For 20 years, the BATC Foundation has tapped the talents and resources of the member builders, remodelers, and suppliers of the Builders Association of the Twin Cities to help families who otherwise might not have the opportunity to have a safe and affordable home. The Foundation builds, remodels and repairs homes for Twin Cities families in need, often in partnership with local charities and organizations.
The thousands of people who donate $5.00 to tour the Artisan Dream Homes and Artisan Dream Remodeled Homes during the Parade of Homes℠ are a major source of funds for the Foundation. Last year, visitors to the Parade of Homes and Remodelers Showcase® raised more than $100,000 during the Spring and Fall tours.
New Partnership
On any given night in Minnesota, there are more than 4,000 youth and young adults who have no place to call home. The BATC Foundation has taken steps to address this need and the needs of other homeless populations by affiliating with HomeAid America, a national organization which focuses on providing services such as remodeling and construction needs to local service providers. Our first HomeAid Twin Cities project will be remodeling a home intended for homeless female veterans. Plans are underway to begin this spring in partnership with Rebuilding Together Twin Cities and MAC-V (MN Assistance Council for Veterans).
Homecoming for a disabled Veteran
Feet were cold but hearts were warm as more than a hundred people gathered together in November to welcome Army Spc Marco Solt and his family to their brand new, specially adapted home. One of two major Foundation projects in 2015, Solt’s home was built in partnership with local builder Accent Homes and Homes for Our Troops. The mortgage free home features more than 40 special adaptation to help Marco, who lost both legs on a tour in Afghanistan. “We are so excited, I’m at a loss for words, not only does this mean a lot to me, but it means a lot to all veterans. It shows them that there are people out there that support them,” said Marco.
A House Becomes a Home
The four medically fragile men at Homeward Bound’s Bluebird House residence are enjoying a more comfortable and spacious home thanks to the BATC Foundation and local remodeler Vujovich Design Build. The suburban rambler was transformed by the addition of a light filled great room, a second bathroom and bedroom, more storage and a first floor laundry room. The four residents were able to gather for the first time with their family and staff in their just-finished great room to celebrate the holidays. The finishing touches to the remodel are happening now, with a grand opening celebration planned for February 16th at 3:00 pm (press invitation will follow).
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The 2016 Spring Parade of Homes is sponsored by The Tile Shop and Wells Fargo Home Mortgage.
