Rebuilding Together
Washington County
12555 SW 4th Street
Beaverton, OR 97005
Ph: 503.644.4544
Fax: 503.469.0219

History of Rebuilding Together Inc.
formerly Christmas in April USA

In 1973, a group of volunteers in an adult Sunday School class of Bobby Trimble's decided to devote one day in April to repairing the dilapidated homes of low-income, disabled and elderly neighbors in their community of Midland, Texas. One elderly homeowner was so delighted with the results she exclaimed, "Why this is just like Christmas in April!" The idea spread quickly, from city to city across the country.

Rebuilding Together is now a nation-wide effort with headquarters in Washington, D.C., and more than 250 affiliates in all 50 states.

Rebuilding Together programs are dedicated to providing home repair and rehabilitation to low-income homeowners, particularly the elderly and disabled so that they may continue to live in warmth, safety and independence. This help is provided free of charge through the community-wide efforts of hundreds of volunteers.

Rebuilding Together * Washington County, Inc., Oregon
Formerly Christmas in April

In 1993, a coalition of Washington County community organizations, churches, businesses, civic groups and concerned individuals joined forces to form Christmas in April Washington County, a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization. Effective May 1, 2003 Christmas in April * Washington County legally changed its name to Rebuilding Together * Washington County, to more accurately reflect the work we do and the fact that we are a year round program, not only an April event.

Rebuilding Together * Washington County Inc. organizes an annual community-wide home repair and rehabilitation effort each year with the help of volunteers from throughout the county.

Any low-income homeowner living in Washington County may be eligible for help from Rebuilding Together * Washington County. A preference is given to those homeowners who are elderly, disabled or families with dependent children.

Repairs may include carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, painting, handicapped modification, removal of trash, etc. Where appropriate, many of these jobs are done by technically skilled volunteers such as carpenters, electricians, and plumbers.

Homes to be repaired are selected on the basis of need. Various community organizations, civic groups, churches, senior centers, and individuals refer the names of homeowners needing repair to our program for consideration. The houses are inspected and evaluated individually. The selection decisions are based on the evaluation, criterion and the volunteer/resource capacity of Rebuilding Together * Washington County. All work is performed free of charge.

Please call our office at (503) 644-4544 for more information.