Aging in Place with Dignity: RTNNV Featured in NYT's Wirecutter
We are proud to share that our client, Dick Stoddard, and the work of Rebuilding Together Northern Nevada were recently featured in a major New York Times / Wirecutter article about seniors planning to age at home.
By Dan Koeppel | Photographs by Karen Asher, Allison Ramirez & Fred Ramos
Read the full article here: “Five People in Their 60s, 70s, and 80s Share How They Plan to Age at Home”
What does it take to remain in your home as you grow older? While financial planning is crucial, the New York Times’ Wirecutter team recently explored a deeper truth: community, connection, and a safe, accessible home are just as vital. In a compelling feature published February 20, 2026, writer Dan Koeppel interviewed five older adults across North America about their aging-in-place journeys—and we were honored to see our very own client, Dick Stoddard, and the work of Rebuilding Together Northern Nevada (RTNNV) highlighted as a powerful example of how home modifications can restore independence.
A Local Voice: Dick Stoddard’s Story
Dick Stoddard was a familiar face in Reno for over 30 years as the weatherman for KOLO. After retiring in 2020 due to Parkinson’s disease, he found himself financially stable but deeply isolated. “Every day is the same as the last day,” he shared with Wirecutter. He missed connection. He missed purpose. And as his mobility declined, even leaving the house became a challenge.
But Dick’s turning point came when he saw a TV news report about Rebuilding Together Northern Nevada. He reached out, and we were able to step in with critical modifications: a new ramp leading to his carport and a walk-in shower. These changes weren’t just about convenience—they gave Dick back a sense of control.
“The restoration of some basic abilities — getting in and out of his home and bathing — made Stoddard feel like he’d regained some control over his life,” the article notes. Dick now wears a fall-detection pendant (a step he initially resisted) and works daily with his caregiver, Susan Shelton. He’s determined to stay home—and with the right support, he’s doing just that.
The Wirecutter feature also profiled other inspiring individuals: Beverly Suek, who created a women’s cooperative housing community in Canada; Kevin Brown, who moved to Mexico for affordability; Doreen Goodlin of New Mexico, who rebuilt connection after an online scam; and Hattie and Cookie McKinney in North Carolina, whose home was transformed by Rebuilding Together Charlotte. It’s a powerful reminder that aging in place looks different for everyone—but safe, accessible housing is a common thread.
Why This Feature Matters for Northern Nevada
At Rebuilding Together Northern Nevada, we believe that everyone deserves to live in a safe and healthy home—regardless of age or income. Dick’s story, now shared with a national audience, underscores the life-changing impact of home repairs and modifications. From building ramps to installing walk-in showers, our volunteers (including our partners at The Home Depot) are on the front lines ensuring that local veterans, seniors, and families can age in place with dignity.
Want to help a neighbor age in place?
Whether you’re a volunteer, donor, or someone in need of assistance, Rebuilding Together Northern Nevada is here. Visit our website to learn more about our programs or to request help.
As the Wirecutter article concludes: “The most successful older adults were those who found community, discovered ways to reach out and stay engaged, and knew when to ask for and accept help.” At RTNNV, we’re proud to be part of that community for our Northern Nevada neighbors.
— Rebuilding Together Northern Nevada, February 2026 —