DAYTON — Rebuilding Together Dayton, a non-profit organization that assists low-income homeowners safely rehabilitate their homes, held its 23rd annual Rebuilding Day event Saturday.
The organization helped 10 homeowners from the Carillon neighborhood near the University of Dayton campus receive $200,000 in free home renovations.
According to a press release, the average homeowner served is 74 years old and lives on $17,362 annually.
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The event is always held on the last Saturday in April in honor of National Rebuilding Day.
Last year, volunteers performed 637 repairs for 223 residents in more than 150 homes across Montgomery County.
Amy Radachi, president and CEO, said more than 600 volunteers from local businesses and colleges participated this year.
The Greater Dayton RTA has participated for the past 6 years and donates space for the organization’s office staff downtown.
"Having RTA as a partner allows us to leverage our resources to help even more homeowners in need," said Radachi. "By providing us donated office space, this tells the community that their donations go even further to making a difference. At Rebuilding Together Dayton, every dollar donated generates another $4 of in-kind support."
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This year, the RTA sponsored a home in the 200 block of Smith Street.
Employees and their family members worked on safety and functionality repairs, including handrail and fence installation, and kitchen cabinet repair.
"By supporting an organization like Rebuilding Together Dayton and its mission, we are finding additional ways to support the very community whose transportation needs we serve daily," said Nathan Owens, business development specialist and RTA representative on the board for the non-profit.
Volunteers from Booz Allen Hamilton and AFIT students from WPAFB replaced siding, repaired plumbing issues, and installed handrails to a home.
The UD football team and Alpha Phi Omega fraternity members demolished three garages and removed graffiti.
The Carroll High School girls' lacrosse team also volunteered.
"These residents are beyond delighted to receive this help and be able to age and live safely in their homes," said Radachi.
For more information about Rebuilding Together Dayton, visit www.rtdayton.org.