Genesee homeowner Victoria is enjoying the improvements to her home thanks to a team of Seattle City Light and McKinstry employees who volunteered at Rebuilding Together Seattle’s Spring Rebuilding Day on April 27.
In one day, the energetic volunteers and family members installed a new structural support beam, replaced a leaky water heater with a high-efficiency unit, repainted two interior rooms, removed debris from the basement, repaired and replaced plumbing in the kitchen and bathroom, and installed new appliances. Outside the home, teams removed blackberry bushes and other outgrown plants, mowed and trimmed the yard, and rebuilt a deteriorating vegetable garden.
Every year, on the last Saturday in April, Rebuilding Together Seattle partners with its sponsors and more than 1,500 volunteers to repair 25 homes in one day. Volunteers work on their own time to make a significant difference at no cost to the homeowner. Rebuilding Together Seattle is committed to bringing volunteers and communities together to help low-income homeowners live in warmth, safety, and independence. That mission is in line with Seattle City Light’s employee volunteer program, which focuses on assistance to low-income customers and environmental stewardship projects.
“The work ethic of everyone who volunteered was unbelievable and was only matched by the amount that was accomplished in a short amount of time,“ said City Light volunteer, Carol Butler.” Everyone who participated must have left with a sore body but a joyful heart.”
Emily Burns, another City Light volunteer, said it is “amazing what a group of dedicated folks can accomplish. Our landscaping team quickly got to work cleaning up the yard of debris and invasive plants. Organized team leaders added to our ability to work efficiently. By the end of the day, three raised bed gardens were installed and the site was easily maintainable. The house and fences were cleared of destructive vines to help protect for the years to come.
“It was truly a gift for my daughter and me to be able to give a few hours and observe the immeasurable accomplishments of providing this family with support to make life a little easier. Thank you Rebuild Together Seattle for making this possible!”
To donate to or learn more about Rebuilding Together Seattle, visit their website.