Published: May 31, 2009 10:30 pm      

Cass County site of widespread renovations

Faith-based work camp confirms intentions of bringing 500 people to help repair some 80 homes in a week.

Cass County has officially been chosen as a site to receive repairs on up to 80 homes through the efforts of a church mission trip.

Deputy Mayor Linda Klinck recently announced that some 500 people from Group Workcamps Foundation, a faith-based organization out of Loveland, Colo., would undertake repairs the week of July 4, 2010. Confirmation came after more than a year of local efforts to schedule the project.

The next step is to identify between 60 and 80 homes in need of repairs such as painting, replacing windows and fixing a leaking roof. The owner of the property must live in the residence so rental properties will not be eligible.

“It will be a long, detailed-organized year we have ahead of us preparing for this,” Klinck said.

On its missions, Group Workcamps brings in some 400 young people accompanied by about 100 electricians, carpenters and plumbers. The youth who participate come from across the United States and pay for the opportunity to help a community. Their fees cover the cost of lodging, which is usually at a school so the not-for-profit group can have access to a gym and a cafeteria.

For the week they are in Cass County, they will stay at Pioneer High School in Royal Center and be bused to the homes on the repair list.

Maj. Rose Eagle of the Salvation Army has been instrumental in securing a commitment from Group Workcamps. She said the project would result in major improvements, as well as economic impact due to the influx of workers.

“We are so excited,” Eagle said. “That’s going to be wonderful.”

Much ground work still lies ahead, Eagle said. The process of choosing qualified homes will require review on a case-by-case basis.

Volunteers are needed to help organize the project at the local level. Manual labor and monetary donations are welcomed. Local businesses have volunteered manpower and equipment to aid in the project.

Mayor Mike Fincher said he looked forward to the beautification effort.

“It will increase the curb appeal of the community,” he said.



Need more info?

To find out more about the project, call either the Salvation Army at (574) 722-1979 or Deputy Mayor Linda Klinck at (574) 753-2551.



Kevin Lilly is news editor of the Pharos-Tribune. He can be reached at (574) 732-5117 or kevin.lilly@pharostribune.com