Tuesday, January 27, 2004

Tools to make a difference
Saratoga Springs -- Group called Rebuilding Together to repair homes of low-income, elderly and disabled persons 
 
By KATHLEEN DOOLEY, Staff writer
First published: Tuesday, January 27, 2004
 
Rebuilding Together, a national volunteer-based program to repair and rehabilitate the homes of low income, elderly and disabled homeowners, has begun a chapter in Saratoga County.
 
Michelle Larkin, chapter president, said as a church youth leader she brought groups of teens to repair homes for the elderly and low-income groups in different areas of the United States.

"It was a great experience but we knew there must be projects and people needing help in our own back yard," she said.

Members of the Presbyterian-New England Congregational Church met and the affiliate incorporated in December.

"I'm amazed at the caring and compassion of the people on our board," said Larkin, adding that many are getting involved in fund-raising.

The chapter plans to undertake five to seven projects this year. The goal is to finish the work during the weekend of April 24-25 to coincide with the national organization's National Rebuilding Day.

Volunteers get together that weekend around the country to repair and rehabilitate homes and work at nonprofit community centers. Unskilled volunteers join with skilled tradespeople to paint, clean, weatherize and do carpentry, plumbing and electrical work.

Larkin said referrals for assistance have been coming in. Board members have been visiting potential work sites and are working with different agencies such as the Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council and local churches to find candidates.

"We're seeing people with floors that are so bad, you can see the ground, or their walls have holes in them," she said.

Roofs are a problem. And many residences need bathroom work and painting. Generally, the elderly requiring assistance have been unable to perform the necessary maintenance work on their homes.

In 2003, almost 250 Rebuilding Together affiliates fixed up more 8,050 houses and nonprofit community centers.

Since an average project is estimated to cost from $3,000 to $3,500, an organization may sponsor an entire project or individuals may help by donating money or materials.

"It's everybody working together in a community spirit and camaraderie. It's more than just helping your neighbor," Larkin said.

"There's a lot of need right here and the people who want to help. Donations have already come in and we expect to seek help from businesses," said Marian Bigelow, committee chairperson.

Workers, sponsors, donations of materials and funds are being sought.