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More than 100 local renovators from BILD Edmonton Metro gave a free three-day makeover to the Youth Empowerment and Support Services (YESS) shelter on Whyte Avenue, enhancing its welcoming atmosphere for young people.
More than 100 local renovators banded together to give a non-profit organization a much-needed makeover in Edmonton, transforming the Youth Empowerment and Support Services (YESS) shelter on Whyte Avenue. The volunteers, builders, and renovators from BILD Edmonton Metro completed the project over three days, free of charge. YESS connects young people in need with mental, emotional, and physical resources, and the renovation aimed to create a more welcoming space for youth aged 15-21 experiencing crisis.
YESS Shelter Receives Major Renovation
Joyce LaBriola, chief development officer of YESS, said that normal fundraising efforts for the organization just keep the lights on. But BILD Edmonton, another non-profit in the city, has given it what she described as a kind of luxury that they have not had the pleasure of having. She told CTV News Edmonton that being able to allow themselves to imagine what could be possible was an incredible experience, referring to the rooms and work done by the volunteers.
The renovation project took three days to complete and was done at no cost to YESS. The youth have already commented on how much more welcoming and inviting everything feels, LaBriola added. One youth said it does not feel like a shelter, it feels like a hotel. This transformation is expected to have a positive impact on the young people who use the shelter’s services.
BILD Edmonton Metro Leads Volunteer Effort
In a media release, Paul Lanni, board chair of BILD Edmonton Metro, said the project was made possible with the help of businesses around the city that asked how they could help. He noted that these projects are about much more than renovations; they are about coming together as an industry, using skills and resources to make a meaningful difference, and supporting the organizations that serve communities. The collaboration involved more than 100 local renovators who volunteered their time and expertise.
BILD Edmonton Metro will continue to highlight the work of its renovators throughout October, the non-profit said. This initiative is part of a broader effort to give back to the community and support organizations like YESS that provide essential services to vulnerable youth.
YESS Continues to Support Youth in Crisis
YESS has worked with Edmonton’s young people for more than 40 years and operates a 24/7 support centre for those aged 15-21 who are experiencing crisis. The organization works to connect them with medical care, mental health support, and community resources. The renovation of the shelter on Whyte Avenue is expected to enhance the environment for these youth, making it more conducive to healing and growth.
The project not only improved the physical space but also boosted the morale of the youth and staff. LaBriola expressed gratitude for the efforts of BILD Edmonton and the many businesses that contributed. The transformation serves as a reminder of the power of community collaboration and the impact it can have on local organizations.
With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Darcy Seaton, this story highlights the positive change that can be achieved when industries come together to support those in need. The renovated shelter now stands as a beacon of hope for young people in Edmonton, offering a welcoming and inviting space where they can access the support they need to thrive.
Edmonton Renovation YESS Shelter BILD Edmonton Metro Whyte Avenue Youth Support Joyce Labriola Paul Lanni
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