Jeff Gilbert, founder of Hope for Tomorrow, has been working from the architectural drawings for months and is finally seeing his vision come to fruition. Built in 1857, the latest Hope for Tomorrow home, in downtown Aurora, will house up to 15 struggling veterans and is expected to open this fall. | Michele du Vair~For Sun-Times Media

Amy Attenbern, executive director of Rebuild Together Aurora, paints in the kitchen of the future Hope for Tomorrow home in downtown Aurora on Saturday, May 19, 2012. The historic home is expected to open this fall and can house up to 15 veterans suffering from war-related trauma and substance abuse. | Michele du Vair~For Sun-Times Media

A trio of flags flown from the future Hope for Tomorrow home in downtown Aurora, symbolizes the patriotism and respect for the home's future residents. Expected to open this fall, as many as 15 struggling veterans can soon be housed in the historic, 3800-square-foot home. | Michele du Vair~For Sun-Times Media

Janet Gilbert, of Batavia, puts the finishing touches on landscaping installed at the future Hope for Tomorrow Home in Aurora on Saturday, May 19, 2012. When finished, the hisoric home will have seven bedrooms and house up to 15 veterans suffering from physical and psychological challenges. | Michele du Vair~For Sun-Times Media

Built in 1857, the future Hope for Tomorrow house, in Aurora, is currently being restored to its former glory. Expected to be open this fall, the home will feature seven bedrooms and house up to 15 veterans suffering from war-borne trauma and substance abuse. | Michele du Vair~For Sun-Times Media

Supplies line the entry of the future Hope for Tomorrow house in downtown Aurora. The historic 3,800-square-foot home will soon house up to 15 veterans suffering from war-borne trauma and substance abuse. | Michele du Vair~For Sun-Times Media