Community Outreach
The Heart of Envision Homes
As the 2007 wildfires ravished San Diego County, Greg Bradford, CEO of Envision Homes, recalls being ‘greatly troubled’ by the devastation. He knew he had to be involved in the rebuilding efforts and help people get back on their feet. As a result, Envision Homes was one of the first to respond to the Wildfire Rebuild efforts and continues to work towards ensuring that the needs’ of affected families are met.
Little did he know at the time, that ‘helping people get back on their feet’ meant donating an entire house! This came about after driving the fire zones and contemplating his role in the rebuild. One evening, at a church event, he sensed the voice of God saying, ‘Build a house for someone who doesn’t have insurance”. Since this was far from your ordinary everyday experience, he consulted with his wife. Without hesitation she said, “We have to do it!” After seeking out advice from friend and Pastor of the Rock Church, Miles McPherson, the process of finding the right family began. After interviewing a number of deserving families, they selected one in Ramona.
The John and Adrianne Oleson family, like most fire survivors, lost everything. But, unlike others, they were caught without insurance. They graciously received the offer to have their home rebuilt. “The things I’ve lost are just things. It hurts, but most things are replaceable,” John Oleson said. “I’m just blown away by how many people really care.”
Envision Homes built a 2,097 square foot home with four bedrooms and two and half baths -- for no out of pocket expenses to the Olesons. On September 27, 2008, a ribbon cutting took place to commemorate the completion of the home and to rejoice with the Olesons. It was a celebration!
“Many of us give to charities and support causes where we’re kind of disconnected, but when you give to something where you’re involved with a family, and the response that they have, it’s just unbelievable,” said Greg Bradford.
