A Letter from Paul Estridge--The Builder Behind Indy's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

The work and faith continue to transform the Martindale-Brightwood Neighborhood.

Here is a letter from Paul Estridge, President of Estridge Homes.
Renewal is in the air. Not just because it is spring or that Easter and Passover have just passed. Renewal has been in the air in the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood ever since the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition project began late last month. Thank you so very much for building with us.

This has been one of the most exciting and renewing times of our lives. I know, with your help, we have made a difference in the lives of Bernard McFarland and his three sons. But, we are also working with the neighborhood leaders in Martindale-Brightwood to transform the entire community. Our work began with the twenty-two other houses we improved together. The seven miles of alley ways we cleaned together. The 1,200 trees we planted together. The 100 new laptops and free wireless access for over 450 homes, coming to the community next month, and the conversion of the old School #37 building to a community center is coming soon as well. Truly a life changing transformation is happening!

I hope you share our feelings of pride, excitement and renewal. I ask that you join with me and our company to continue the commitment to Martindale-Brightwood. The television cameras may be gone, but our revitalization of this neighborhood has just begun.

I have worked with Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF) to establish an Extreme Makeover Charitable Fund that will remain in place to provide short- and long-term funding for social service programs, continued physical improvements, and the creation of a permanent community center in the neighborhood. The beginning of this includes scheduled weekly activities and programs between now and the May 17th airing of the show. These activities, such as a health fair and employment training, will provide information and opportunity to the wonderful people of Martindale-Brightwood. Future initiatives include literacy initiatives, school readiness programs, workforce development, and ongoing healthcare programs.

All contributions to the fund are fully tax-deductible and CICF will ensure 100% of the funds are directed to the neighborhood.

I appreciate your willingness to make a lasting difference in the lives of the children, adults, and senior citizens in this deserving neighborhood. The needs are great, but the opportunities are greater. Click here for a list of specific examples of how your funds can benefit neighborhood residents.

Every dollar will make a difference. No contribution is insignificant - $5, $10, $50, $100 or more. You can donate on-line, by calling CICF at 317.634.2423 or sending a check to CICF, 615 N. Alabama St., Suite 116, Indianapolis, IN 46204.

Thank you for continuing to build change together in this special neighborhood.
Paul Estridge, Jr.
President & Chief Servant,
The Estridge Companies