As a contribution to the youth of San Diego, William Lyon Homes has been working with the Child Abuse Prevention Foundation and HomeAid San Diego since late 2002 to create Mary's House -- North County's first living facility designed to transition former foster youth ages 18-24 into independent adult life.

Mary's House, named after community leader Mary Goodall for her outstanding service in the area of child abuse prevention, is located on an 8-acre parcel of land in Escondido. The six-bedroom house was completely restructured to include modern amenities such as a gourmet kitchen with center island workstation and computer media center. During their stay at Mary's House the young women will be taught important life skills such as how to cook, manage a personal budget and find jobs.

William Lyon Homes served as the builder captain on the four-month renovation project, volunteering hundreds of hours and managing other volunteer subcontractors. As a company hallmark, William Lyon Homes maintains an active charitable involvement in many of communities where they build homes. The company's community of Hidden Trails is currently selling in Escondido.

"Every year thousands of young people reach the age where they are required to leave foster care and find their own places to live. Sadly, the outcome of those 'aging out' is well-documented and grim. That's why the creation of Mary's House was so important," said Larry I. Smith, San Diego division president of William Lyon Homes.

"We enjoyed putting our construction expertise and skills to work on the project, and are proud to be a part of something that supports and encourages San Diego's foster youth."

The Child Abuse Prevention Foundation will continue to support the project by securing funds for startup costs and program services. HomeAid San Diego is one of 21 chapters of HomeAid America, the nation's largest provider of shelter beds for the temporarily homeless.

William Lyon Homes is led with the personal commitment and nearly 50 years' experience of General William Lyon. He's widely praised in the industry as a forward-thinking home builder with an old-fashioned view of customer service, and as a gentleman whose character and ethics are always evident in his work.

General Lyon entered the building industry in the 1940s as a joint venture with his father and brother, and with a simple goal -- to build quality homes that offer the greatest value in the most desirable locations. That, coupled with a strong commitment to customer service, paved the way to decades of success for the company.

Headquartered in Newport Beach, William Lyon Homes has more than 50 current sales locations throughout California, Arizona and Nevada. The company has built and sold more than 118,000 homes and managed more than 10,000 apartment residences. In addition to numerous industry awards, William Lyon Homes has gained a reputation for fine craftsmanship, attention to detail and affordability. William Lyon Homes also provides mortgage financing and title services to its home buyers through its subsidiaries and joint ventures, Duxford Financial Inc.

Submitted by William Lyon Homes.