Maryland-based rehab center Brooke’s House received a $150K donation from Manitowoc and partners to help expand its mental health services. Manitowoc employs several Brooke’s House graduates at its Shady Grove, Pennsylvania, factory.
Brooke’s House, a rehabilitation center dedicated to helping women in recovery, has received a $100,000 donation from Manitowoc and $50,000 from its dealers and customers. The partnership has proven mutually beneficial, with Manitowoc employing nearly 20 graduates from Brooke’s House who have gained valuable occupational skills and job training while recovering from substance abuse.
During Crane Days, an event dedicated to dealers and customers held in May at the company’s facilities in Shady Grove, Pennsylvania, Manitowoc CEO Aaron Ravenscroft introduced Brooke’s House to attendees. Over 1,000 people representing 18 countries, including Manitowoc employees, customers, and dealers, learned about the impactful relationship between the two organizations.
Dave Hull, Manitowoc's general manager for mobile cranes in North America, shared the story behind the partnership and praised the efforts of Kevin and Dana Simmers, founders of Brooke’s House. Hull expressed his admiration for the initiative, the commitment of Manitowoc’s executive team to support such a meaningful cause, and funding from the Manitowoc Foundation.
“I’ve known Kevin Simmers for 35 years and understand the journey he and Dana have been on. I’m incredibly proud of my company for supporting Brooke’s House. Every person on the stage here has visited Brooke’s House, met the women, and witnessed the real impact of our support. This is not just a partnership, it’s a commitment to building something real and meaningful,” Hull said.
“Manitowoc gives Brooke’s House graduates the chance to join its workforce and build a new life.”
– Kevin Simmers, Founder/Director, Brooke’s House
Kevin Simmers also spoke at the event, discussing Brooke’s House’s origin and future goals, including expanding mental health services by building a $1.5 million equine therapy facility. He emphasized the importance of community and industry support in making a difference.
“We’re extremely grateful. Manitowoc gives Brooke’s House graduates the chance to join its workforce and build a new life. The support we’ve received from Manitowoc and its community truly exemplifies what makes this country great. Thank you all very much,” Simmers said.
To further support Brooke’s House, Manitowoc has pledged to match donations from customers and dealers, up to $100,000. As of May 22, an additional $50,000 has been raised through these generous contributions.
The partnership between Manitowoc and Brooke’s House dates back to 2020. In 2023, a small ceremony marked the designation of a restored bungalow in Hagerstown, where some of Brooke’s House graduates live, as “The Manitowoc House.”
Manitowoc would like to extend its gratitude to the dealers and customers who have donated to support Brook’s House.
