“It is our privilege to create these beautiful places—not just houses, but homes,” says Ogden resident Steve Pierce (founder/CEO of Pierce Design+Build). As a leading homebuilding and design firm in Northern Utah, Pierce Design+Build brings award-winning custom homes, remodels, and additions to Weber, Morgan, Cache, Davis, and Summit counties. With over three decades of experience, the team helps clients bring their ideas to life through expert craftsmanship and engagement throughout the homebuilding and design process.
As a leader in the homebuilding industry, Pierce believes in giving back to the community. Just over two years ago, Steve was contacted by the Northern Wasatch Homebuilders Association, where he previously served as president. He was asked to come look at a house that had been selected for remodel for a family and their daughter with special needs.
He met the Griffin family, who love camping, playing games, sports, hiking, and going on adventures. Their amazing 18-year-old daughter, Christi, requires a high level of continuous care after experiencing two brain injuries. One injury occurred before birth and a second at seven years old. With the constant care of her loving family, Christi progressed to speaking, singing, and even riding a bike. She loved music, swimming, memorizing songs, and school. However, the second brain injury left Christi unable to see, speak, or move. She retained some hearing but is completely dependent on her family for care.
Through a series of miracles—including a family friend submitting their name at the Northern Wasatch Parade of Homes to win a home remodel—the Griffin family was able to connect with Steve Pierce. They discussed remodeling the existing home to be wheelchair accessible and adding a room for Christi that would allow her to be with the family without being carried up and down steep stairs. However, due to the age of the home, structural components, and several burst pipes, Steve said, “What we need to do is drop the house and build a new one.”
After considering the complexity of the project, Steve chose to have his company take on the build as a charitable project. Reflecting on that decision, he shared, “Through a series of experiences and a whisper of inspiration, this project felt right and good.” From that moment on, Steve and his company were all in, and The Christi Project was born.
Steve solicited help from the Northern Wasatch Homebuilders Association and the community to raise funds and donate materials and labor. All funds go directly into the charitable foundation. Deana Griffin, Christi’s mother, says, “Steve has hit so many roadblocks with this project, but he never gives up. He has been steadfast through and through and has a heart of gold. He wanted to do this project for Christi and our family.”
The feeling is mutual. Steve says, “They always call me and ask, ‘How can we help? What can we do?’ They are willing to participate and give whatever they can, despite the tremendous load they have in caring for their family and Christi’s 24/7 care.”
As for Christi, she still loves music and hearing the voices of her family and friends. Simple things bring her joy—like funny noises. “Christi is brave, resilient, and humble. She had to give up everything. She is a fighter and completely relies on other people, which is difficult. She is my hero. You can feel her spirit,” says Deana.
The Christi Project is a labor of love and is still underway as fundraising continues. If you would like to donate, please visit piercedesignbuild.co/the-christi-project or follow the build on Instagram @piercedesignbuild using #TheChristiProject.
After considering the complexity of the project, Steve chose to have his company take on the build as a charitable project.