Pool Remodeling Company Finds Unique Way To Help Kids

It is not unusual for companies to give back to their community in the form of financial donations. In the case of Jeff Kerber Pool Plastering, Inc. of Montclair, the form of “donation” is a little unusual.

It is not unusual for companies to give back to their community in the form of financial donations. In the case of Jeff Kerber Pool Plastering, Inc. of Montclair, the form of “donation” is a little unusual.

Instead of donating money, they are giving hand-made blankets, provided by Kerber employees, for children in hospitals, shelters or anywhere else where these blankets will bring comfort.

While watching a TV segment spotlighting a charitable organization called Binky Patrol (binkypatrol.org) that distributes blankets to children, Mark Feldstein, COO/CFO of Jeff Kerber Pool Plastering, realized that this was something the company could possibly do. He asked his staff if any of them were interested in crocheting blankets for Binky Patrol and the kids – and there was an enthusiastic response.

“I’ve never crocheted before,” explained Lydia Morales in the Service Department,“ but I figured that I could learn if it meant helping children. I just need a good teacher.”

As it happened, Feldstein turned out to be that teacher. An old hand at crocheting, Feldstein crocheted for seven years while commuting on the Metrolink trains to and from downtown when he worked at a former position. “I was challenged by one of the ladies on the train who was crocheting. I didn’t mind that crocheting is typically a feminine hobby – it was a great way to spend the time on the train and be productive. Feldstein eventually went on to teach crocheting at Citrus Community College.

Owner Jeff Kerber joined the charitable effort, not by crocheting but by having the company pay for all supplies. Since then, Feldstein has also brought into the group the entire staff of Q Nails and Spa of La Verne and is always on the look-out for more volunteers. Caron Industries, Plymouth Yarns and Halcyon Yarns have also joined the effort by donating yarn. # # #