After a 12-year hiatus, the playful fundraiser benefiting HomeAid Orange County is returning. Project Playhouse will gather the areas top builders and designers together to create custom-designed playhouses while raising awareness and funds for HomeAid’s programs to help unhoused neighbors.
“We are thrilled to announce the revival of Project Playhouse as part of the 35th Anniversary of our organization,” says Gina Cunningham, executive director of HomeAid Orange County. “For reasons out of our control, we had to pause this special event several years ago, but the excitement never wavered. That is evident in the excellent team of volunteers and builders that quickly stepped forward to participate this year. We look forward to unveiling the 2024 playhouses in September for all to enjoy.”
The success of Project Playhouse is made possible by the dedication and expertise of select home builders who apply their vision and craftsmanship to the project, creating miniature dream homes. This year's event features builder teams from City Ventures, LIM Living, The New Home Co., Shea Homes, Toll Brothers, and TriPointe Homes.
“We got the band back together and I’m astonished at the continued level of excitement, passion, and creativity this team has to offer in support of HomeAid Orange County,” says Brandi Binns, the 2024 Project Playhouse committee chair and director of closing services for TriPointe Homes. “When you have a committee full of inspired and devoted volunteers who share the vision to end homelessness by raising awareness and crucial funds through events like Project Playhouse, it is beyond rewarding and we have a lot of fun doing it.”
This year's playhouses will be displayed at the Irvine Spectrum Center starting on September 7, culminating in an Auction Party and 35th anniversary celebration on October 5, at AV Irvine. Bidders will have the opportunity to purchase one of the playhouses while supporting a worthy cause. Builders will reveal more details about their designs in the coming months.
“Project Playhouse is not just an event; it is a powerful testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared purpose,” says Cunningham. “The funds raised will directly support HomeAid's mission to help individuals and families experiencing homelessness rebuild their lives. The only way to end homelessness is through housing and we believe every human deserves a safe and dignified place to call home.”
The need for solutions to homelessness in Orange County has never been more urgent. Recent statistics reveal a troubling 28% increase in overall homelessness in the region, rising from 5,718 to 7,322 people in the past year alone, HomeAid notes. This includes a 17% increase in homelessness among veterans, a 31% rise among transitionally aged youth (18 to 24), and a 21% increase in the senior population.
