The Build a Kid to Cure fundraiser has officially kicked off and Sorento Custom Homes now has 30 days to complete a house in Westlake.

The home was started yesterday morning and by noon the tradesmen were working on raising wall number three.

Darcy Stingel from Sunny 94 explained that this is the fifth house that has been built as a part of the fundraising effort. This year, funds raised will support the Ronald McDonald House of Central Alberta.

“Sorento Homes was responsible for coordinating all of the trades as well as the suppliers,” said Stingel.

Dave Wild, chairman of the board with the Build a Kid and Golf a Kid to Cure fundraisers, said everyone was very excited to see this happen and get the project moving.

“I bet if we were to come back tonight, the roof would be on. That’s the dedication,” said Wild.

Larry Mathieson, the executive director of the Ronald McDonald House for Central Alberta, said that he is impressed by the speed with which the house is going up.

“I parked and there was a foundation and by the time I crossed the street, a wall was up.”

Wild said the fundraising goal was $300,000 and that at this point they are looking to meet that value this year, if not exceed it.

“We will meet our commitment and maybe even have a few leftover dollars to donate to other local charities,” said Wild.

The sponsors of the Build a Kid to Cure fundraiser include Rooftop Roofing, Trail Appliances, Dynovac and Central Alberta Tile One.

“As you can tell, with these sponsors, we have everyone you would ever need to build a house,” said Stingel.

City Councillor Tara Veer was present for the event and said she is inspired once again by the dedication of Red Deerians.

“It speaks to your character that you take part on a continuous basis. We are willing to give in a time when there is not much to be given,” said Veer.

Veer also said it is nice to see ordinary people taking time out of their lives to take part in something extraordinary.

“The City is sincerely grateful for those who are not refusing to do the ‘something’ that they can do.”

For more information, call Dave at 403-343-1125.

kpalardy@reddeerexpress.com