Columbus builder leads effort to renovate struggling shelters
By Ken Gordon • July 6, 2020
Jim Phieffer and a team from GiGi’s, a local nonprofit devoted to helping shelter dogs get adopted, have put hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars into fixing up under-funded facilities in rural Ohio.
A year ago, the Lawrence County Animal Shelter housed its dogs in rows of chain-link cages, with a gutter serving as an open sewer running behind them.
It was dingy, poorly lit and lacked air conditioning, which made summers unbearable at the shelter, which is located in the muggy Ohio River town of Ironton.
“I remember in July, I was cleaning kennels, and it looked like I had taken a shower, it was so hot back there,” shelter director Denise Paulus said. “So imagine how the dogs felt.”
And then, in September, Jim Phieffer came to town — actually, Phieffer and a team of employees and volunteers associated with GiGi’s, a nonprofit organization that helps shelter dogs.
The Canal Winchester group, which was founded in 2018, takes in dogs from counties with low adoption rates, gives them exams and vaccinations, then sends them to shelters with higher adoption rates.
Phieffer is the president of the board at GiGi’s and also the CEO of Columbus building company Trinity Homes.
As a dog lover and a builder, it did not take him long working with underfunded shelters in rural Ohio to see the need for renovations.
The group’s first project was the Jackson County Dog Pound in southern Ohio early in 2019, a roughly $40,000 renovation.
Then they came to Ironton. A few weeks and about $90,000 later, Paulus and her employees were enjoying the well-lit rooms, with all-new kennels, each with individual drains and underground pipes.
And, of course, air conditioning.
“We looked like a 1980s dog pound, and they brought us into the 21st century,” said Paulus, who was effusive in her praise of Phieffer. “The man is amazing. What he did for us was over and beyond.”
For his efforts, Phieffer was named in May by the Petco Foundation and dog trainer and television-show host Victoria Stilwell as one of five Unsung Heroes finalists nationwide and awarded a $10,000 grant to help GiGi’s continue its work. (The winner took home an additional $50,000 grant).
Phieffer, 50, lives in Blacklick with his wife, Laura, two children and three rescue dogs.
“I’ve always liked dogs, and I’ve always liked the underdogs,” he said. “I feel for people and dogs who need some extra help. And I love helping.”
He had thought that when he retired he would help shelters in some way. So a few years ago, when Trinity Homes founder George Skestos — another dog lover — came to Phieffer and asked for ideas on how he could leave a legacy behind, the two brainstormed the idea that became GiGi’s (with input from Columbus Humane and experts at Ohio State University).
GiGi’s works with 15 shelters around Ohio, and most are underfunded and struggling, Phieffer said.
“You cannot believe the shape some of them are in,” he said. “So we decided to invest some of our time and energy to make these facilities healthier for the dogs.”
Though the Jackson County renovation was not as expensive as Lawrence County , the impact it made was equally significant. County Dog Warden Deb Fout ticked off a long list of renovations — electrical, plumbing, resurfacing and lighting — and finally paused.
“Lord, they did so much, I’m trying to remember it all,” she said. “Our pound was in dire need of repairs, and they came in and made improvements that we didn’t even dream of. We didn’t dream as high as they took us.”
Fout also noted Phieffer’s humility.
“Never would I think that somebody of his stature would be so humble,” she said. “He can do anything in the world with his life, and he chooses to help the little guy.”
Phieffer said he likes “leading from the front, and getting my hands on things.”
But mostly, he deflects praise and is quick to point out that the projects could not have been completed without volunteers and, in the case of the Lawrence County shelter, local fundraising. County residents pitched in about half of the $90,000 price tag, he said, and helped in other ways, as well.
“The people down there, a lot of them are struggling, but they really care,” Phieffer said. “People would come by and give us donuts, or $10, or ask if they could help paint or scoop gravel.”
GiGi’s acting CEO, Justin McKinniss, said Phieffer is quiet and intense, and it wasn’t until they shared long car rides to and from Ironton last year that he learned more about what motivates Phieffer.
“Making things, and making things happen, that’s what drives Jim,” McKinniss said. “His drug is productivity.”
A third renovation was planned at the Ross County Humane Society this year, but that has been postponed until the coronavirus threat subsides. Phieffer is hopeful of starting that project in August.
Despite the delay, Phieffer plans on plenty more opportunities to get his hands dirty alongside others in order to create a better experience for shelter dogs. That’s the way it’s always been for him.
“He had his nose to the grindstone, he worked hard,” said Paulus, the Lawrence County shelter director. “They would come down at 7 a.m. and work to 10 p.m. and then drive back to Columbus. And at the end, he was smiling.
“I don’t know how he did it. He was like our Superman.”
Buying a new home comes with a lot of decisions to be made. Where do you want to be? How do you want to live? Are schools important, or will they be in the future? Do you want to be close to work, or maybe prefer suburban living? Trinity Homes offers locations throughout Central Ohio , including some in the best school districts in the region, and even the state. Since the location of your home impacts everything from your daily routine to your home’s future resale value, there are a number of factors to consider when choosing the perfect location. Whatever you are looking for, Trinity Homes can help you find your home. Proximity to Work and Daily Commutes How far is the drive to work, school, or your favorite coffee shop? A long commute doesn’t just eat up your time, it adds unnecessary stress to your life. When looking at new homes, making it a priority to check how close it is to your routine stops ensures you spend less time in traffic, and more time enjoying your home and neighborhood. Quality Schools Families with school-age children tend to consider a quality school district over anything else. Many families are willing to sacrifice highly regarded things such as square footage, garages and amenities in favor of finding a home in a high-quality school district. While homes in great school districts are usually more expensive, parents are inclined to spend more money for their kids to receive a highly rated education Neighborhood Amenities and Lifestyle Do you care if your neighborhood comes with a clubhouse or a pool? What about parks and walking trails? Great neighborhoods offer easy access to these things, as well as restaurants, grocery stores, fitness centers, and entertainment options. At Trinity Homes, we build homes in communities all over the greater Columbus area that include or are just minutes away from all sorts of amenities that meet your needs. Safety and Crime Rates A safe neighborhood plays a big role in long-term property value and, more importantly, in your peace of mind. Take the time to research local crime statistics through online databases or community forums to get a sense of the area’s safety. Additionally, talking to residents and visiting at different times of the day can provide valuable insight into the community’s security and overall atmosphere. Future Development A neighborhood’s growth can have a large impact on a home’s future values. New developments, road expansions, and commercial projects often boost property values, while industrial projects or overdevelopment can lead to increased noise and congestion. Checking city planning resources can give you a clearer picture of what’s ahead and how it might affect the area. Choosing the right location is just as important as selecting the perfect home, and by considering these key factors, you can make a well-informed decision and invest in a home you’ll love for years to come. Explore everything Trinity Homes communities have to offer—from top-rated school districts to exceptional amenities—by visiting our website or reaching out to us today !
If you can’t keep up with the ever-changing trends in home design, you are certainly not alone. Fortunately, our Design Center team can help you cut through the chaos and focus on what’s both stylish and timeless for your home. From warmer palettes to textured ceilings, here’s what home buyers should consider when building their dream space: English-Inspired Kitchens White kitchens will always be timeless, but we’re going to see less of them in 2025. Homeowners are moving away from all white walls and cabinets in favor of richer, more rustic finishes that channel an English country style. If you want to get on board, consider incorporating elements into your kitchen that add coziness and character - think wood cabinets, limestone backsplashes, and vintage-inspired hardware and light fixtures. Warmer, more saturated paint colors can help pull the space together, creating an inviting, charming atmosphere. Terracotta Tile Warm, earthy tones are in, with homeowners leaning into the rich palette of colors that terracotta tiles offer. Whether used as flooring, a kitchen backsplash, or to accent a shower, terracotta can add depth, texture, and a timeless appeal to any space. Plus, its durability makes it a practical choice for years to come. Statement Lighting Statement lighting is nothing new, but in 2025, we’ll see homeowners get more creative with it. While bold chandeliers and pendants are still top picks for adding personality to a room, statement floor lamps, sconces, and table lamps are also having their moment. Stained glass, ceramic, or colorfully decorated lighting is leading the way, turning lighting into “functional art” that elevates a space and draws attention. Silver Accents Bronze and gold have been the go-to finishes among homeowners for years, but silver is making a comeback. Consider using polished chrome and brushed nickel in areas like your kitchens and bathrooms, as well as choosing silver-toned light fixtures for a more refined, contemporary look. But don’t feel the need to completely part ways with your bronze and gold accents - mixing metals is still very much on trend. When done thoughtfully, blending metals together can create more dimension and visual interest in a room, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds. Textured Ceilings Bye-bye, plain ceilings! 2025 is all about treating ceilings as the ‘fifth wall,’ with homeowners embracing bold design choices to add depth and character overhead. From wood paneling and decorative beams to intricate molding and tiles, textured ceilings can create a beautiful focal point that enhances the entire space. But you don't have to go all out – simple wainscoting, wallpaper, or even plaster finishes can make a statement and add to the personality of any room. Customization Options with Trinity Homes At Trinity Homes, we make it easy to customize your home to fit your style and personality. From flooring and cabinets to backsplashes and beyond, our design center offers extensive selections for finishes inside and outside the home, ensuring you can create a space that truly feels like yours. Contact Us
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When building a new home, you are likely to select features and customizations based on your current needs as well as your future goals. These choices, however, can also have a big impact on the future resale of your home. Whether you plan to stay for five years or fifteen, it’s worth considering what types of features will stand out to buyers down the road and make your home more attractive when it’s ultimately time to sell. At Trinity Homes , we offer a range of floor plans , finishes, and features to customize your home to ensure it fits your lifestyle while also protecting your investment for the future. Here are some customizations to consider when designing your Trinity Home: 1. Functional Spaces If there’s one thing we know about homes, it’s that you can never have too much functional space . Mudrooms, for example, are a buyer favorite – and that's unlikely to change. These spaces add practical, organized storage right where it’s needed most—near entryways – offering space for shoes, coats, and gear, keeping the rest of the home clutter-free and clean. And with remote work being the new norm, designating space for a home office is an easy way to add long-term value to your home. Thoughtful design, like built-in storage and good lighting, makes these areas even more appealing. 2. Timeless Kitchens As one of the most used spaces in a home, a kitchen holds a lot of power in defining its overall appeal and functionality. When designing your kitchen with Trinity Homes, consider including popular features and additions such as: Oversized Kitchen Islands – Islands, in general, are a great way to blend more style and functionality into the kitchen area, but oversized islands are even more sought-after. They provide even more storage, seating, and workspace for those who love to host or need extra space in the kitchen. Walk-In Pantries – Storage is big among homebuyers, and a walk-in pantry adds just that to your kitchen area. Shaker-Style Cabinets – We don’t see the clean, minimalist design of shaker-style cabinets going out of style anytime soon. Their sleek look pairs great with a variety of design types too, so whether you’re after a more modern, traditional, or contemporary look, shaker-style are the perfect cabinet type to tie everything together. 3. Hardwood Flooring: Hardwood floors will always be a good investment towards your home’s resale value. Between their timeless look, durability, and easy maintenance, it’s a no-brainer why homeowners love them. Plus, they add a sense of warmth and elegance to any space while being versatile enough to match various design styles. 4. Tried-and-True Finishes While some interior finishes ebb and flow in popularity, there’s a lot that stand the test of time. For example, you can’t go wrong with subway tile, quartz and granite countertops, or chrome and silver metal finishes. However, some finishes are easier to replace than others in the long run, so select what best fits your taste. At Trinity, our design center features a wide variety of patterns, colors, and styles so that you customize your home to fit your unique personality. 5. Fireplaces Fireplaces are a staple selling point that add warmth, ambiance, and coziness to any atmosphere, with gas fireplaces being particularly popular for their ease of use. Whether in the living room, master bedroom, or outdoors, fireplaces create a focal point that enhances both the aesthetic and functionality of a space. At Trinity Homes, we’re here to help you design a home that meets your current needs, works for your future goals, and doesn’t feel dated when it comes time to sell. Contact us to get started on your dream home!
At Trinity Homes , we’re committed to combining your vision with our expertise and dedication to quality in every new home we build. We’re here to provide you with the information and resources you need every step of the way—from choosing the perfect community to designing a semi-custom home that suits your style and your life, beautifully. Here are a few of our most popular articles from this year!
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When you’re building a semi-custom home, possibilities abound. Beyond bedrooms and bathrooms, custom spaces allow you to introduce features to your home that reflect your lifestyle, hobbies, and needs. Whether it’s for entertaining, relaxing, or keeping life organized, these tailored spaces can truly elevate your home, enhancing both everyday living and special moments. Here are a few ideas to inspire your design:
Maximizing the value of your Trinity Home means planning for a space that grows with you. By incorporating aging-in-place features, you can ensure your home stays safe, comfortable, and accessible as your needs evolve. Here are some thoughtful customizations to consider: Accessible Entrances and Pathways Creating accessible entrances and pathways can make a big difference for aging in place. Zero-step entries at the front and back doors allow easy access without the need to navigate stairs, while wide doorways and hallways provide ample space for walkers or wheelchairs, making movement throughout the home easier. Adding slip-resistant surfaces to indoor and outdoor flooring can also help reduce the risk of slips—especially in wet conditions—boosting both safety and peace of mind. Smart Home Technology Smart home technology can make life at home so much easier and safer as we age. With voice-activated controls, turning lights on, adjusting the thermostat, or even locking up is just a quick command away. For those living independently, home monitoring systems also offer extra peace of mind, keeping everything secure and connected. And smart appliances—like voice-activated ovens, easy-access fridges, and hands-free faucets—take the hassle out of daily routines, making things simpler and more manageable. Enhanced Lighting Enhanced lighting should also be a top priority to make your home more functional for aging in place. Think motion-sensor lights in hallways, bathrooms, and entryways to automatically illuminate key areas, making it easier to navigate safely, especially at night. Task lighting can also provide bright, focused light in spaces where detailed work happens, like the kitchen, bathroom, and reading areas. And by placing larger windows strategically, you can bring in plenty of natural light, keeping the home bright and welcoming throughout the day. Bathroom Modifications Updating the bathroom with accessibility features can make it both safer and more comfortable, addressing the many hidden dangers common in this space. Curbless showers, for example, remove the need to step over a curb and pair well with seating, making bathing safer and more secure. Grab bars and rails near toilets, showers, and tubs provide extra support to help prevent falls, which are a common risk in the bathroom. Comfort-height toilets reduce strain when sitting and standing, while non-slip flooring lowers the risk of slips in this moisture-prone area. Together, these modifications transform the bathroom into a space that supports changing needs and minimizes hazards. Other Ideas for Aging in Place To make a home more accessible as you age, you may also want to consider adding... First-floor bedroom and bathroom : Having a primary suite on the first floor reduces the need to climb stairs, offering easier access to key areas. Adjustable closet rods and shelves : Makes clothing and accessories reachable without bending or stretching. Stair lifts and handrails : Lifts can provide accessibility to upper floors without needing to navigate stairs, while handrails on both sides can offer better support and balance while using the stairs. Outdoor Ramps: Outdoor ramps can make it easier to enter or exit the home safely, especially where there are stairs involved. Ultimately, the right customizations can help ensure a home feels comfortable, secure, and accommodating as your physical needs change, all while maintaining style and functionality. At Trinity Homes , we can work with you to customize your home in a way that fits your unique needs, enhancing both comfort and convenience as you move through different stages of life.
When building a home, there’s a lot to consider – layout, square footage, and style – but one detail that often gets overlooked is the direction your home faces. Orientation might sound like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in comfort, efficiency, and your overall living experience. Natural Light and Warmth Natural light can make a home feel more welcoming and even boost your mood – especially in the colder months – but it’s hard to mimic. That’s why it’s worth considering home orientation when building or purchasing a home, as this can impact how much natural light your home gets. South-facing homes, for example, get more consistent light throughout the day than north-facing homes. This can also affect how much warmth your home gets from sunlight, which brings us to our next point... Energy Efficiency The orientation of your home can also have a noticeable impact on your energy bills. As mentioned, window placement affects how much natural light—and warmth—your home receives, which can mean big savings on heating and cooling. For example... South-facing windows get plenty of sunlight in the winter, reducing heating needs. However, this extra light can also make summers warmer, potentially increasing cooling costs. East-facing windows bring in morning light to gently warm your home at the start of the day. By afternoon, these rooms stay cooler, helping lower cooling costs in the summer. West-facing windows receive intense afternoon and evening sun, especially in warmer months, which can create extra heat in the afternoon and increase cooling needs. Outdoor Living If you’re planning for an outdoor space, like a patio or garden, the right home orientation can also ensure these areas get the sun or shade you want. A south or west-facing backyard might be perfect if you want sun in the afternoon, while a shaded north-facing outdoor space can be comfier in warmer months. Cultural Beliefs Cultural beliefs and traditions may also play a role in determining the desired orientation of your home, as many traditions associate certain directions with harmony, prosperity, and health. In Feng Shui , a Chinese tradition, a home’s orientation affects the flow of “chi” or life energy throughout the home. Room placements are carefully considered to foster balanced energy within the house. Generally speaking, south-facing homes are preferred for warmth and positive energy. In Vastu Shastra , an Indian tradition, each direction is associated with specific elements, influencing room placement. Some practitioners consider Northeast-facing homes to be the most favorable, associating this direction with wealth. Islamic architectural practices often consider orientation in relation to religious practices. Many Islamic homes are designed with consideration of the Qibla, the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca. This orientation ensures that there is a clear area for prayer facing the Qibla. Whether it’s maximizing natural light, cutting down on energy costs, or embracing cultural traditions, a home’s orientation has the power to elevate your living experience in ways you may not have expected. At Trinity Homes , we build homes in many of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Central Ohio , providing you with the home orientation options you need. Contact a New Home Consultant today to learn more.
When building or buying a home in a community with a Homeowners' Association (HOA), it’s easy to get confused about who handles what. While it might seem straightforward at first glance, there are some gray areas where responsibilities overlap, and that’s where most homeowners get stuck. Here are some key questions you might have when navigating the responsibilities of a builder versus an HOA: 1. Who handles landscaping and outdoor features during construction? When your home is being built, a builder like Trinity Homes will typically handle things like grading, installing your driveway, and even initial landscaping around the home. However, many HOAs have strict rules about what types of plants or landscaping features you can have—so while the builder installs the basics, you might need to get HOA approval before making changes like adding a fence, deck, or patio. Tip : Before making any big outdoor decisions, check with the HOA’s design guidelines to avoid costly rework. 2. What about maintaining common areas or roads during construction? If you’re moving into a new development, you may wonder who’s responsible for maintaining roads, sidewalks, and common areas before the neighborhood is fully built out. In most cases, this is your builder’s responsibility until the HOA officially takes over once a certain number of homes are completed. The transition can be tricky though, so be sure to ask when the HOA will step in. 3. Who enforces neighborhood rules during construction? Your builder is responsible for following local building codes and adhering to any rules set by the HOA during construction. But once you’ve moved in, the HOA becomes the key enforcer of rules like where to park, what colors you can paint your house, and any changes you want to make to your property. If your builder didn’t follow a certain guideline, the HOA may ask you to correct it—potentially leading to delays. Example : If your builder installs a mailbox that doesn’t meet HOA standards, you could be on the hook for replacing it. 4. Who deals with drainage and flood concerns? One of the biggest headaches for homeowners is drainage and water management. At Trinity, we make sure your lot is properly graded, and that water flows away from your home. However, HOAs may have broader responsibilities for your neighborhood’s overall drainage system, especially if there are shared detention ponds or common drainage areas. If you notice water pooling in your yard or in common areas, you might wonder who to call—builder or HOA? A good rule of thumb: If the issue is on your lot and construction is recent, call your builder. If it’s in a common area or affects multiple homes, the HOA might be your best bet. 5. What if something goes wrong after I move in? At Trinity, we provide a warranty on the home’s structure and major systems (like plumbing and electrical) for a set period after construction. If you have issues like a roof leak or a faulty water heater, that’s on us—at least until the warranty expires. On the flip side, the HOA manages ongoing maintenance for common areas like pools, sidewalks, and community centers. Pro Tip : Keep a close eye on your warranty deadlines. Know what’s covered and for how long, so you’re not stuck footing the bill for builder-related repairs after coverage ends. Bottom Line: While your builder and HOA should certainly work together to create a livable community, their roles diverge once the home is finished. If you're ever unsure about who handles a particular issue, start by reviewing your HOA’s rules and your builder’s contract—and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Getting clarity upfront will save you time, money, and frustration later.
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