BY KAREN BOSSICK

The Advocates’ new office and transitional housing just opened a couple weeks ago--on budget and on schedule. But, already, its visible location on Hailey’s River Street has made a difference.

One young man who saw The Advocates’ name on the outside of the building made of indestructible recycled plastic wasted no time in bringing back a friend who needed help.

Employees are slowly getting the hang of their new phone system, even as they move in families who need a temporary place to stay.

“Our first resident was a man, who grew up in an abusive situation,” noted Colleen Clark, the transitional housing manager who works alongside Jackie Hennessy, the transition programs coordinator.

The door opens onto art work by Hailey artist Melissa Graves Brown. It started out as a giving tree but blossomed into a giving forest. Stairs wind their way to the apartments above.

“The residents who have moved in so far say it feels comfortable and safe, and they’re so happy to have their own home. And they’re so thankful for those who have helped them get to this place,” said Development Director Shannon Nichols.

Nichols noted that The Advocates are closing in on the fundraising needed to create this haven and another under construction a block away. “To create 18 new apartments and a client service building for $5.5 million we think is pretty good.”

Watch as Eye on Sun Valley’s Karen Bossick takes you into the new building for a sneak peek before the apartments become occupied.

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