A worthwhile fundraiser

Recently, bad news hit the House of Hope, a division of Mission Teens, Inc.

Because the the organization's building, located at 5525 United States 40, Brazil, is not in compliance with Indiana State Code, it was forced to move residents out.

Assistant Director Brian Rosano has stayed in touch with The Brazil Times throughout the ordeal.

Early in February, residents were moved out of the building. However, staff still maintain residence at the facility.

Since two inspections conducted by the Indiana State Fire Marshal's office in December took place, it was found the building needed major upgrades, including a fire alarm system, work on handicap accessible exits, a sprinkler system and more.

In addition, officials with the Fire Marshal's office found there were electrical and plumbing issues.

All occupants housed at the facility were ordered to lead and approximately two-thirds of them were transferred to other facilities in Illinois, Tennessee and Arkansas.

According to Rosano, the organization purchased the property in 1999 and was given occupancy by the City of Brazil. But while the organization considers itself a church, the state calls it a drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility, meaning the upgrades have to be made.

Rosano recently told the paper the organization is working with an architectural firm on possible costs for the upgrades.

And it is in the process of setting up numerous fundraisers, one of which takes place this Saturday.

The organization will host an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast Saturday at the YMCA of Clay County, 225 E. Kruzan St., Brazil, from 8 a.m.-noon.

A $5 donation will cover each person served.

The annual fundraiser always attracts many residents. The pancakes are great. The atmosphere is wonderful and brief tours typically take place explaining the usefulness of the organization.

This time, however, the fundraiser has much more meaning.

All proceeds from the breakfast will go toward expenses for the facility.

The money will go a long way for this organization.

Rosano said other fundraisers are in the works, including a spring fair with musical acts, a bake sale and silent auction as well as the organization's annual yard sale.

House of Hope is a faith ministry affiliated with Mission Teens, Inc., based in New Jersey. The organization was founded by Rev. James D. Bracken in 1969 and has 15 facilities across the country.

I would encourage all to come to the YMCA Saturday morning, grab a stack of pancakes, and eat up. That money will go a long way in helping a worthwhile organization.

See you there.