New Hampshire nonprofits have an opportunity to get a major gift this holiday season as Building On Hope, a NH-based volunteer organization that collaborates with builders, architects, designers, and suppliers to provide physical improvements to non-profit facilities is currently searching for its next “Extreme Makeover” renovation project. Building On Hope is accepting submissions from non-profit organizations in need of significant improvements to facilities they operate. In the past six years,Building On Hope has completed $800,000 in renovations to NH organizations like Easter Seals NH, Girls Inc. and Opportunity Networks through donated goods and labor.

To be considered for Building On Hope’s 2016 project, send letter describing the work done by the nonprofit, how it benefits the community and how a rebuilt and remodeled structure could transform the organization and its services. All letters should be sent to JH@Warrenstreet.coop by January 30.

“In just over six years Building On Hope has completed $800,000 in renovations to nonprofits, and in the process, transformed hundreds of lives, leaving a legacy of hope for the future,” said Karen Van Der Beken, co-chair of Building On Hope. “As we head into the holiday season, we ask all New Hampshire nonprofits and the public to identify a project in their area that could benefit from resources Building On Hope provides.”

Every two years, Building On Hope takes on a new challenge, rallying volunteers, gathering resources and focusing attention on a projected selected for its potential to create enduring positive change forthe immediate community and the state as a whole.

In May, nearly 200 Building On Hope volunteers and dozens of companies collaborated in a $300,000 effort to transform Opportunity Networks’ facility in Amherst, an organization that serves over 100 adults ranging in age from 20 to 60 who live with acquired and developmental disabilities. With little more than basic updating and maintenance inthe past 30 years, the 6,000 square foot, the facility was in desperate need of repair. A total of 12 rooms were transformed to promote healthy and independent living skills, employment and learning, to pursuit of interests, and general needs. Volunteers aided in  the creation of a movement room, a tech theater, creative center, administrative offices, function and conference rooms, kitchen, and cafeteria.

In 2012 Building On Hope volunteers worked around the clock to bring new life into the 27 year-old Girls Inc. Manchester Girls Center building that had previously been a church. Each day approximately 100 at-risk girls attend the Manchester Girls Center to benefit from a program that handles challenging issues facing girls each day, ranging from personal safety, economic literacy, and media messages to health concerns. Renovations of the old building consisted of numerous interior and exterior improvements including: a new roof and windows; landscaping and playground area; heatingand cooling upgrades; updated bathrooms, new library and play areas; creation of office space; and a new kitchen. Total labor and material donations exceeded $250,000.

In 2010 Building On Hope completed its inaugural $250,000 renovation and dedication of The Krol House, a 1930’s home in Manchester used by Easter Seals NH as a residential home for boys with special needs. When Build on Hope finished making the necessary renovations, the White House exterior was stripped and resided and had new windows installed. The interior had fresh paint, new furniture for all of the rooms and bedrooms, and new baseboard heating and a high efficiency boiler. The grounds were updated with a handicap accessible ramp at the entrance and fence on the North end of the property, and new asphalt and a basketball hoop so the boys could play. Building on Hope was the recipient of a $5,000 grant and wide recognition from The Pepsi Refresh Project, which awarded millions of dollars in grants to individuals, groups and other organizations for getting “inspired” ideas off the ground.

Build On Hope needs donations and volunteers for their next project, as well as location ideas.

Visit www.buildingonhope.com to learn more about the organization, donate or sign up to volunteer.

Building On Hope is a community organization of volunteers who work with builders, architects and designers to provide physical improvements to facilities associated with non-profit service groups. Building On Hope was formed in 2009.

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