Posted: Monday, April 29, 2024

In a collaboration between University of Evansville (UE) civil engineering students and local organizations, the Roy and Amanda Jorgensen House of Hope held a groundbreaking on Friday at its Maxx Road location. This initiative, led by Granted, an organization dedicated to granting once-in-a-lifetime wishes to children fighting terminal illnesses or life-threatening conditions, marks a significant milestone in the community's efforts to support those in need.

From Left to Right: Nicholas Gushrowski, Zach Worley, Catie Taylor, Wes Fleischmann, and Dr. Brian Swenty.

House of Hope Rendering
Credit: Hafer Architects

The House of Hope, which will offer vital resources like counseling, has been made possible through the generous contributions of approximately 100 partners, who donated labor and materials.

Among the partners is Briar Pointe Development, which donated the 12 and a half acres of land on which the home will be built. This project has also seen the involvement of the UE civil engineering design team (SNEWBZ), a team of six senior civil engineering students from UE. Led by project manager and student Zach Worley, the SNEWBZ team has played a crucial role in the design and coordination of the House of Hope.

Worley, along with his team members Wes Fleischmann, Nicholas Gushrowski, Emily Wiebe, Samantha Elkins, and Breanna Burke, worked tirelessly to ensure the project's success. From site soil classification to drainage design, floor plans to permit applications, the team's efforts have been instrumental in bringing the House of Hope to fruition.

"We are proud to have been part of such a meaningful project," said Worley. "Collaborating with Granted and other partners has been an incredible experience, and we are thrilled to see the House of Hope become a reality."

The SNEWBZ team collaborated with various organizations, including Hafer Architects, Cash Waggner, Lochmueller Group, Patriot Engineering and Environmental, Inc., Capital Electric, Truss System Inc., Combs Landscape, Midwest-Roofing & Sheetmetal, and Home Design Group, among others, to ensure every aspect of the House of Hope's design met the highest standards.

Situated on a donated approximately 13-acre plot of land at the intersection of Maxx Road and Oak Hill Road, the House of Hope's location was carefully chosen to provide easy access while minimizing traffic disruptions. The SNEWBZ team's decision to have the entrance from Maxx Road, based on traffic flow data provided by the city, ensures the safety and convenience of visitors.

"The Roy and Amanda Jorgensen House of Hope stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and compassion," said Worley. "As it plans to officially open its doors in June 2025, it will serve as a beacon of hope and support for children and families facing life's most challenging circumstances, and we were honored to play even a small part in assisting with this community initiative."