Our second Project 33 transformation was one that touched every single person involved.
Joni and Glenn were nominated after experiencing the unimaginable loss of their 16-year-old son, Kennie, who was tragically murdered just one street away from their family home.
No parent should ever have to endure the heartbreak of losing a child.
The devastating impact of Kennie's death affected every part of family life. Like so many families living with profound grief, everyday tasks became overwhelming. Their home had become a place overshadowed by grief, where even everyday life felt incredibly difficult to navigate.
When we met Joni and Glenn, it wasn't simply a decorated home they needed.
They needed hope.
Joni at home, surrounded by memories of Kennie.
By this point, Project 33 had started to gather momentum, and once again, the community responded with incredible kindness.
A GoFundMe campaign was launched, raising around £5,000, alongside many other generous donations from local people and businesses. Hundreds of people came together to support the family. Volunteers gave up their weekends, tradespeople donated their skills, and companies stepped forward with materials, furniture and services, all wanting to play a part in helping this remarkable family.
Together, we transformed their living room, kitchen, hallway and garden, creating warm, welcoming spaces where the family could begin making new memories while still honouring the son they loved so deeply.
The living room
BeforeAfter
The kitchen
BeforeAfter
BeforeAfter
One of the most meaningful parts of the project was creating a beautiful memorial garden for Kennie, a peaceful place where his family could sit, reflect and feel close to him. It became far more than a garden; it became a place of remembrance, love and comfort.
Watching Joni and Glenn walk back into their transformed home was an emotional moment for everyone involved.
It wasn't about forgetting Kennie.
Nothing ever could.
It was about showing a grieving family that they were surrounded by people who cared. It was about reminding them that even in the darkest moments, kindness can shine through.
Kennie's memory
Kennie's memory will always be part of Project 33's story. This project showed the true power of community. Hundreds of people, many of whom had never met the family, came together with one shared purpose, to let Joni and Glenn know they were not alone.
Sometimes we can't take away someone's pain.
But we can stand beside them, honour the people they've lost, and help them find a little light when life feels at its darkest.
That is exactly what this project meant to all of us.
Kennie's memory will always live on, not only in the hearts of those who loved him, but in the kindness and compassion that brought an entire community together in his honour.
