Renewal by Andersen Esler Companies has partnered with actor Patrick Dempsey’s nonprofit, the Dempsey Center in Maine, to generously donate and carry out a transformative window and door renovation at Clayton’s House - creating a more comforting and supportive environment for cancer patients and their loved ones.
Esler Companies, the largest affiliate group of Renewal by Andersen locally owned and operated in Maine and Southern New Hampshire, led the renovation October 17–18 at Clayton’s House — the Dempsey Center’s hospitality home in Portland that provides free lodging to clients traveling long distances for care. The nonprofit was founded by actor and Maine native Patrick Dempsey to provide free cancer support services to patients and families.
The company donated and installed 22 new energy-efficient Renewal by Andersen windows and 2 doors, including all labor and materials, to replace aging units and improve comfort, energy efficiency, and natural light. The work was completed by a volunteer team of 35 Renewal by Andersen employees.
Transforming a Space That Transforms Lives
Clayton’s House provides a home-like refuge for clients accessing the Dempsey Center’s no-cost services — including counseling, nutrition, movement, and integrative therapies. By eliminating hotel and travel expenses, it removes major financial barriers for families already facing cancer.
The renovation focused on installing fully custom, energy-efficient Renewal by Andersen Fibrex windows and doors to increase natural light and reduce heating loss in Maine’s colder months. These improvements will help lower operating costs and provide a warmer, more peaceful environment for guests.
Supporting Patrick Dempsey’s Mission of Compassion
Founded by actor and philanthropist Patrick Dempsey in honor of his late mother, Amanda, the Dempsey Center has become a lifeline for thousands of families impacted by cancer. What began as a local initiative in Lewiston, Maine has grown into a nationally respected model of whole-person cancer support — offering emotional, physical, and practical care at no cost.
With locations in Lewiston and South Portland, as well as nationwide virtual programs, the Center ensures no one has to face cancer alone — regardless of geography or financial means.
“The Dempsey Center was founded when Patrick was watching his mother navigate her cancer journey, and he saw firsthand how much compassionate support matters,” said Heather Plati of the Dempsey Center. “Every program we offer is funded through generosity—every dollar raised directly supports services for our clients. That’s why this renovation from Esler Companies and Renewal by Andersen means so much to us. Maintaining Clayton’s House is essential to our mission, and this kind of pro bono support is truly extraordinary.”
Plati emphasized that the partnership went far beyond materials and labor.
“I can’t fully describe what this project means to us—it fills my heart,” she said. “Esler Companies didn’t just offer funding; they showed up for Maine families. Their volunteers gave their time, energy, and skill—even on a Saturday—because they genuinely care about this community. This partnership is a powerful reminder of what can happen when businesses step forward to support their neighbors. We are forever grateful.”
A Partnership Based on Purpose
The collaboration between Renewal by Andersen and the Dempsey Center grew from a shared belief that strong communities are built through compassion and action.
“This project started the way most good things do—through human connection,” said Collin Burg, General Manager of Renewal by Andersen, who led the project. “Once we got to know the team here and saw the work they do every day for families facing cancer, we knew we wanted to help. It was an honor to put our skills to use in a way that truly makes a difference.”
Burg noted that the effort aligned seamlessly with Renewal by Andersen Esler Companies’ values.
“At Esler and Renewal by Andersen, giving back isn’t a slogan—it’s part of who we are,” he said. “Through our Renewal Cares initiatives, every window we install helps fund community projects like this one. Our philosophy here in Maine is simple: when you combine skills, resources, and the right community partner, the impact goes far beyond the dollars invested. We’re incredibly grateful for this opportunity to serve, to stand alongside the Dempsey Center, and to support our Maine community.”
The renovation is part of Renewal Cares, a philanthropic program that empowers employees to give back through hands-on volunteer work, charitable giving, and partnerships that strengthen local communities.
Improving Care Through Environment
The Dempsey Center believes that healing extends beyond treatment — it begins in the environment where people feel safe and supported. Studies show that calm, comfortable surroundings can greatly improve emotional well-being during the cancer journey.
“This experience has felt surreal in the best way,” said Jenn Sternberg of the Dempsey Center. “Today it really struck me just how much care exists in this community, and how meaningful this gift from Renewal by Andersen truly is.
Sternberg added, “It’s an incredible honor to be the recipient of this project. These new windows will keep our clients warm and dry, block out noise, and give them a quiet, comfortable place to rest and heal while staying here. The generosity behind this effort is overwhelming—the crew was amazing, efficient, and incredibly professional. This has been a remarkable act of kindness that will have a lasting impact.”
By improving the comfort and sustainability of Clayton’s House, this renovation ensures the Dempsey Center can continue delivering care that reflects dignity, safety, and hope.
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About Esler Companies
The Esler Companies is the holding company for Renewal by Andersen of Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Oklahoma, North Texas, Central Texas, Greater Philadelphia, Southern New England and Portland, Maine, with sales and marketing engines in Northborough, Massachusetts & Austin, Texas.
Renewal by Andersen is the full-service window-replacement division of Andersen Corporation, the owner of the most trusted family of window brands in America. Renewal by Andersen was founded with a mission to redefine the industry and to offer a different—and better—window-replacement experience. Renewal by Andersen has 12 company-owned locations, and nearly 100 independently owned “affiliates” across the United States.
About the Dempsey Center
Founded by Patrick Dempsey and his family, the Dempsey Center makes life better for people impacted by cancer by providing personalized support services at no cost. With locations in Lewiston and South Portland, Maine — and nationwide virtual services — the organization offers counseling, nutrition, integrative therapies, movement classes, and family support.
Learn more at https://www.dempseycenter.org.
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