almost two decades later, the residence is preparing to make history once again by renovating the Cambridge building to create New England's first "green-certified" hospice.Chilton House with new, energy-efficient windows

Chilton House will implement at least 15 different eco-friendly items that will help it meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification in the homes category. Updates include solar panels to preheat water and zero-emission Icynene foam insulation (view the complete list).

At the heart of the project will be the installation of three 450-foot geothermal wells connected to a high-efficiency heating and air-conditioning system. Circulating antifreeze will carry heat down to the wells in the summer to cool the building and will bring heat up in the winter. In fact, Chilton House will be a 100% geothermal-heated building.

When completed in late 2009, Chilton House will be "greener" in five key areas: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. These changes will help the environment while creating quiet, comfortable, and attractive surroundings that are more economical to operate and maintain.

Your Gift Supports Care for Terminally Ill Patients

Donors are making these and other extensive renovations possible so terminally ill patients and their loved ones can receive compassionate care in a place that feels like home.

So far, the Campaign for Chilton House has received over $1 million from individuals, local businesses, and foundations. The nonprofit is just $54,000 away from obtaining a $500,000 matching grant; then $200,000 will be needed to meet the overall campaign goal of $1.8 million.

You can help terminally ill patients and their families today and in the future by making a charitable gift to the Campaign for Chilton House. Donations may be made:

Naming opportunities are also available. For more information, contact Jane Woodbury, vice president of business and fund development, at 617-547-2620, ext. 1360; 888-663-3688, ext. 1360; or jwoodbury@vnacarenetwork.org.

Learn More About "Green" Home Design

Representatives from VNA Care Network & Hospice, Chan Mock Architects, and S+H Construction will talk about their approach to transforming Chilton House into an environmentally friendly residence during the Chilton House Celebration and Cocktail Reception on Thursday, Nov. 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, 113 Brattle St., Cambridge.

The evening will be hosted by the Hospice of Cambridge Development Committee. You can help support Chilton House by sponsoring the celebration. Tickets will be limited but can be guaranteed by becoming a sponsor. Sponsorships are available at the Angel level for $1,500 (includes four tickets to the event), Benefactor at $1,000 (includes three tickets), Friend at $750 (includes two tickets), or Sponsor at $250 (includes one ticket).

For reservations or more information, contact Jodi Vigneron, development associate, at 617-547-2620, ext. 1363 or jvigneron@vnacarenetwork.org.


Posted: July 22, 2009

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