Hello! We are Robb and Lynette Norling, and we are fundraising on behalf of our long-time friends, Steve and Melinda (Mel) Hampton. Steve and Mel live in Illinois and shared their devastating story with us during their visit to Minnesota in December of 2023.

The Dream

In the spring of 2022, Steve and Mel received an inheritance after the passing of Steve's mom. After much consideration, they allocated these funds to a kitchen remodel and the construction of an addition to their 1200 square-foot home. This upgraded and additional space would enable them to live out their dream of opening their home to family and friends for dining, entertainment, and fellowship. Beyond this, Mel is a speech language pathologist and has needed a larger office space to operate her business. She tutors children with dyslexia who require one-on-one instruction to learn to read and spell. Mel also works from home providing online speech therapy.

The Devastation

As the project neared completion, their dream turned into a nightmare. Several issues with the addition were brought to light just as the flooring was about to be installed: a crumbling foundation, mold on the floor joists, wet insulation, water in the electrical box, a malfunctioning HVAC system, and a roof system that was likely to collapse. Throughout the project, Steve and Mel expressed many concerns to the contractor who repeatedly reassured them that everything was correct. In addition, all the required inspections were completed and passed by the county inspector. Their instincts showed themselves true when the entire addition was deemed structurally unsound and had to be demolished in November 2023. This came with significant costs and ultimately resulted in a large amount of debt for Steve and Mel, on top of the loss of their inheritance. Their home remains unfinished with the backside of their house currently wrapped in Tyvek, a significantly reduced living area and no room for a kitchen table due to reconfiguring this space in anticipation of the addition.

While Steve and Mel have started the legal process with the negligent contractor, a settlement looks bleak. They are also pursuing a lawsuit with the county, but time is not on their side. As some of you are aware, Steve is in late stage 4 kidney failure which means he may soon require dialysis and at some point, he will require a kidney and pancreatic transplant. Considering this reality, the addition would also provide a space for Steve to receive home health care and for them to gather with family and friends throughout the process.

The Goal

Because Robb has 32 years of construction experience, we decided to visit Steve and Mel in February 2024 to assess the situation firsthand and to offer some guidance. Robb was astounded at the negligence of the contractor and the county. The sight of the devastation in their home confirmed our need to help these dear friends.

Robb is committed to overseeing the re-construction of this addition, but we need many others to come alongside us financially. Our hope is that you will be moved with compassion for this couple. We have a large goal, but we believe nothing is impossible; and collectively, we can bring their dream back to life and offer closure to this overwhelming situation. Will you please help?

We also ask that you share this link with your family and friends to expand our reach. Thank you so much!