The Brown Street project is more than just a house restoration, it is a tribute to my good friend Alexander Childers who died unexpectedly. It is a conscious act of giving in his honor. It is about helping those in need and building a bridge between communities.

Alexander owned a General Contracting business called Magnum Opus Builders. A Magnum Opus is the greatest achievement of an artist or writer, and Alexander, though a contractor by trade, was truly an artist. Alexander never took work only for money but rather for the love of helping people build beautiful things. Like most artists, he wanted to change how people see the world. He was involved in many arts charities and helped friends and strangers alike. Most notably, for fifteen years he was the “go to guy” for one homeless man, giving him money, jobs or food when he needed it. He never had children but was a father figure for many, always employing those in need, saving lost souls and befriending many single mothers who needed support. Alexander always lived life to the fullest, as if it were a real celebration to be alive and he lived his true purpose.

In Alexander’s spirit, the Brown Street Project is designed to bring together a community of people to build something beautiful, a Magnum Opus. Like Alexander, I hope some will see the world differently or will learn how to reach out and help others. I want people to learn to value their own life and realize that they were created for a purpose meant to be discovered and followed. By doing so, they will inevitably help others see the world differently.

Alexander’s homeless friend, Dennis, was living in the house for over a year before construction. At the end of the project, the house will be available as affordable housing for a single mother in need because that is what Alexander would have wanted.

Brown Street Project is a not-for-profit project. I have personally financed the purchase of the property and taken care of all related expenses. I am looking for volunteers to help with all types of construction, including demolition, carpentry, plumbing, electric, painting and landscaping. Bring your skills or learn new ones. No experience necessary, just a desire to give and share in a community effort of love. If you don’t want to get dirty but you like to talk on the phone, we need your help, too. Volunteers are needed to make phone calls to locate building materials and perform other tasks. I am also welcoming donations of any size to offset construction costs.

Come restore your spirit and be a part of our Magnum Opus!

Please sign up to volunteer or email us.

Send check or money order payable to "Brown Street Project"
Brown Street Project
1555 Sherman Ave. Suite 132
Evanston, IL 60201
ph. 847.424.9700

or donate via Paypal using