I first learned about Rebuilding Together East Bay-North in 1999, when it was "Christmas in April." As a young student of Architecture and Building Science, I was eager to apply my knowledge of buildings to the many homes which were in need of repairs.
The volunteer work has been incredibly rewarding. RTEBN has allowed hundreds of income-qualified homeowners who are seniors, Veterans, and people with disabilities, remain in their homes, and live safely and comfortably. The work often saves energy and water, which means financial savings for these people as well.
Sometimes the repairs performed save lives. In the process of assessing the homes, often dangerous things are uncovered, such as electrical sparking, overloaded circuits, gas leaks, plumbing leaks that create mold, or carbon monoxide leaks that endanger the lives of the residents. RTEBN takes care of all of these emergency repairs, sometimes during the assessment itself.
RTEBN also provides a social service check during home assessments. Having qualified volunteers, who can look for signs of elder abuse, financial abuse, or other issues, makes RTEBN unique among these kinds of home repair services. This commitment of all of its staff, board members, hundreds volunteers, and corporate and community partners to an ethical, free service, ensures my continued support of this organization.
Review from Guidestar