In June 2010, a group of boys residing at the Home had a dream. They wanted improved sports facilities that included our basketball court, ball field, and building a pavilion. Their journey began when they approached Dr. Vince with their wishes. He requested they work as a team, research what was needed to accomplish their dream, and prepare a presentation to present to key staff members.

After witnessing this team effort and collaboration, we were so impressed with their efforts, that we invited community members to hear their presentation. The project was named Field of Dreams. Eric Burkey, President of Burkey Construction, got involved. Eric approached several businesses on our behalf and got them on board for this very worthwhile project. He was on our September BCTV show highlighting this project. On the show Eric stated “I had a basic understanding of The Children's Home, but I didn’t know the extent of it. After meeting the guys who put this together and seeing what they do there, it really blew me away. You can’t ignore their passion and the work they put into this”. To see the show in it’s entirely, go to www.bctv.org and look up the Building Kids Lives Field of Dreams archived show.

We are glad to report that due to the generosity and support of some donors, we already have commitments for the basketball court. The sealing and lining will be performed this Fall, backboards and rims have been ordered, and the residents will be prepping and painting the existing poles, and creating graphics to put on the court. The ball field and pavilion work should start in the Spring. Even though some of these residents will not be here to enjoy the end result of their work, we were very impressed with their desire to have this help future residents at CHOR as well.

We would like to thank the following donors who have supported this project so far. A full listing will be available after the project is completed: Burkey Construction, VPH Charities, Jeremy Carroll Foundation, The Knabb family, Irish Creek Excavating, EJB Paving, and Amity Fence.

For more information on this project, please contact Mindy McIntosh, Development Coordinator, at 610.478.8266 ext. 468 or mmcintosh@childrenshomeofrdg.org.