Sarah Gomm
New Chapter Transitions Founder
My life’s passions, aka my Super Powers: Helping others organize, downsize, declutter, space design, interior decorate and repurpose, reuse and recycle.
Having found a career where I can utilize and share these passions with others is a dream come true.
In my free time I love gardening, reading organize and declutter books and an occasional mystery, and hunting for clothing and unusual items to resell. I am currently working on my SMM certification through the National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers (NASMM).
Born and raised in Portland, I live with my fabulous and handy husband and our four-legged entourage in SW Portland.
- B.A. in Communications from University of Oregon and Marylhurst University
- Certified Trained Organizer from the Institute of Professional Organizers
- NASMM Member
- Training Certifications for: NASMM’s FrontDoor, Cornerstone, and eSMMart programs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Senior and Specialty Move Management (SMM)?
The National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers (NASMM) was established in 2002, thus the concept of senior move management (SMM) is a relatively new industry. There are multifaceted factors contributing to the fast growth of this line of service, a large aspect being aging demographics. The U.S. Census Bureau projects that the number of people age 65 and over by 2030 will be nearly 90 million.
Another contributor to the increase in demand for SMM services is the changing work and living patterns of adult children. Adult children change jobs more often and simply aren’t geographically near their aging parents to step in and assist with the undertaking of the transition. Not to mention that adult children whose parents are 80-90+ yrs. old are themselves in their 60s and 70s and may not be physically able to help.
The physical and emotional challenges in later life transitions also play into the need for SMM. Moving is ranked as one of the top five most stressful life events (along with death of loved one, divorce, loss of job and birth of child). It is not uncommon for clients to fall ill during the weeks/months before a move.
Often adult children may be the caregivers and the project of downsizing and moving their elder parent(s) is overwhelming and frankly not feasible.
What makes New Chapter Transitions different from other move and transition managers?
If you didn’t have a chance to read about New Chapter Transitions’ values, please click here. We deeply care for our clients and understand the value and importance of “home”, and we are as passionate about the common home to everyone – earth. We will take that extra step, go that extra mile to repurpose, reuse and recycle as much as possible.
A little story: a client had a large electric organ that needed to be removed. Unfortunately, there is no market for used organs. After exhausting all options of re-homing the organ, we posted it on local sites, suggesting that someone use the interestingly titled keys e.g. “Vox Humana”, “Viola D’Amore” for art. A young artist disassembled the key panel component and created jewelry. That was a good size piece that didn’t go to the landfill. We are always looking for creative ways to recycle and repurpose.
Can we hire New Chapter Transitions to just help organize and/or declutter?
Absolutely. We can help you to set up your spaces so they fit your needs and/or reduce the volume of material items so you can better utilize and enjoy the areas of your home.
Why hire New Chapter Transitions?
Organizing, downsizing, space planning, moving! Even one of these big undertakings may make one break out in a rash. These decisions are often wrought with apprehension, anxiety, stress and emotion.
New Chapter Transitions, NCT, is there to help guide and make the process less stressful and much easier for all involved. Bringing in NCT as a third party can be a godsend—there isn’t any emotional attachment to items and we see the project with a non-biased eye and with a big picture perspective. We work alongside you stepping in to lighten the load, so to speak, and handle as much and as many of the details you would like help with.
What is the process? How does this all work?
The first step is conducting an hour consultation free of charge preferably at the home to assess and discuss your needs, wishes and your timeline. We then will provide you with an estimate and agreement. Once you have reviewed the estimate and signed the agreement we then book the project with you.
How do I get started?
We are so happy you asked! Let us provide you a one-hour complimentary consultation. Consultations are always best in person at the home, however, if that isn’t feasible, we are happy to chat via phone (503.432.9933) phone or a video conference call. Please reach out via phone, email or fill out our “Introduce Yourself” form on our website and we will get back to you soon to speak with you and set up the consultation.
What is New Chapter Transitions’ pricing structure?
The first step is to provide you with a free hour consultation at the home. Once we have viewed your home and the contents, assessed your needs and discussed your wishes, we will provide you with an estimate and timeline. Fees are based on an hourly rate; expenses will vary dependent on the services selected.
Who uses your services?
Empty nesters, baby boomers, realtors, adult children of elder parent(s), busy family members in/out of town, retirees, divorcees – anyone and everyone who could use help and guidance with organizing, decluttering, downsizing and/or moving.
Does New Chapter Transitions assist only older adults?
We are here to help anyone who is transitioning either to a smaller home, or just in need of decluttering and organizing, making your living space more accommodating.
New Chapter Transition Values
- We value collaboration with our clients. We are here to guide and assist you to make your transition simple and easy.
- We listen to and hear our clients.
- We are attentive to and respect our clients’ wants and wishes.
- We are compassionate and empathic – we understand that everyone approaches life transitions differently – with trepidation, excitement – all are valid in our book.
- Authenticity – no BS.
- We are broad-minded and do not judge.
- We never stop learning.
- We believe in and practice reduce, reuse, and recycle.
Testimonials
Sandy D.
New Chapter Transitions is fantastic! [Sarah is] …a joy with which to work. I learned a lot … I only wish I had known this over 50 years ago!
Bob D.
Created a clear vision of what the “end-product” would be and even provided decorating suggestions to create a wonderful result… Thank you, Sarah!
Vicky K.
New Chapter Transitions …consulting sessions [offered] kind …tough love with understanding. No judgement…[and helped us] reach our goals.