The “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” design team discovered there was a whole lot of shaking going on in Neenah, Wisconsin when they met Rhex Arboleda. Rhex is a hometown hero who has distinguished himself by locally leading the movement to banish the childhood obesity epidemic. In 2004 he created “Move to the Groove,” a dance program designed to get both teachers and students on their feet and in shape. Rhex’s award-winning dance program is currently being used in three elementary schools where health and wellness is a priority. Ironically Rhex’s own health and wellness, and that of his family, is compromised by the state of the 70-year-old home they live in.
Rhex and his wife, Claire, came to America eight years ago from the Philippines to pursue the American dream. To show his appreciation to the country that provided him a better opportunity, Rhex has committed his life to teaching. Filled five energetic kids ranging in age from 2-10, the modest two-bedroom, one bath Arboleda house is always churning with excitement. Like their dad, the children share an appreciation of the arts — CJ (10), Clarenx (8), Calix (6), Cullen (4) and Rhex Jr (2) frequently break into song and just brim with joy and humor.
On August 14th, the Arboledas got the wake-up call they’d been waiting for when Ty Pennington and the “EMHE” team, together with two-time “Dancing with the Stars” winner Derek Hough (professional dancer), Season 10’s Nicole Scherzinger and Season 7’s Brooke Burke arrived to turn their dreams into reality by giving them enough room to boogie to the beat.
The Arboledas will go on vacation to Walt Disney World, while “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” team leader Ty Pennington, designers Michael Moloney, Paige Hemmis, Xzibit, local builder Lexington Homes and community volunteers rebuild their home.
The location address is: 770 Elm Street Neenah, WI 54956
The series is produced by Endemol USA, of Endemol Holding, and executive-produced by Brady Connell & George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America.