Our Story
The need for affordable housing, particularly for older adults and those with disabilities and homes that support aging in place is an ever-growing concern. RTS continues to expand its partnerships with others that are revitalizing neighborhoods, improving homes, preventing falls, and reducing energy use.
Our History
In 1991, Rebuilding Together Sacramento started as “Christmas in April” when it joined the national network of affiliates, led by Bob and Nancy Tate. That year, more than 70 volunteers came together and repaired the home of an elderly woman with disabilities. Volunteers reroofed, painted, rebuilt fences, completed electrical repairs and even cleaned her yard. This event was the beginning of a passionate movement to improve the living conditions of Sacramento area homeowners through home repairs performed by volunteers.
Rebuilding Together Sacramento is formed
In 2001, Christmas in April changed its name to Rebuilding Together and began providing services all year. The Safe at Home Program was established, with the help of the Agency on Aging and Catholic Healthcare West, to increase the homeowner’s independence and prevent at-home injuries through home safety installations.
Rebuilding Together Sacramento adds additional services
In the early 2000’s, the importance of addressing the entire neighborhood resulted in the “Our Dream Street” program where all the homes on four adjacent streets were improved.
In 2012- 2014, over 200 homes received critical repairs through the Critical Repair and Accessibility Program.
In 2011-2013, four foreclosed homes were rehabbed and purchased by first-time homebuyers with the help of the Asian Association of Realtors, Wells Fargo, and Chase Banks.
In 2013-14, the affiliate provided a combination of home modifications, major and minor repairs, weatherization improvements and emergency repairs on approximately 700 homes – an all-time high!
The Home Energy Conservation Program was formed to provide minor energy-saving improvements with the Air Quality Management District, Sacramento Association of Realtors, and UC Davis.
In 2015, funding from the City of Rancho Cordova’s Community Enhancement Fund and Community Development Block Grant resulted in a partnership to revitalize homes and neighborhoods in the city. The ongoing partnership with the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency allows for continued work in Sacramento City and County.
In 2016, the partnership with the Sacramento Association of Realtors Charitable Foundation expanded to include its Touching Hearts and Homes program.
In 2018, the third annual Building a Healthy Neighborhood event occurred in Rancho Cordova when hundreds of volunteers improved homes. Volunteers from Genovese Burford & Brothers improved the Veterans Center in Citrus Heights on a day in October.
In 2019, over 400 homes received critical repairs, home safety modifications, energy efficiency upgrades, and beautification throughout the Sacramento region. A new play structure and numerous other improvements were made at Rusch Park in Citrus Heights thanks to a generous grant from Republic Services. A fun and successful fundraiser was held at Top Golf to support our services.
In 2020, RTS adjusted its model and continued to provide services in a way that protected all involved during Covid. Roofs, heating and air, accessibility modifications, yard upgrades, and much more were performed to help homeowners live safe and healthy at home.
In 2021, in addition to our Safe at Home and Rancho Cordova work, Critical Repair services expanded thanks to a grant from the City of Citrus Heights. A major project is occured at the Elk Grove Food Bank, sponsored by Republic Services. Additional Rebuild projects occured on homes in Sacramento on the homes of Veterans.
In 2022, the Elk Grove Food Bank will be completed and Safe at Home services have expanded to El Dorado County. The Building a Healthy Neighborhood project continues in Rancho Cordova, and Critical Repair services in numerous cities. A strategic outreach program to reach underserved residents is made possible due to a SMUD SHINE grant. Additional expansion opportunities are in the works. Stay tuned!
All the work is made possible with the help of our sponsors, donors, partners, and volunteers - click here to learn more about our sponsors.