Neighbors Helping Neighbors A local nonprofit provides housing repairs for those in need By Matt Larson News headlines always seem to focus on the negative, which really gives us a skewed perspective of reality. Every day people help each other, and do what’s right for each other, without any kind of diabolical personal agenda. Good deeds often go unnoticed, which is why we’d like to put the spotlight on Rebuilding Together East Bay North, located in Berkeley, who have been helping to rebuild our local communities one house at a time in Berkeley, Albany, Emeryville and Richmond. People are living longer these days than ever before, which is great! Except often times their houses don’t have the same healthcare as they do. Rebuilding Together East Bay North, also known as RTEBN, is a nonprofit that provides free rehabilitation and critical repairs to the homes of low-income seniors, disables individuals, and veterans. They also offer repairs for other nonprofits and community organizations like senior centers, schools, medical clinics, and so much more. “I’m sure you’ve seen the TV shows with the ‘big reveal’ when the homeowner is so surprised to see the beautiful transition after the rehab work is completed,” said Dorothy Price, Executive Director of RTEBN. “Well, we have those moments, and those reactions can be priceless.” Finding which home to fix next is certainly a carefully planned process. RTEBN shares information with local social service agencies, public libraries, and agencies that serve the elderly, disabled and veterans, in efforts to receive referrals for neighbors with homes in need of repair. They also receive applications in the mail, through their website and even on their social media pages. As this is all very important work, it can also be just as fulfilling for the RTEBN staff and volunteers as it is for the lucky homeowner. “For me, the best part of this kind of work comes in the middle,” said Price. “In the midst of the work, as it’s being done, it becomes apparent to our volunteers just how much their support means
Contra Costa Marketplace - March 2017
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