Maurer described the unrenovated shelter as being in “dire need” because of its unwelcoming ’80s look. “It was just not a place where I’d like to go if I was trying to heal,” he said.

Out of many organizations’ responses to CTV’s on-air search for a group in need of makeover help, the Women’s Emergency Shelter met Maurer’s requirements—most importantly, owning their own building and being family- and/or child-oriented.

The large, three-level building holds 40 beds (which are occupied much of the time) to help women, children and youth affected by family violence. Theresa Rothenbush, communications manager for the Women’s Shelter, says the renovation remedied the facility’s biggest downfall of appearing too “institutional” due to its mass.

After the renovation, “A client came in and went, ‘Wow, it’s much nicer in here than I thought it would be,’ ” Rothenbush recalls. “That’s what we want to give to people—we want to make them feel at home as much as possible while staying (in the shelter).”

In just five days Albi Renova renovated all main areas including the foyer, hallway, teen room, family room and kitchen. Meanwhile, shelter employees continued to help clients by revamping other areas into temporary eating/recreational rooms.

“I don’t know how they do it in the extreme makeovers on TV,” Maurer says, admitting the third week of September was a blur, but also proudly noting how his family, staff and CTV employees created something new and better for the Calgary women and children in need. One memorable moment he described was when his father and Darrel Janz of CTV swapped farming stories while reupholstering chairs together for many hours.

But, now the mission is complete Maurer says, “We need to see what this economy is going to do—maybe we won’t have any money next year.” His company plans to take a breather before considering similar future projects. “I think charities are certainly going to feel it this year,” he notes in regards to the global economic crisis.

Funds raised back in May from the shelter’s Turning Points Dinner event have already been allocated to expand the existing bedroom area. Each year the Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter turns down 1,700 women and children because it’s at maximum capacity, explains Rothenbush, adding this often forces a search for other lodgings to accommodate the surplus.

The Wish Book catalogue is the Women’s Shelter’s version of a festive fundraiser. About 76,000 catalogues will be sent out in the mail, but an online version can be viewed at http://www.calgarywomensshelter.com For help, call the family violence helpline at 403-234-SAFE. NL