Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is eligible to receive assistance?

Rebuilding Together * Valparaiso provides assistance to those who own their own home but are not able to repair their homes because of physical and/or financial difficulties. These include disabled, elderly, or low income residents. We will also assist nonprofit facilities. Some of our criteria for assistance are:

• Must live within the Valparaiso city limits.
• Must be owner occupied.
• House cannot be used for rental property.
• Mobile home must be on permanent foundation.
• House must be insurable.
• Volunteers must be able to finish a majority of the work in one day.
• Additional selection criteria includes income, status of employment or federal assistance, medical expenses, and disability or disabilities.

Q: When is workday?

Our next workday is Saturday, April 18, 2009.

Q: Who are our sponsors?

Our funding comes from corporate sponsors, local businesses, volunteer organizations, area churches, and individuals who are interested in helping those less fortunate throughout our community.

Q: Just how large is Rebuilding Together?

There are approximately 260 affiliates serving over 700 cities and communities nationwide. Across the country, Rebuilding Together has rehabilitated over 63,000 houses and nonprofit facilities.

Q: What about Rebuilding Together * Valparaiso?

Rebuilding Together * Valparaiso was founded in 1990 under the name of Christmas in April through a partnership between the City of Valparaiso and Valparaiso University. Since then, Rebuilding Together * Valparaiso has rehabbed over 250 homes and non-profits through the efforts of our volunteers and sponsors. Rebuilding Together * Valparaiso averages around 30 homes with over 500 volunteers each year.

Q: How do we choose our homeowners?

Homeowners are low income, elderly, or disabled who are unable to afford or make the needed repairs themselves. Referrals come from a variety of sources, including nonprofit agencies, social service organizations, churches, city departments, and private citizens. Contact or email us for additional information on the requirements for assistance.

Q: Do we charge for the repair work?

No. All repairs are done free of charge to the homeowner. We do not retain any ownership over any of the properties that we repair. However, we do require that homeowners and family members over the age of 16 participate as extensively as possible in the rehabilitation of their home.

Q: How extensive are the repairs and how many homes are done?

Both skilled and unskilled volunteers work on an average of 30-35 homes per year. Work includes roof repair or replacement, plumbing, bathroom remodeling, electrical work, sewer and water service repair or replacement, interior and exterior painting, window and door repair and replacements, floor repair and replacements, and much more. We will also replace old, worn-out appliances such as stoves, hot water heaters, and refrigerators.

Q: Is my contribution tax-deductible?

Yes. All contributions are tax-deductible. Contributions can be sent to: Rebuilding Together * Valparaiso | c/o City Hall | 166 Lincolnway | Valparaiso, Indiana 46383. We will provide you with a letter or copy of our 501-C3 designation for your tax records.

Q: How can I contact Rebuilding Together * Valparaiso?

You can contact us via the address above, call us at (219) 462-1161 or email us. We would love to hear from you.