'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition' Special Report

Michigan State University has joined on as a primary partner for Mayberry Homes for an upcoming “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” project that will take place in Holt, Mich. from Sept. 26 through Oct. 3.

Mayberry will build a house for a family within a few days time for the hit show which is hosted by Ty Pennington and airs Sundays at 8 p.m. on ABC.

Arlene Nickless and her three sons were surprised by Pennington and his crew the morning of Sept. 26 and were told they were chosen by the popular TV show to have their home rebuilt. Tim Nickless, Arlene's husband and the boys' father, passed away in January.

A normal build for the show requires more than 100 hours, thousands of volunteers and donated materials.

As a partner on the project, MSU will offer support in many ways, including providing large groups of volunteers. Because of the overwhelming response, the project is no longer actively seeking official volunteers. Donations of funds are still being sought.  Visit the Mayberry Homes Web site to donate at www.mayberryhomesextreme.com.

Though the project has enough volunteers, spectators at the site will be welcome throughout the project. MSU organizations, groups, students, staff, faculty and alumni are encouraged to visit the site to cheer on the workers and show their Spartan pride!

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” which has won back-to-back Emmy Awards as Best Reality Program (noncompetitive), is entering its 6th season on ABC. The program is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. Anthony Dominici is the executive producer; and David Goldberg is the president of Endemol USA.