Giving Hope Center Gains Early Approval

(rendering courtesy of the Giving Hope Foundation)

Listen to this story

Subscriber Benefit

As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe Now

This audio file is brought to you by

0:00

0:00

Loading audio file, please wait.

Speed
1.00

• 0.25
• 0.50
• 0.75
• 1.00
• 1.25
• 1.50
• 1.75
• 2.00

The Lapel Town Council has given preliminary approval for the rezoning of 40 acres of land for the proposed Giving Hope Center. Our partners at The Herald Bulletin report the 125,000 square-foot facility would serve as a "home away from home" for special needs children. 

The 24-hour facility would provide therapy, education, recreation and family care. The Giving Hope Foundation Interim Executive Director Andy tells the publication the goal is to employ up to 500 people and serve 500 children within the first five years.

Andrews says the organization’s founder, Joe Shetterly, had a vision to locate the facility in Lapel.

"Through his business associates, he knew it was possible," Andrews told The Herald Bulletin. "It’s right off of Interstate 69 and convenient for people to get to. We want this to be a home away from home. Our focus is on strengthening bonds of the families."

If all approvals are received, construction could begin late this year or in early spring 2018. The project and the facility’s first year operating budget could total up to $25 million.

The publication reports the council will hold a public hearing next month to discuss the rezoning effort.