Reality TV shows like Extreme Makeover: Home Edition may make overnight home transformations seem like a new concept. But the organization Rebuilding Together has been at it now for almost 20 years—and even longer for some of its affiliates. For thousands of volunteers around the country, the last Saturday in April was National Rebuilding Day. It’s powered entirely by goodwill – skilled and unskilled donate their labor, and both businesses and individuals sponsor the home repairs of those in need. This year, the Metro Chicago affiliate rehabbed 73 homes. Jennifer Brandel was there with one homeowner who experienced the power of Rebuilding… Together.

Rebuilding Together Piece This is my first try at producing a piece in first person narrative. A little shaky, yes. But a start. I ended up spending the summer of 2007 working for this organization and directing their first annual fundraiser because I liked what they do so much.