Every year in all 50 states, over a million people come together to rehabilitate homes that have come under disrepair. This project is called Rebuilding Together, and Valparaiso has had an active chapter since 1990. Usually the houses that are chosen for repair belong to those who cannot repair the houses themselves because of physical or economic limitations.
When I was first asked to help I was in High School and our local Key Club sent some students to help with the project. It was amazing to see the community come together to help those in need. Individuals and local businesses had donated mulch, tools, roofing materials, and more for the particular house I was working at. More importantly however was all of the people there donating their time. The more experience volunteers started on the roof while the rest of us began painting, landscaping, and cleaning the house.
I really want to encourage everyone to participate in this project. It's projects like these that can really help a community bond. We're all in this life together, and Rebuilding Together helps remind me of what's really important.
Any questions regarding the event can be referred to the Valparaiso Rebuilding Together Website or to Jon Groth