7/20/2005

Mercedes Homes In the News

Mercedes Homes Fixes Girls Ranch for TV Show
by Kathy Hagood
Florida Today
http://www.floridatoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050720/NEWS0302/507200312/1009/NEWS03

When the producer of the "Extreme Makeover" television show asked Mercedes Homes administrators about building a home for the show, the company's chief operating officer suggested housing be built for the Children's Home Society of Florida.

Scott Buescher wanted to help the Brevard division of the nonprofit organization, which his company has supported in various ways in the past.

After "Extreme Makeover" staffers said they weren't interested, Buescher decided Mercedes Homes would instead refurbish housing at the Hacienda Girls Ranch in Melbourne, which is operated by the society.

"Mercedes Homes has been working with the Hacienda Girls Ranch for quite a few years now. We wanted to do something that would really improve the quality of life for the girls. We asked Hacienda what they wanted, and now, we're making that happen, " Buescher said.

The company soon found their suppliers and vendors were willing to donate materials and time to support the project, which began in May and is expected to wrap up by the end of the month. About 40 volunteers have participated and a total of about $150, 000 in labor and supplies has been invested.

Work being done includes painting the interior and exterior; building storage areas; installing new cabinets, carpeting and window treatments; landscaping; and re-grading the parking lot.

"We've been given a tremendous response from our trade partners. Everyone has pitched in to support this, " said Amy Meyers, Buescher's administrative assistant.

Mercedes Homes and the Children's Home Society have coordinated efforts to ensure that the girls aren't displaced too long from various Hacienda living areas while the work is going on.

"We really appreciate the efforts of Mercedes Homes and their partners, " said Mary Beth Phelps, spokeswoman for the society. "Community involvement like this makes such a difference in the lives of these children."

The society offers a variety of outreach and support services to families and children.