The Hope Herald
August 13, 2024
A Word From the Executive Director
Dear Friends,
Our job skills training program continues to be a central part of the Hope CDA life transformation ministry. Our men develop new habits and learn about teamwork, perseverance and hard work. Each participant is paid for 30 hours each week.
This program has a big benefit to our community. In partnering with the United Way of East Central Iowa, City of Cedar Rapids, Housing Fund for Linn County, Wellington Heights Neighborhood Association, among others, we are transforming neighborhoods and creating homes for low-income families.
“What Hope CDA is doing is pretty remarkable,” Cedar Rapids City Council Member Dale Todd says. “Hope CDA contributes to making our community a better place to live.”
So far this year, we have completed a record number of houses (6). Hope CDA is refurbishing an average of five houses a year, with 29 completed since 2013.
This doesn’t happen without an excellent and inspirational staff. Enterprise Manager Jamie Williams oversees a remarkable group of foreman (Shane Ness, Elijah Price, along with graduates Eric Mullinex and Trent Tuel). These men work faithfully with our participants each day—and we see God doing amazing things as we restore lives and neighborhoods at the same time. (Read more about our jobs training program in this newsletter).
Our motto is “Offering Hope. Building Lives.” Thank you for helping Hope CDA bring hope to our neighborhoods and into the lives of men looking for a second chance.
Your teammate in Christ,
Carl Gonder
Executive Director
About the Hope CDA Jobs Training Program
How did the program start?
The original vision came from Dan Garrick who came with Eight Days of Hope from Oregon in 2008. He was hired by the county to help with flood recovery. In 2010, he came to Serve the City with a vision to create a jobs training program for men coming out of prison. Hope CDA was then formed in 2010 as a Christian non-profit. The jobs training program has grown each year.
What other organizations are involved?
The City of Cedar Rapids, Housing Fund for Linn County, Grandon Foundation, United Way of East Central Iowa, Wellington Heights Neighborhood Association, along with several local businesses.
What are some of the big benefits to the community?
Hope CDA is playing a role in helping to revitalize neighborhoods. Houses purchased with the help of grant money can only be sold to low-income families. At the same time, we are employing and training men—and preparing them to become productive members of society.
How does the grant process work?
Most of the grants for blighted homes come from an application process with the City of Cedar Rapids and the Housing Fund for Linn County.
How long does it take to complete a home?
It takes on average about nine months to complete a home, depending on the condition of the property.
What types of things take place in a typical house refurbishment?
Kitchen and bathroom renovations, new flooring, painting, drywall repair, leveling the floors, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, among other things.
How does Hope CDA train participants?
We have qualified and certified foreman who oversee the participants and teach them new skills. We offer a weekly construction class, along with on-the-job training.
Are the participants paid?
Yes. Our participants are paid for approximately 30 hours of work each week. This is part of philosophy about the biblical principles associated with work. We also work with our men on budgeting and financial management skills.
What is the bigger goal of the jobs training program?
To impact the lives of more men looking for a second chance in life and to continue to play a leading role in revitalizing Cedar Rapids neighborhoods.
Is this the only business entity at Hope CDA?
No. We have a growing and expanding “Side Jobs Enterprise” that includes handyman jobs, home renovations, bathroom and kitchen remodels, and other home improvement projects. We also do lawn care. For a quote on any home improvement project, please call Jamie Williams on 319-560-0984.
