News & Notes
- Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh and Lowe's Team Up to Renovate and Repair a Home in McKeesport
- On Saturday, November 10, twenty eight volunteers dedicated their time and expertise to improve and modify the home of one physically challenged person trying to remain in his home as long as possible. Duane, age 53, suffered a very serious and debilitating stroke six years ago and must rely on a motorized wheel chair to navigate the interior and exterior of his home. While a ramp was added to the home several years ago, the lumber was not treated and all the surface boards were warped and deteriorated. In addition, the interior of the home did not allow for easy access in his wheelchair and there were not adequate grab bars and railings that would ensure safety and ease of navigation.
A team of volunteers managed by Board Member David Matta completed $20,000 in renovations in one day including wall and ceiling repairs throughout, new commode and vanity, new flooring, painting in every room, new lighting, modifications, new ramp decking, plumbing, roofing, landscaping and the installation of 6 smoke detectors and CO detectors. Duane, the homeowner, commented, "Never in a million years would I have expected so many strangers to come to my home to do all this work for me". A total of 260 volunteer hours were donated during this one day event.
Additionally, Operating Engineers Local #66 will be replacing the sidewalk and curb apron in front of Duane's house. Duane and his wife do not own a car and when Duane needs to go somewhere, he usually rides his wheelchair and his wife takes the bus. The crumbled and dangerous sidewalk in his front yard makes it nearly impossible to get anywhere once he does get outside.
This project, made possible through a $1 million grant from Lowe's, is one of 42 Rebuilding Together affiliates awarded a grant following Lowe's annual Swing for Charity, golf event hosted by the company. "Lowe's is in the business of helping people improve and maintain their homes", said Larry Stone, chairman of the Lowe's Charitable and Education Foundation. "We are proud to partner with Rebuilding Together to renovate and modify homes for some of our community's most vulnerable residents and Lowe's shares Rebuilding Together's commitment to create a safe and comfortable environment to accommodate a homeowner's special needs."
Homeownership is under threat today in America and RTP is working to preserve homeownership, one of the most important elements of stability and sustainability in our communities.
Thank you to all the volunteers who participated in this workday including representatives from Lowe's in Munhall, Giant Eagle, local carpenters, Cillo Plumbing, Allstate Builders and Remodelers, Boy Scout Troop #679 from Elizabeth Township and our Occupational Therapists. - Jefferson Award
- Jim Restivo, an established attorney in Pittsburgh, was recently presented with the Community Champions Jefferson Award for his volunteer work. Jim has served as a board member, volunteer and donor for Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh for many years.
Congratulations & Thank You Jim! - North Shore Club Noir Fundraising Event
- Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh would like to thank Presenting Sponsors Meyer, Unkovic & Scott LLP, Thorp Reed & Armstong LLP and Reed Smith LLP for hosting the North Shore Club Noir fundraising event on July 13, 2007.
Guests enjoyed good food, music, a gaming area, strolling entertainment, a silent auction and great raffle prizes. Proceeds from the event help to support Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh's Operation Urgent Care Program which helps low-income senior citizens with critical home repairs throughout the year.
