“Family House Yard Renewal” – Kurepesa Project

Valga Family Centre Kurepesa is home to two foster families with 14 children, 9 of whom are teenage boys aged 13 to 18. The house, built in 2015, offers a safe and modern indoor environment. However, over the years, it has become clear that the outdoor area is in need of renewal. While the house itself is relatively new, the spacious yard has remained untouched since construction and lacks the feeling of a real home garden — a place for children’s games, family activities, and physical movement.

The new manager and refreshed team of the family house began their work in November last year, bringing with them a fresh perspective and renewed energy. When they read about the Naerata Ometi project funding opportunity, they immediately had several “aha” moments. That’s how the idea of “Family House Yard Renewal” was born — aiming to transform the rather dull and worn-out yard into a cozy, lively, and beloved space where families genuinely enjoy spending time together.

At the moment, both children and adults feel there’s not much to do outside. After winter, the yard feels even more desolate, and many of the teenagers spend most of their time indoors, often in front of computer screens. The new project seeks to change that — to give families back the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, move their bodies, and experience the joy of togetherness.

Currently, the only existing attraction in the yard is an outdated and worn playground.

The Vision

The renewed yard would include a refurbished basketball court, so the teenagers could properly enjoy ball games. The current court is mossy, the surface doesn’t bounce balls, and the backboards and nets need replacing. The family centre, in collaboration with the local municipality, plans to remove a few old trees around the court. It is possible to resurface the area and install a firmer ground cover. (You can see the current view of the court in the image above.)

To add warmth and homeliness, a recreation area with garden furniture and a campfire spot will be created for cozy evenings and conversations. An outdoor kitchen or grill area would allow families to cook and dine together in fresh air. Additionally, they plan to install a hot tub — a great place to cool down in the summer or warm up in the winter.

The yard’s fences will be partially covered with wooden panels or bamboo to ensure more privacy and a homely feel. Right now, the yard is too visible from its surroundings — including the train station, bus terminal, apartment buildings, and a special care home.

Community Commitment

The Kurepesa team is fully committed to bringing this project to life. They will take care of technical project coordination, work with local government specialists, run procurement processes, and actively promote the project in the local community and beyond. They are also ready to cover smaller expenses from their own budget and involve other supporters to make this vision a reality — together.

Supporting this project is more than just making a yard look nice. It’s an investment in children’s well-being. Spending time outside supports mental health, enhances the feeling of home, encourages physical activity, and offers the opportunity to be present — for oneself and for each other.

Dear friends — let’s create more home together. Support the “Family House Yard Renewal” project and give these children the chance to simply be kids — laughing, playing, and enjoying life outdoors.

Summary of Planned Improvements:

• Refurbishment of the basketball court for a safer and more enjoyable sports area

• Creation of a recreational corner with garden furniture and a fire pit

• Outdoor kitchen or grill area for shared cooking and dining

• Playground upgrades – including renovation of the sandbox and slide base

• Hot tub for both summer cooling and winter warming

• Covering fences with wooden panels or bamboo to increase privacy and create a homier atmosphere

We are grateful for support in any of these areas!

How to Help?

Financial support is not the only way to contribute. There are many ways to help make the Kurepesa Family House yard renewal a reality:

🧱 Materials & Tools:

• If you have spare or affordable building materials (paving stones, wood, screws, gloves, fence panels, etc.), every donation is a big help.

🪑 Furniture & Equipment:

• Garden furniture or fire pits — gently used and in good condition can help create a cozy family corner.

• Sports equipment — balls, basketball hoops, or outdoor gym equipment to encourage activity.

• Outdoor games and toys — suitable for both younger children and teens.

📣 Spread the Word:

• Help find supporters — share the project with your friends, family, and community.

• Engage companies — if you work for or run a company that could support financially or with materials, we’d love to talk.

💶 Financial Contribution:

• Of course, monetary donations are warmly welcome and help us carry out the bigger parts of the plan faster and more effectively.