ST. LOUIS — Since 2006, French Gerleman’s St. Louis team has been a part of Rebuilding Together’s annual Rebuilding Day – a day dedicated to helping low-income families in the community. Every year Rebuilding Together chooses households whose members are unable to perform needed home projects themselves due to low income, illness and other factors.
This year French Gerleman was partnered with a family in Maryland Heights, Missouri, in need of many home updates to improve their safety and general quality of life. Unfortunately, the homeowner was unable to keep up with them due to suffering from multiple sclerosis. The team was able to accomplish a variety of projects with only minor setbacks, and within the day make an impact that will help the family going forward.
Since Rebuilding Together is only a single day, it’s important to have a well-organized team of volunteers to make sure as much can be done for the families as possible. This year, French Gerleman’s Nicole Wagner organized a team of 11 volunteers as a second year Volunteer Coordinator.
“We had 11 hardworking volunteers and we were finished by 3:00 p.m.!” says Nicole. “We had many new people on the team this year, so it was a good way to get people out of the office and interacting face to face. Everyone worked on their tasks to complete a successful day. The projects help foster relationships with coworkers who they may not typically work with at the office.”
The House Captain this year, Bob Anderson, has been participating in Rebuilding Day for many years. No matter who the team is comprised of each year, he says the motivation to make a positive impact remains the same.
“The volunteers want to make a difference in our community and make a direct impact on the lives of the homeowners we help,” said Anderson. “Being able to have a relationship and discussion with the homeowners, you begin to emulate their excitement for the work to be done. They are truly thankful for the help we provide and are appreciative of the work done. It always feels good to be needed and appreciated, especially when you’re doing something to make a difference.”
Learn more about Rebuilding Together – St Louis.
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