Building Industry Association Renovates Cooper House Community Room

The Building Industry Association of the Red River Valley (BIA-RRV), along with our dedicated volunteers, recently completed a renovation of the community room at Cooper House, a supportive housing facility in Fargo. 

This project was a true community effort. Our members lead the transformation of the space from top to bottom — installing new flooring, lighting, cabinetry and making a variety of other updates — to create a welcoming, functional space for residents. Materials and expertise were donated by local area businesses within the BIA. 

This renovation honors the memory of Mike Beaton, a former Cooper House resident who passed away last year, always wished for the community room to be a place where residents could come together to watch movies, share a meal and build connections. Mike's sister, a member of the BIA, said the project has been especially meaningful to her. 

"It is my goal to make sure his (Mike) wish comes true" said Nancy Kelly. 

Cooper house has been serving the Fargo-Moorhead community since 2010, providing transitional housing and essential services for the individuals experiencing homelessness. Residents have access to computer workstations, onsite laundry facilities, a 24-hour front desk and an onsite nurse. Rent is based on 30% of residents' adjusted gross income and applicants are selected through the Coordinated Entry system. 

We are proud to have completed this project by Friday, April 25, 2025 and to continue our commitment to supporting meaningful causes in our community. Through projects like these, the Building Industry Association of the Red River Valley strives to create positive, lasting impacts for individuals and families across the region.