In the fall of 2010, h.o.p.e.’s Executive Director researched potential buildings to accomodate a food pantry and thrift store. The process landed the agency at the vacant VFW building located at 3940 S. Broadway in Englewood. Through the support of a generous sponsor, h.o.p.e. acquired the Englewood facility in February 2011.

The building was affordable but is in need of extensive repairs. The new two-story building is 3,200 square feet on each level. Over eight times larger than the Lakewood building!

In 2012, Helping Our People Excel launched a capital campaign to address specific repairs & renovations. Capital expenses for interior improvements include heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), electrical, plumbing, new windows, and fire suppressant system. Exterior improvements include parking lot resurfacing and painting the outside of the building. The final component in the Capital Campaign is an elevator that will provide access for persons with disablilities to the second level. It is of fundamental importance to h.o.p.e.'s Board and Executive Director that an ADA elevator is included in the restoration of the building.

Under guidance of a general contractor h.o.p.e. completed several structural studies, for example abatements to prepare the project for immediate launch. h.o.p.e.’s Board and Staff are adopting green building measures to maximize the efficiency of building improvements. h.o.p.e. is actively restoring the property with a goal to open in 2013.

The transition to a new location, where there is enough space to efficiently serve h.o.p.e. clients, is a dream come true and is the organization’s proudest accomplishment to date. h.o.p.e.’s new home is an opportunity to turn an eyesore into a community resource that gives those in need a “hand up and not a hand out.”