Project Hope is gaining momentum almost daily, reported project visionary Rebekkah Harding.
One of the key positions, project manager, has been filled and Harding couldn’t be happier that Joe Hart of Icon Homes has graciously accepted the volunteer position.
Hart said he had discussed projects in general with Harding and told her when the time came for a specific project, he’d be interested.
“I didn’t know what role I’d play, but I was interested in participating,” he said.
Hart isn’t alone in supporting this project, more than 30 local businesses and individuals have pledged support for Project Hope that will see the Women’s Resource Centre refurbished over a 10-day period in June.
Windows replaced, new floors, painting inside and outside, fairly major landscaping and a few other plans are on the wish list, but Hart said they’ll stay flexible depending on how the budget goes.
“Ideally we’d love to do a private outdoor seating area, but we’ll see,” he said.
“We’re also looking to maintain as much of the original features of the house as possible.”
Project Hope is definitely a labour of love for Hart, as he’ll be taking time from his regular work and receiving no financial compensation from the project.
“Having the partners I have at Icon Homes allows me to set aside time for a project like this,” he said.
“If I was a sole proprietor, there’s no way I could run a business and volunteer to oversee a project of this size.”
Hart also said he’s a little overwhelmed by the number of people and businesses who are partnering on this project.
“Everyone I’ve asked has said yes,” he added.
However, Hart credits Harding as the visionary who believes everything is possible.
“Now it’s my job to make it happen,” he said with a smile.
Integris Credit Union is a longtime partner with Harding in her Freedom conferences and now with the first of several community projects Harding envisions for Quesnel.
Several Integris employees are involved with Project Hope including Angie Adams who is coordinating the volunteers, sorting out skills and passing those names on to Hart.
“Then it’s my job to coordinate those volunteers on site,” he said.
Hart said he’s happy to give back to the community that has made things possible for him.
“I’ve been in Quesnel for 26 years,” he said.
“I arrived here with my tools and van. Now I have a successful business. I’ve worked hard and had the support of the community.
“It was nice to be asked and have a chance to pay back the community for all the great things that have happened for me.”
Hart went on to say Quesnel is a great town with unlimited potential.
“We just need vision and leadership. We have terrific resources, both human and natural.”
In addition to the challenge of completing the transformation in just 10 days, Hart says he thinks the project will be fun.
“I’m wired to enjoy the chaos of construction,” he laughingly admitted.
But in the end, Hart is pleased about the revamping of the Women’s Resource Centre.
“They do good and vital work and should be supported,” he said.
“They don’t have a big budget and it’s important for the community to support these types of organizations.”
However, Project Hope is looking for additional financial commitment to be in place by April 20 so they know
the scope of the work they can accomplish.
“The primary need right now is cash donations for aspects not covered by in-kind donations.”
Those interested in helping Project Hope can visit the facebook page PROJECT HOPE QUESNEL 2011 for information, e-mail projecthope2011@gmail.com or phone 250-255-7404.
