09/01/2007 
Editorial
Volunteer to help build and repair area homes 

What better thing is there to do on a September day than work up a sweat - by volunteering with Rebuilding Together Saratoga County? 

This is a terrific organization whose volunteers do the basics of building and repairing homes for people who can't afford to get the work done themselves. It's the type of assistance that too easily falls between the cracks in government aid. 

How many sites are tackled will depend on how many volunteers are available at the time of their fall workday, Saturday, Sept. 15. 

You don't have to be an expert on construction to help out. Capable leaders can direct the more construction-challenged volunteers.

Another option can be having your workplace sponsor a site by paying for materials and or providing a work crew. Depending upon the site, the donation could range from $2,000 to $5,000.

If looking at homes is more of your thing, the annual Showcase of Homes is coming up. You get to tour beautiful area homes through the Saratoga Builders Association, with proceeds from ticket sales going to local charities. Last year, RTSC received $25,000 from this event.

Volunteering to greet people on the tour is another easy way to help RTSC and have fun. Each shift is only three hours and you get a free ticket to take the tour yourself. The event dates are Sept. 29 and 30, and Oct. 6, 7, 13, and 14.

In just four short years as an affiliate of the national organization Rebuilding Together, the Saratoga group, has made a tremendous difference.

It has already undertaken some 30 projects this year, including a number of roofs, floor replacement, sheetrock repair, painting, window and door replacements and plumbing. In some cases homeowners and their families worked alongside the volunteers.

For more information or to send donations, call 695-3315 or contact Rebuilding Together Saratoga County, P.O. Box 98, Schuylerville, NY 12871. Or go to the Web site rebuildingtogethersaratoga.com. Also, mark your calendar for the fall fund-raising dinner and auction at the Elks Club on Nov. 8.

©The Saratogian 2007

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