Ben Uyeda is a designer, Northeastern University lecturer, and the entrepreneur behind HomeMade Modern. He’s built a career around smart, DIY design and has made giving back a priority along the way.
So it’s no surprise that when he joined forces with Team Depot, he fit right in.
Ben rolled up his sleeves with Team Depot volunteers in Lawrence, Mass., to help transform U.S. Army veteran Yahayra Michel’s home.
Michel served in the U. Army for 16 years, reaching the rank of Master Sargent, and completed multiple tours of duty in Kosovo. Now a single mother of three, Michel works and attends school full time.
The changes Team Depot volunteers, the New England Veterans Liberty House and Uyeda made to Michel’s home will ensure her home is safer, more energy efficient and beautiful for her family.
“I’m humbled and appreciative. I think what Team Depot is doing for our troops is amazing,” said Michel.
It was no surprise to Team Depot that Michel was insistent on rolling up her sleeves alongside the volunteers. The real surprise, however, was when Ben delivered a custom-built outdoor dining set designed specifically for Michel’s family.
Michel and her family were thrilled with the unexpected gift, which came complete with harvest décor just in time for Thanksgiving. See how the table came together here.
To cap off the day of surprises, Michel’s two daughters and son unveiled new United States of America and Army flags to flank her new entryway – the finishing touch to making the house feel more like home for this veteran family.
