I tend to volunteer for environmental organizations because that is my professional field. I was recruited to work on a planting project a few years ago that was a RTTC project and they passed out a questionniare about volunteering in a home repair capacity. I am also very handy around the house and I had been looking for an organization that had a more immediate impact on people in my community. Environmetal work, especially planting, has a long return. RTTC seemed like a perfect fit so I filled out the questionniare and later was recruited for the Safe At Home program.
One of the easiest decisions I ever made was getting involved with Rebuilding Together-Twin Cities. The mission is very appealing and rewarding; providing direct help and assistance to people in need so they may stay in their homes and lead productive lives. Our work covers a variety of demographics and communities but all have a common need - to be warm and safe. As our populations are aging so is the housing and even in good economic times this is a challenge for many people. Rebuilding Together brings all the pieces together. Donors, sponsors, volunteers and people in need.
I have volunteered for Rebuilding Together Twin Cities since April of 2008. It has become a very important part of my life because I can help people directly in their homes, and I know that I am helping them live with more safety and security. I do several things with RTTC, depending on their needs. Everything I do has both helped the organization and helped me gain new skills and confidence after my recent job loss. Specifically, I work with Safe at Home, where we install grab bars, railings, smoke and CO alarms, window and door locks, etc- anything that will help older adults or those living with a disability be safer in their home. I went from just watching others do the instalation to being able to do it myself. I also work with the home repair program, where we do extensive repairs on homes. It really helps the families because due to circumstances beyond their control, they can´t afford or do the repairs themselves. I have gained a lot of skills (I installed a faucet!), and have also been given some leadership roles with the program. I also help out in other ways, such as data entry, preparation and cleanup after projects (I specialize in cleaning paint brushes). I love working with RTTC and will continue to do so for many years to come. They are particularly good at making sure that I feel appreciated, which is excellent because that´s the ¨payment¨a volunteer receives.