It’s been over a month now since we had the great pleasure to present the
keys to the house to Bob and Crystal and their children, and to showcase their
new house to the hundreds of contributors who made it all possible. For us it
has been 9 months of great fun, many long work-days, and an opportunity to meet
many interesting people. We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity of our
community – the businesses, organizations and individuals of Kelowna. So many
were inspired to give – inspiration that led to action – and most of you had never
even met the family. You gave your very best – quality products and workmanship
that the family can be proud of for years to come. Thank you for working together
with us to make this dream come true: a dream for an exceptional family who needed
more space, and a dream for us all to give in a way we had never done before.
Through it all we’ve never questioned the worthiness of Bob and Crystal, and
have continued to be blessed by their love and commitment as parents to 9
terrific children. They have used the experience of Project Family Room to
teach their children many lessons about hard work, generosity, community service
and God’s faithfulness. Now that their family has the space to eat together, watch
a movie together, and welcome others into their home, we are hearing anecdotes
about how a little more elbow room has helped to foster even deeper familial
relationships and inspired them to give even more - they were already very
generous people - from their own abundance.
Project Family Room was a unique project that happened at just the right
time for just the right people. We truly hope it inspires others to initiate
similar projects which would give many others the opportunity to give generously.
We know there are many needs and many more deserving families…. Perhaps on a
smaller scale, or perhaps in other communities, the idea of Project Family Room
will spawn many more community-based ‘extreme home makeovers’. We’d be happy to
share our experiences with anyone who might be considering a project of this scale
and has questions about how to begin. Just send us an email at info@projectfamilyroom.org
Paul & Verena Benson, Greg Harris
Project Family Room Directors
27.01.09
We've now spent a month in the biggest gift we have ever received.
Every day we are reminded of the thoughts, care and love that surround us. Soon
after we moved in, parts of Kelowna were without power for six hours. We were warm
and able to make a huge pot of soup, fully aware that without this new house, we'd
have been trying to find food and warmth for our littlest ones. To some people
building a house is a job, but to us it has been a miracle that doesn't stop.
At every opportunity, we tell people about the heros of Kelowna. Hundreds of
people, most of them people we had never met, gathered together to make our lives
richer and simpler. We were content with the original house, but with the passion
and vision of our heros, we can see clearer and further than we ever had before.
At Christmas, we were amazed that our guests lingered. We had a lovely evening
and relaxed with our dessert and coffee. Later, it occurred to us that people
stayed because they had somewhere to sit. Our holidays have always been rich
and full, but this Christmas topped them all!
It isn't about the house, though our new home is gorgeous. The changes in our
lives are because of the heros around us. We are reminded daily that each of us is
capable of something great. We can not be limited by our jobs and hobbies, because
these jobs and hobbies can change lives. Every day I ask myself, "What if I did a
little more for someone? What if I give all I can give?" Our children, and our
children's children will grow up with more than a beautiful house.
They will grow up surrounded by stories of heroes. They will mature with the
knowledge that they can make a difference. It takes a vision, a skill and the willingness
to do more than required. This house is a testament to the spirit of Kelowna and I
hope people often drive by to see what people with a vision can do!
Thank you for the thoughts, prayers, sweat and donations. Our lives will never be
the same, and we hope we can be the kind of family that is worthy of this gift.
We are very grateful for the contributions of those who built and furnished
the home and yard: you gave of your time, your products, and your services. Not
only you gave, but you gave of your very best. The finished result is a beautiful
home that can be enjoyed by so many for years to come. This is your legacy, both
to our family and to the community. Our family has been changed, and those changes
will be felt for generations to come. Future generations will look back to this
event and be grateful for the huge outpouring of support from this community to
our family. Your investment has taught us how to give. Hopefully we can learn to
give in the same spirit that you have given.
Our children are witnesses of your hard work, your generosity, your commitment
to this project that produces a tremendous result when everyone's efforts are focused
on one goal. We are thankful that our children are also witness to the type of friends
that we have that would put so much hard work into something for someone else.
We are also grateful for those who gave to the project: some gave money, some provided
assistance, some fed the workers, others held bake sales and garage sales, benefit concert,
some went shopping, and others came and cleaned. The list goes on and on. So many people
gave us encouragement and were happy for us. Thanks to you all. We now have a home that
we enjoy sharing with others.
I was truely blesssed to be a part of this project , along with my guys involved .
this was like no other project . i would like to thank all the neighbours and friends
that brought baked goods and coffee , and interior savings that brought lunch , those
little acts of kindness go a long way in construction when you work so hard . Bob and
Crystal and kids i was so glad to get to know you guys , you are beautifull people and
truely deserve this gift . God bless you all. P.S. Bob i need my power washer back in
the spring ........... lol
What joy to see the house as it was being revealed to my wonderful daughter and son-in-law and their children! I couldn't
believe my eyes when I saw food in the pantry, all new top-of-the-line appliances, and even a crawl-through for the little
girls. The look of wonder on the faces of the little ones, the joy of the older siblings, and the grateful tears of Crystal
and Bob was overwhelming. Thank you all for the wonderful difference you have made in the lives of eleven people!
Well done, Project Family Room directors, suppliers, volunteers, and everyone who contributed to this project!!!
Your generosity is only exceeded by your love for Bob and Crystal and their children. The "house that love built"
is beautiful! We particularly loved the "reveal" photos...it was truly wonderful to see the joy and appreciation
on everyone's faces! A special thanks to Spincaster for maintaining this site so that we could follow the progress
of this project from afar. Thank you to everyone involved in providing this gift to Bob and Crystal for affirming
that good things DO happen to good people! Uncle Howard and Auntie Stella
Congratulations to all those businesses and individuals who contributed in some way to this project. Your hearts must
feel full to overflowing as a result of your generosity. This is surely a Christmas gift that will keep on giving for
years to come. Well done!
This is the kind of thing we need to see smothering the newspapers and media! An act of
kindness, something that will change the lives of many, for the better. If we could all
learn a thing or two from this act of unselfish generosity, the world will be a better place.
Positive things like this need to be seen more than the crimes and deaths, so people are not
discouraged, and realize than the power of positive thinking will change the world....after
all this all started with a positive thought, the thought to help, to do more.
I have had the honor of working with this amazing family and am so pleased to learn of this project.
I can't think of a more deserving family! I love the team work within the community! Congratulations Crystal and Bob.
Thanks to Garry Jespersen, a well-traveled, local musician, Westside Alliance Church (2011 Daimler Drive, Westbank, BC)
is hosting a GOSPEL MUSIC CONCERT on Sunday September 21 at 7pm with all proceeds to benefit Project Family Room.
Thank you Garry and friends!
Paul & Verena & Greg
Project Family Room Directors
10.09.08
It's great to have this website to keep track of all the happenings to my family's home. Being across the country
at the moment, I've had to miss a lot, but I'm smiling at the pictures and touched by the generosity of the community. Thank you!
The demolition was awesome. It was fun to watch in person but the best is yet to come – the construction. Amazing
how fast a building can be demolished but how long it takes to build one - just like a family.
This truly is an incredible story on many different levels... On demolition day to see all those orange t-shirts you
really get a sense of the scope of the project, the coordination required, and the commitment from our local construction
community. This is not like the tv show which has an unlimited budget and huge corporate sponsorship... these are small
companies with huge hearts making big sacrifices - way to go guys!
Wow, what a great project for such a worthy family, its great to see that so many contractors
are so giving of both their time and funds for such a great cause.Congratulations to [the Project
Family Room Directors] for having the courage, belief and determination to tackle such a big
project.It was great to see so many at the demolition, you really have got so many people
praying for you.As the great book says " all things are possible " Best regards.
Our family was so pleased to witness such a great act of charity, and in our own community.
Thanks for spearheading this project. The Mandryk family have given of themselves so
generously....it's wonderful to see them blessed in this way. WELL DESERVED!!! Kudos
to all those who have contributed to this project in financial and practical ways.
Its so wonderful that something good can come out of this community, I was slowly starting
to be disappointed with our society. Its nice to hear that good things can happen still!
UPDATE: The family has moved into their temporary accommodations, thanks to the City of
Kelowna which donated the use of a vacant house for Sept - Dec. Preparations for demolition
are happening now, with “Demolition Day” ceremonies scheduled for September 3. Watch for
coverage in our local media, including CHBC, The Daily Courier, The Capital News, and castanet.net.
Thanks to everyone for all your enthusiasm and support so far!
Paul & Verena & Greg
Project Family Room Directors
27.08.08
Even way down here in Texas we are thinking of this wonderful family. We are so excited about
this amazing project y'all have cooked up and couldn't think of a more deserving family. It makes
my heart feel full just to think about all of the love and generosity that you are offering.
A balm of humanity. Truly.
Wow...what an awesome idea and what a Blessing for that family...they asked for the minimum
and received the maximum (isn't that how God works!!!!) I am so happy for them. :^) Perhaps
this is the beginning of something good that will take off in Canada.
God is so good!! We have been praying for the family for 2 years for an Extreme Make-over.
Only God knew it would come from our own community. I am so proud to be a part of a community
that gives to others in need. (The fire of 2003 was a true example of the heart of Kelowna and
area.) And here we have another opportunity to show the character of our city. This family has
such a big heart for others and it is such a privilege to give back to them. Anyone who has not
had an opportunity to meet them yet, will love them when they do.
I just want to encourage anyone reading this to please consider what they can do to help those in
building this home for the family. There are many needs: materials to be purchased, trades
volunteering their time, your time to help wherever needed, donations, etc. You will not be sorry
that you did. You will be blessed beyond measure knowing that you were a part of enhancing a families
life forever.
Thank you in advance to all those who have committed to this project. You are wonderful people!!!
Thanks Lorraine, for your comment! Since we launched Project Family Room last spring, we
have heard from several friends of the family who, unbeknownst to us, were hoping and praying and
trying to make something like this to happen. We're so glad we can be part of a very large circle
of people that are working together to bless these very special parents and their children.
Paul & Verena & Greg
Project Family Room Directors
08.08.08
We were so excited to hear about PROJECT FAMILY ROOM and now demolition and construction begin next month. It will be exciting to track the progress here on the website. What a phenomenal venture!
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SUBMIT A COMMENTComments
It’s been over a month now since we had the great pleasure to present the keys to the house to Bob and Crystal and their children, and to showcase their new house to the hundreds of contributors who made it all possible. For us it has been 9 months of great fun, many long work-days, and an opportunity to meet many interesting people. We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity of our community – the businesses, organizations and individuals of Kelowna. So many were inspired to give – inspiration that led to action – and most of you had never even met the family. You gave your very best – quality products and workmanship that the family can be proud of for years to come. Thank you for working together with us to make this dream come true: a dream for an exceptional family who needed more space, and a dream for us all to give in a way we had never done before.
Through it all we’ve never questioned the worthiness of Bob and Crystal, and have continued to be blessed by their love and commitment as parents to 9 terrific children. They have used the experience of Project Family Room to teach their children many lessons about hard work, generosity, community service and God’s faithfulness. Now that their family has the space to eat together, watch a movie together, and welcome others into their home, we are hearing anecdotes about how a little more elbow room has helped to foster even deeper familial relationships and inspired them to give even more - they were already very generous people - from their own abundance.
Project Family Room was a unique project that happened at just the right time for just the right people. We truly hope it inspires others to initiate similar projects which would give many others the opportunity to give generously. We know there are many needs and many more deserving families…. Perhaps on a smaller scale, or perhaps in other communities, the idea of Project Family Room will spawn many more community-based ‘extreme home makeovers’. We’d be happy to share our experiences with anyone who might be considering a project of this scale and has questions about how to begin. Just send us an email at info@projectfamilyroom.org
Paul & Verena Benson, Greg Harris
Project Family Room Directors
27.01.09
We've now spent a month in the biggest gift we have ever received.
Every day we are reminded of the thoughts, care and love that surround us. Soon after we moved in, parts of Kelowna were without power for six hours. We were warm and able to make a huge pot of soup, fully aware that without this new house, we'd have been trying to find food and warmth for our littlest ones. To some people building a house is a job, but to us it has been a miracle that doesn't stop.
At every opportunity, we tell people about the heros of Kelowna. Hundreds of people, most of them people we had never met, gathered together to make our lives richer and simpler. We were content with the original house, but with the passion and vision of our heros, we can see clearer and further than we ever had before. At Christmas, we were amazed that our guests lingered. We had a lovely evening and relaxed with our dessert and coffee. Later, it occurred to us that people stayed because they had somewhere to sit. Our holidays have always been rich and full, but this Christmas topped them all!
It isn't about the house, though our new home is gorgeous. The changes in our lives are because of the heros around us. We are reminded daily that each of us is capable of something great. We can not be limited by our jobs and hobbies, because these jobs and hobbies can change lives. Every day I ask myself, "What if I did a little more for someone? What if I give all I can give?" Our children, and our children's children will grow up with more than a beautiful house.
They will grow up surrounded by stories of heroes. They will mature with the knowledge that they can make a difference. It takes a vision, a skill and the willingness to do more than required. This house is a testament to the spirit of Kelowna and I hope people often drive by to see what people with a vision can do!
Thank you for the thoughts, prayers, sweat and donations. Our lives will never be the same, and we hope we can be the kind of family that is worthy of this gift.
Crystal
25.01.09
We are very grateful for the contributions of those who built and furnished the home and yard: you gave of your time, your products, and your services. Not only you gave, but you gave of your very best. The finished result is a beautiful home that can be enjoyed by so many for years to come. This is your legacy, both to our family and to the community. Our family has been changed, and those changes will be felt for generations to come. Future generations will look back to this event and be grateful for the huge outpouring of support from this community to our family. Your investment has taught us how to give. Hopefully we can learn to give in the same spirit that you have given.
Our children are witnesses of your hard work, your generosity, your commitment to this project that produces a tremendous result when everyone's efforts are focused on one goal. We are thankful that our children are also witness to the type of friends that we have that would put so much hard work into something for someone else.
We are also grateful for those who gave to the project: some gave money, some provided assistance, some fed the workers, others held bake sales and garage sales, benefit concert, some went shopping, and others came and cleaned. The list goes on and on. So many people gave us encouragement and were happy for us. Thanks to you all. We now have a home that we enjoy sharing with others.
Bob
25.01.09
I was truely blesssed to be a part of this project , along with my guys involved . this was like no other project . i would like to thank all the neighbours and friends that brought baked goods and coffee , and interior savings that brought lunch , those little acts of kindness go a long way in construction when you work so hard . Bob and Crystal and kids i was so glad to get to know you guys , you are beautifull people and truely deserve this gift . God bless you all. P.S. Bob i need my power washer back in the spring ........... lol
mike campbell
07.01.09
What joy to see the house as it was being revealed to my wonderful daughter and son-in-law and their children! I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw food in the pantry, all new top-of-the-line appliances, and even a crawl-through for the little girls. The look of wonder on the faces of the little ones, the joy of the older siblings, and the grateful tears of Crystal and Bob was overwhelming. Thank you all for the wonderful difference you have made in the lives of eleven people!
Midge
18.12.08
Well done, Project Family Room directors, suppliers, volunteers, and everyone who contributed to this project!!! Your generosity is only exceeded by your love for Bob and Crystal and their children. The "house that love built" is beautiful! We particularly loved the "reveal" photos...it was truly wonderful to see the joy and appreciation on everyone's faces! A special thanks to Spincaster for maintaining this site so that we could follow the progress of this project from afar. Thank you to everyone involved in providing this gift to Bob and Crystal for affirming that good things DO happen to good people! Uncle Howard and Auntie Stella
Uncle Howard and Auntie Stella
13.12.08
WOW! BRAVO! Wonderful photos! You guys ROCK! What a beautiful thing you have all done for such a special, wonderful family! XOXOXO!
Lauren
12.12.08
Congratulations to all those businesses and individuals who contributed in some way to this project. Your hearts must feel full to overflowing as a result of your generosity. This is surely a Christmas gift that will keep on giving for years to come. Well done!
Donna
12.12.08
This is the kind of thing we need to see smothering the newspapers and media! An act of kindness, something that will change the lives of many, for the better. If we could all learn a thing or two from this act of unselfish generosity, the world will be a better place. Positive things like this need to be seen more than the crimes and deaths, so people are not discouraged, and realize than the power of positive thinking will change the world....after all this all started with a positive thought, the thought to help, to do more.
Tera Cancino
16.09.08
I have had the honor of working with this amazing family and am so pleased to learn of this project. I can't think of a more deserving family! I love the team work within the community! Congratulations Crystal and Bob.
Denise
12.09.08
Thanks to Garry Jespersen, a well-traveled, local musician, Westside Alliance Church (2011 Daimler Drive, Westbank, BC) is hosting a GOSPEL MUSIC CONCERT on Sunday September 21 at 7pm with all proceeds to benefit Project Family Room. Thank you Garry and friends!
Paul & Verena & Greg
Click HERE for more info.Project Family Room Directors
10.09.08
Heart-warming...this truly is what makes the world go round.
Elizabeth S.
06.09.08
It's great to have this website to keep track of all the happenings to my family's home. Being across the country at the moment, I've had to miss a lot, but I'm smiling at the pictures and touched by the generosity of the community. Thank you!
Natasha (oldest daughter)
05.09.08
The demolition was awesome. It was fun to watch in person but the best is yet to come – the construction. Amazing how fast a building can be demolished but how long it takes to build one - just like a family.
Kevin
05.09.08
This truly is an incredible story on many different levels... On demolition day to see all those orange t-shirts you really get a sense of the scope of the project, the coordination required, and the commitment from our local construction community. This is not like the tv show which has an unlimited budget and huge corporate sponsorship... these are small companies with huge hearts making big sacrifices - way to go guys!
Dave & Stace
05.09.08
Wow, what a great project for such a worthy family, its great to see that so many contractors are so giving of both their time and funds for such a great cause.Congratulations to [the Project Family Room Directors] for having the courage, belief and determination to tackle such a big project.It was great to see so many at the demolition, you really have got so many people praying for you.As the great book says " all things are possible " Best regards.
M&N
04.09.08
Our family was so pleased to witness such a great act of charity, and in our own community. Thanks for spearheading this project. The Mandryk family have given of themselves so generously....it's wonderful to see them blessed in this way. WELL DESERVED!!! Kudos to all those who have contributed to this project in financial and practical ways.
Dwayne & Rochelle Schulz
04.09.08
Its so wonderful that something good can come out of this community, I was slowly starting to be disappointed with our society. Its nice to hear that good things can happen still!
Alicia
04.09.08
UPDATE: The family has moved into their temporary accommodations, thanks to the City of Kelowna which donated the use of a vacant house for Sept - Dec. Preparations for demolition are happening now, with “Demolition Day” ceremonies scheduled for September 3. Watch for coverage in our local media, including CHBC, The Daily Courier, The Capital News, and castanet.net. Thanks to everyone for all your enthusiasm and support so far!
Paul & Verena & Greg
Project Family Room Directors
27.08.08
Even way down here in Texas we are thinking of this wonderful family. We are so excited about this amazing project y'all have cooked up and couldn't think of a more deserving family. It makes my heart feel full just to think about all of the love and generosity that you are offering. A balm of humanity. Truly.
Dani S.
15.08.08
Wow...what an awesome idea and what a Blessing for that family...they asked for the minimum and received the maximum (isn't that how God works!!!!) I am so happy for them. :^) Perhaps this is the beginning of something good that will take off in Canada.
Aurora and Dave
09.08.08
God is so good!! We have been praying for the family for 2 years for an Extreme Make-over. Only God knew it would come from our own community. I am so proud to be a part of a community that gives to others in need. (The fire of 2003 was a true example of the heart of Kelowna and area.) And here we have another opportunity to show the character of our city. This family has such a big heart for others and it is such a privilege to give back to them. Anyone who has not had an opportunity to meet them yet, will love them when they do. I just want to encourage anyone reading this to please consider what they can do to help those in building this home for the family. There are many needs: materials to be purchased, trades volunteering their time, your time to help wherever needed, donations, etc. You will not be sorry that you did. You will be blessed beyond measure knowing that you were a part of enhancing a families life forever.
Thank you in advance to all those who have committed to this project. You are wonderful people!!!
Lorraine
08.08.08
Thanks Lorraine, for your comment! Since we launched Project Family Room last spring, we have heard from several friends of the family who, unbeknownst to us, were hoping and praying and trying to make something like this to happen. We're so glad we can be part of a very large circle of people that are working together to bless these very special parents and their children.
Paul & Verena & Greg
Project Family Room Directors
08.08.08
We were so excited to hear about PROJECT FAMILY ROOM and now demolition and construction begin next month. It will be exciting to track the progress here on the website. What a phenomenal venture!
Michelle
06.08.08
It is fantastic what all you folks are doing for such a deserving family!
Ruby Stotter
31.07.08
What a great project you people have undertaken. I love it that it's community based - the whole village is helping to raise this family!
Craig M.
27.07.08
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