Jon's Genesis Project Speech

Thanks, Mys, for this gem :)

MAYOR BOOKER AND JON BON JOVI CUT RIBBON, OPEN GENESIS PROJECT AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

The opening of the HELP Genesis JBJ Soul housing project represents a milestone in the provision of services to persons living with AIDS. It provides an opportunity for affected individuals to live an independent life. We are happy to have been part of the group of organizations that brought this project to fruition, said Jim Gonzalez, President and CEO of Broadway House.

Led by the efforts of the Economic Development Departments Housing and Real Estate Division, the City of Newark has provided planning and development support for the project, including gap financing in the amount of $1.4 million funded through the federal Department of Housing and Urban Developments (HUD) Home Investment Partnership Program.

Jon Bon Jovi's involvement with HELP USA dates back to Fall 2006, when Jon Bon Jovi and designer Kenneth Cole joined together in an effort they dubbed, R.S.V.P. to HELP. Leading up to the 2006-2007 holiday season, the two partnered on a collaborative, limited-edition outerwear collection and a holiday gala to raise awareness and support for homelessness. Proceeds from the sale of the limited edition jackets, gala tickets, donations, and online auction raised funds that became the seed money for the HELP USA build in Newark. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of Kenneth Coles R.S.V.P. fragrance products - the campaign featured Jon Bon Jovi issuing a plea for Americans answer the call the help others - were donated to Habitat For Humanity, HELP USA, and Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation.

Elle Decor and designer Elaine Griffin have donated their time and resources to create a sample apartment at Newark Soul Homes. All furnishings have been provided by HomeGoods who in turn is donating gift cards to all 51 units for use in their stores.

HELP USA, a leading national nonprofit developer of supportive service housing for the homeless, low income families and special needs population - has developed the Newark project in collaboration with architectural services from George Marks of Kramer/Marks and financial and development consultant, Metro Company, LLC (Metro), and Claremont Construction Group.



I'll have the rips of this up later tonight.
~ Hath