In the spirit of all of the do-it-yourself home renovation television shows, the Junior League of Edmonton's Impact Edmonton Committee organized a renovation project on March 6, 2004, at START House (the Youth Emergency Shelter’s longer-term residential service for youth). The project was featured in the March 11, 2004, edition of the Edmonton Journal and the April/May 2004 issue of Edmonton Woman Magazine.

As part of the project, League members volunteered their time and resources to redecorate the living room of START House from top to bottom. From sewing, to painting, to updating furniture, the women of the League created a comfortable and inviting space for START House teens.

Sponsors
Photos
Comments from START House Staff and Clients

Sponsors

The League would like to thank the following businesses for their generous donations to the project:

	In excess of $750 of building supplies
	Twenty-six T-shirts worn by the work crew
	Use of its classroom facility for sewing and employees' time assisting the crew
	Five hard hats worn by the work crew leaders

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Photos

Before
During
After

START House Living Room Before

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START House Living Room During

The floor, after the carpet has been pulled up but before we start laying laminate

Marc, Tanya's husband, volunteers to be our laminate leader.

After training, Carol lays laminate.

And the completed floor looks beautiful!

Maria and Diane start planning slipcovers.

Maria completes our first slipcover to transform the pink ottoman.

Melanie, Richell, Judy, Sandra, Jackie and Diane are all hard at work.

Diane and Jane are busy painting.

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START House Living Room After

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Comments from START House Staff and Clients

Spending time in there is like spending time "at home." I was so proud of our new living room I brought family and friends to see it.
—Michelle, Support Worker

The room looks great; I was very happy with the change.
—Tom, Support Worker

Our kids always call START home, but now it looks like it. Thanks.
—Clarence, Night Duty Worker

When I came on shift on Monday, I could not believe this was the same house I had left on Thursday morning. It is nice to know that there are kind hearts out there. Thanks.
—Mary, Night Duty Worker

Wow. The living room is so comfortable. I love spending time in there. It is amazing!
—Jules, Call-In Staff

To see the kids' amazement and pride in their home is priceless. I know that the community supports YESS; now I can see it every day when I walk in the door. Thank you for the inspiration.
—Cindy, Program Supervisor

Makes my day. I felt very ecstatic walking in.
—Dave, Client

It gave the room more positive energy and vibrant colour. It feels comfortable, welcoming… just like home.
—Mike, Client

It brings light into the room and makes you want to spend time in there. You can kick your feet up and relax. It looks more like a home now.
—Debbie, Client

It feels great! I have been so excited I have invited all of my friends to see.
—Darlene, Client

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