"University HOPE: Housing OPportunities through Education" is a student organization related to the campus of California State University, Fresno with the aim of building hope in our community by constructing houses, rehabilitating existing homes, and helping to improve neighborhoods. The primary mission of University HOPE is to capture the imagination, energy, and commitment of students, faculty and staff in order to productively and responsibly involve them in the work of providing adequate housing for families in need. Grounded in the Judeo-Christian tradition, and open to persons of all faith traditions, University HOPE seeks to connect our spiritual lives to the needs of the world.

In 1998, HOPE's fourth house was completed for Reynaldo and Petra Trujillo and their three children. This year, University HOPE is completing construction of the fifth house -- a one bedroom home in Clovis (at the corner of Acacia and First) for an older adult family in need. The goal of this project is to mobilize the talents and resources of students, faculty, and staff, the business sector, and the community at large in the completion of this home. We plan to have the homeowners settled in their new home by December of this year. In addition, other neighborhood revitalization projects will be scheduled during the semester.

Anyone who has an interest in this exciting project is invited to participate. In addition to general volunteers, we are also looking for persons who have some experience in the following construction tasks: laying floor tile, electrical work, installing sprinklers, painting, finish carpentry, fence building, and more. If you have the interest and desire, there's a job for you!

From the University, go east on Barstow to Sunnyside. Turn left (north) on Sunnyside until you come to First. Turn left (west) on First. The construction site is on the northeast corner of First and Acacia.

The benefits of involvement with HOPE are numerous. First, HOPE makes possible a partnership and bonding among students, faculty and staff while utilizing their talents as they work together to build a home. Second, HOPE gives students the opportunity to apply the theory and concepts they have learned in the classroom. Third, HOPE develops leadership and interpersonal skills through interaction with others at the university and in the community. Finally, HOPE gives us all an opportunity to make a real difference in our world.

Join us! We need your energy, commitment and skills -- even if you have never swung a hammer! There are different levels at which one can get involved including, but not limited to construction, fund-raising, marketing, education, publicity development, and solicitation of materials. Call us at 224-9051. We need your help to make the dream come true!
 

For more information, email Chris Fiorentino