Frequently Asked Questions
Who do we help?
Rebuilding Together Greater Los Angeles provides assistance to low-income people who own their own home but who, because of physical or financial limitation, are not able to cover the costs of home repair. Typically, these individuals are older adults, people with disabilities and families with small children are also eligible for our services you can count on.
When do we work?
We work year round through our semi-annual rebuilding days held the last Saturdays of April and October.
How does it work?
Rebuilding Together is based in principal on the concept of an old-fashioned barn raising with as many as 100 skilled and unskilled volunteers assigned to a particular project. Homeowners are frequently amazed at the sheer number of people who give up a day to come out and lend them a helping hand. They are even more amazed at the massive amount of work that can be accomplished by caring volunteers in a short period of time.
Why does it work?
Rebuilding Together does more with less. For every dollar donated, additional dollars are leveraged in the form of donated materials, funds, and services. It works because neighbors helping neighbors build safer and stronger communities.
Who sponsors Rebuilding Together?
Funding comes from corporate sponsors, individuals, local businesses, labor organizations, foundations, civic organizations and religious groups interested in helping to build a better community. Ten dollars from a grateful recipient is just as important as large grants from corporations.
How widespread is Rebuilding Together?
There are approximately 250 affiliates serving over 865 cities and communities nationwide. Collectively, each year we complete 9,000-10,000 projects.
What is the national impact of the organization?
As the largest volunteer home rehabilitation organization in America with affiliates in 865 cities and towns in all 50 states, Rebuilding Together has rehabilitated over 100,000 houses and nonprofit facilities across the United States. At the end of 2007, more than 3 million volunteers had committed their time and effor. Rebuilding Together has delivered more than $1 billion in market value.
What is the local impact of the organization?
Founded in 2007, Rebuilding Together Greater Los Angeles is now just getting started. By May of 2008, we had completed 5 projects. We are gaining momentum, so keep checking back to see what else we have accomplished.
How are homeowners selected?
The selection process takes place locally. Qualified homeowners are low income, often, older adults, people with disabilities or families with young children who are unable to make needed repairs themselves. Referrals come from a variety of sources including nonprofit agencies, city code enforcement, the police department, social service organizations, churches, synagogues, and individuals. Applications are accepted year round. Our volunteer site selection team reviews each application, schedules site visits, and homeowner interviews. The homeowners? level of need, the difficulty of the repairs, and our limited resources are all taken into account when selecting qualified homes. Should we be unable to serve the homeowner, alternative service listings will be provided to them.
Is there a charge for Rebuilding Together's services?
No. All repairs are done free of charge to the homeowner. Our work is done with families, not for them. Homeowners and family members are asked to participate as extensively as possible in the rehabilitation of their home. Rebuilding Together retains no ownership or interest in the improved property.
How extensive are the repairs?
Skilled trades people join with the unskilled volunteers to accomplish painting, cleaning, weatherizing, carpentry, plumbing and electrical work. A licensed contractor does all roof work. While we believe that all tasks will be performed in a reasonable manner, we do not provide or express warranties or guarantees for the work performed. Our organization is strictly made of volunteers; therefore the work is done with a lot of heart. We are not able to perform structural repairs such as foundation work or termite damage. Nor are we able to install sprinkler systems or carpeting.
Is my contribution tax-deductible?
Yes. All contributions are tax-deductible. Contributions can be sent to: Rebuilding Together Greater Los Angeles, 8621 Bellance Ave Suite 211, Los Angeles, CA 90045. An acknowledgement and receipt will be provided for your tax records. You may also donate on-line.
How can I contact the organization?
Locally, contact the Rebuilding Together Greater Los Angeles at (310) 645-6500 or write to 8621 Bellanca Ave Suite 211, Los Angeles, CA 90045 or email us at Info@RTGLA.org.
Nationally, contact the Rebuilding Together, Inc., 1536 Sixteenth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036-1402, or call (800) 4-REHAB-9. Or visit them RebuildingTogether.org.
I can't find something on the website. What should I do?
Shoot us an e-mail to Webmaster@RTGLA.org telling us your problem or how we can improve the website to better serve your needs.
