Tarkett Transforms Niles Township Respite Center, Enhancing Community Well-being

Tarkett Transforms Niles Township Respite Center

Tarkett, a globally recognized leader in innovative and sustainable flooring solutions, has taken significant steps in support of community well-being through its Tarkett Cares program. The company recently led a renovation of the Niles Township Respite Center located in Skokie, Illinois, an initiative driven by its commitment to social equity and support for local communities.

With a focus on promoting a sense of peace and comfort, Tarkett revamped the respite center’s flooring, ensuring it utilized third-party certified products that emphasize healthy materials and better indoor air quality. In renovation discussions, Roxane Spears, Tarkett’s vice president of sustainability, expressed the desire to make a meaningful contribution rather than just a temporary giveaway. The aim was to create lasting value and impact for the community.

Meaningful Impact in the Community

The Niles Township Respite Center plays a crucial role in assisting residents who experience housing and food insecurity by providing essential services such as access to showers, laundry facilities, and a food pantry. Recognizing the important work carried out by the center, Tarkett’s initiative aligns perfectly with its mission of fostering supportive environments for community members.

In collaboration with local contractor FloorsMD, Tarkett opted for its ethos® carpet tile and Contour LVT flooring, both of which are designed to contribute positively to the environment. Installing these products in spaces such as the quiet room and multi-purpose room not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the center but also created safer and cleaner areas for individuals to seek assistance during challenging times.

Sustainability at the Core

Tarkett’s commitment to sustainability is further exemplified through its ReStart® take-back and recycling program, aimed at minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency. The newly installed flooring materials demonstrate not only an aesthetic update but also reflect Tarkett’s ethos of circular design.

Moreover, the renovation project went beyond mere flooring updates. Inspired by the transformation’s potential, FloorsMD’s president, Michelle DeLuco, expanded the project to include structural improvements, like room expansions and ceiling adjustments. With the collective effort of multiple companies, including ECI and the Executive Construction Foundation, the center's renovation was completed without imposing any costs on the Respite Center.

Creating a Welcoming Environment

Ruth Orme-Johnson, a social worker at the Respite Center, remarked on the significant impact of the renovations. She highlighted the transformation of the space into a calming and welcoming environment, essential for their clients facing hardships. The updates have not only uplifted the center's aesthetic but also instilled pride among the staff, encouraging clients to recognize their potential in overcoming challenges.

Mike Isaacs, a public relations outreach coordinator for the Niles Township Government, praised the renovation for exceeding expectations, calling it an inspiring effort that has left a lasting impression on the community.

Tarkett's Broader Commitment

Beyond corporate donations, Tarkett Cares empowers its employees to take part in community service by offering paid volunteer days annually. Since 2017, Tarkett employees have logged thousands of volunteer hours, contributing to over 900 community initiatives.

With a profound legacy of over 140 years, Tarkett continues to push the boundaries of sustainable solutions in the flooring industry. Its ongoing commitment to improving indoor spaces while protecting our environment underscores the company's ethos and corporate responsibility.

For those wishing to see the impact of the renovation firsthand, Tarkett invites you to take a virtual tour of the newly transformed Niles Township Respite Center, showcasing how thoughtful design and sustainable practices can positively affect community health and well-being.