Connecticut Extreme Makeover Home Edition

Although volunteers have been working for a few weeks behind the scenes, the official announcement came this morning; ABC will be coming to Eastern Connecticut to film an episode of Extreme Makeover – Home Edition. Conrad Ricketts, the executive producer, spoke at Foxwoods this morning to a group of about 400 enthusiastic volunteers, sponsors and trade people about building a home for a deserving local family in 106 hours. Conrad told stories about past projects and showed several tear jerker videos which gave the group a taste of what we can expect.  I didn’t have nearly enough Kleenex. I heard plenty of sniffles so I wasn’t alone. You’ll find some nice photographs of the event at the Norwich Bulletin’s Photo Gallery.

What does it take to be a volunteer?   Here’s the scoop:  An Extreme Makeover – Home Edition project isn’t like building a home for Habitat for Humanity. Only licensed contractors will be used on the project.  If you just finished remodeling your bathroom but don’t have a plumbing license….well, you can still help just not as a plumber. If you have a desire to get involved and don’t mind pushing a broom, picking up debris, or serving a meal, there may be a job for you.  Night owls are especially appreciated.  And did I mention you might need thermal underwear? 

I’ll let the PR folks give you the details at the project website, Extreme Home by Bruno.  That’s the place to go to find photographs and frequent “official” updates.  Think of my blog as more of a collection of stories about the people and events that will change a family and a community over the next few weeks.