05.12.12

Hoeven: Hope Village Helping Rebuild Minot Area

MINOT, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today joined local, state and Hope Village officials in a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the official opening of Hope Village, a newly created, first of its kind, volunteer center designed to coordinate and maximize volunteer efforts in the Minot area.

“Today’s event showcases the character and resolve of the citizens of the Minot area as well as the willingness of good Samaritans from across the state and country to help with our flood recovery efforts. Our friends and good neighbors from Canada have also volunteered,” Hoeven said. “While last summer’s flooding has severely impacted the Souris Valley region, it has not diminished the spirit of the community. Together, we have seen neighbors helping neighbors and witnessed wonderful acts of kindness from people at home and across the country. Hope Village is a tremendous example of how the Minot area is committed to successfully rebuilding, and we are grateful to the many people who have made this project a reality.”

Hope Village will serve as a central hub for individuals and organizations traveling to the Minot area to volunteer to help with ongoing flood recovery efforts. In addition to providing volunteers with basic accommodations such as housing and meals, Hope Village will better organize volunteers, provide tools and equipment, and serve as a central management location for the City of Minot, Ward County, and several faith-based organizations.

Since last month’s opening, Hope Village has helped increase the number of volunteers able to travel to the Minot area. In this timeframe, more than 1,000 volunteers, hailing from 26 states and three Canadian provinces, have provided more than 13,200 hours of service.