Hanson Builders Celebrates Donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
On May 6, 2026, Hanson Builders hosted a remarkable check-signing event at their Andover office, commemorating their record donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The event marked a significant milestone as the company presented a check for
$1.23 million – the largest contribution ever made from a St. Jude Dream Home® Showplace.
A Testament to Community Collaboration
The donation was not the result of one company’s efforts in isolation. JD Hanson, CEO of Hanson Builders, emphasized that this achievement was a collaborative effort involving trade partners, suppliers, and dedicated team members who united behind a vital cause. “This $1.23 million donation represents what we can accomplish when we come together in support of St. Jude,” he stated, showcasing not only the company’s commitment to corporate responsibility but also the broader community spirit.
The Dream Home Initiative
The St. Jude Dream Home initiative is a nationwide program designed to benefit the lifesaving work of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. This particular home was the first of its kind built in Minnesota and was crafted for both luxury and comfort. With features like ten-foot ceilings, wooden beams, a vaulted sunroom, and a sports center, the home exemplified exquisite craftsmanship. Well-known brands such as Marvin® Windows, Bosch®, and Thermador® contributed premium finishes that underscored the quality of the construction.
Hanson Builders broke ground on this important project in November 2024, dedicating their resources to create a home that would not only serve its buyers but also fund critical cancer research and child care services at St. Jude.
Milestones Achieved
In August 2025, JD Hanson, alongside Maple Grove Mayor Mark Steffenson and other dignitaries, officially cut the ribbon on the uniquely designed home. The public had the opportunity to tour the Dream Home during the Fall and Spring Parade of Homes®, generating excitement and anticipation in the community. With the sale of the home complete, Hanson Builders expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to this monumental endeavor.
St. Jude's Lifesaving Work
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital plays an integral role in Battling childhood cancers and other life-threatening diseases. Established in 1962, the hospital has transformed how the world understands and treats pediatric ailments. It is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center dedicated solely to children, boasting a remarkable improvement in survival rates from 20% to more than 80% over the decades. Families dealing with these horrific diagnoses will never see a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing, or food, allowing them to focus on their child’s recovery.
Final Thoughts
The event at Hanson Builders was more than just a check-signing; it symbolized hope, collaboration, and the power of community in the fight against childhood cancer. As St. Jude continues its mission to find cures and save children, initiatives like these highlight how together we can all contribute to a better future.
For more information on Hanson Builders’ community projects and their ongoing commitment to quality in home building, visit
hansonbuilders.com. To learn more about St. Jude and support their mission, visit
stjude.org.