ABOUT US

We are two ladies who are 50 years of age and older. Each of us has personally experienced the trauma of sorting through years of acquisitions and traveling through decades of memories in the homes of our loved ones.  We understand how items that may appear trivial to others may be of value to us for sentimental reasons.

 

Liz first understood the need for customized assistance for older persons downsizing when she served as the Director of a county Area Agency on Aging. So many individuals were overwhelmed when facing all the things accumulated in life and didn't know how to begin to organize the chaos of sorting, purging and packing in preparation for a move. She experienced the countless hours of sorting through her parents' possessions and, with other family members, having to make the difficult decisions about what to keep, sell, or donate to a charity. Similarly, Ruthann had to sort through and dispose of her husband’s belongings due to his untimely death. During the process of cleaning out her husband's belongings, Ruthann gained the experience needed to understand how terribly difficult it can be to part with items that have so many memories and mean so much to you. We recognize how fortunate we were to be able to do this for our loved ones – and understand the physical demand and emotional stress involved. But what about those whose loved ones don’t live in the area? Those who may have conflicts with home life and work schedules?  Some who may not be physically or emotionally strong enough to manage the stress of a move?

Elizabeth Fry, President and founder of Beyond the Fork in the Road – Nationally recognized in the field of aging, Liz brings over 30 years of experience counseling and advocating for older adults in leadership positions at local, state and national levels. She served as a congressional delegate to two White House Conferences on Aging, testified on a variety of aging issues in Congress and was instrumental in passing legislation related to housing needs of the elderly. Raised in a remodeled school house with antiques and vintage items prominently displayed, Liz quickly recognizes items of value thanks to her parents' passion for antiques.

Ruthann Sherbine, Logistics Manager – Ruthann brings 30 years experience in supervision with 20 years focused on her family owned construction business. She has expertise in reading blueprints and creating floor plans. Her background lends to her understanding what to move based on space issues and the practical utilization of items. (No need for garden tools if there is no garden at the new location!) She has mobilized, trained and supervised work crews throughout the eastern United States. She is experienced with multiple disposition strategies to include sales, donations, and large household auctions.

Trustworthiness – It is our privilege to assist you in relocating to your new home. We earn the trust given to us by handling all property, relationships and details with integrity, honesty and trustworthiness.  

 

Respect – We recognize that items have a value to their owner and honor those feelings by handling all items with respect. We provide options for all of our services and, acknowledging that you are in control of the process, respectfully honor the choices you make. 

Sensitivity – We understand that moving can be a stressful time and we are sensitive to the emotional upheaval that you may experience. We will work beside you in a manner that is supportive, patient, and considerate.

 

Communication – Good communication is the key to any successful venture. By promoting open dialogue between ourselves and our customers, we are able to understand what is important to our customers and be responsive in a way that is in your best interest. 

Detail Oriented – Attention to detail is the keystone for all we do. Packing is item-specific and destination-specific. From handling change of address notifications to placing utensils in a drawer or making your bed, by contacting Beyond the Fork in the Road you can consider it done!

Environment Sensitive – Our natural resources are precious commodities. We do our best to recycle your items. This minimizes disposing of items that expand our landfills and foul our land or water. What cannot be gifted or sold will be donated to local non-profit thrift shops and organizations. These donations will be itemized to provide you with a charitable tax deduction.