A dozen Central Iowa businesses, including The Weitz Co. and SVPA Architects Inc., are donating labor and materials to remodel the entryway at the headquarters of Link Associates, a non-profit organization that provides assistance to people with mental disabilities.

The project is expected to take 10 weeks and will result in a wider, safer entrance ramp outside, automatic doors and improved access to the reception area inside. “We serve over 800 people with special needs, and the building is not readily accessible,” said Executive Director Linda Streit. “And, aesthetically, it certainly needs a face lift.”

Link Associates has occupied the building at 4301 N.E. 14th St. for 15 years. “It has plenty of space, which is wonderful,” Streit said, “but it has a lot of needs.”

One solid connection with the local construction community is provided by Mike Tousley, president of Weitz Iowa and a member and past president of the Link Associates board of directors. Weitz is acting as the general contractor for the project, and Tousley coordinated project bids from 12 subcontractors. Those companies are donating all or part of their services, with a total estimated value of $20,000.

Link Associates must raise an additional $250,000 to cover the costs. “One hundred percent of our board members have pledged to contribute,” Streit said. “We also have identified a number of local foundations and companies that we will approach. We want to be able to wrap up the pledges in six months, and we would be able to accept the contributions over a two-year period.”

Holmes Murphy & Associates Inc. and Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino have already made substantial donations.

“This is only the second time we have gone to the public,” said Streit, who has been with Link Associates for 11 years. “We bought 10 buses through a fund-raising campaign two years ago.”

Other companies helping with the current project include Stetson Building Products Inc., Concrete Supply of Iowa L.L.C., Forrest & Associates Inc., RW Metals L.L.C., Northwest Steel Erection Co., Williams Millwork Co., Academy Roofing & Sheet Metal Co., Doors Inc., Howe Painting, The Baker Group, Baker Electrical Inc. and Bob Lenc Landscaping Inc. and Lawn Care.