Story Published:
Sep 12, 2009 at 9:05 PM MST
Story Updated:
Sep 13, 2009 at 2:34 PM MST
BILLINGS - Many of us look forward to the weekends as a time to relax and maybe get some chores done, but one Billings group has been spending their weekends re-building a local family's home.
The group is called Rebuilding Together. "Most often our projects are new furnaces, new windows, often we'll do some flooring,” said local affiliate President Connie Lough, “we're doing everything here, absolutely everything."
Homeowner Pam Dye says she wanted to fix up the home, but on her limited income she couldn't afford to. The re-built home may not be flashy, but it will be easy to care for, safe, and warm. Workers gutted the inside, and are replacing the siding and the roof.
They'll also be adding a second bedroom to the home for Dye's son Elijah. "I've been praying for 15 years for this house, because I've only lived in a one bedroom house with two kids for 15 years," said Dye.
Because the workers are volunteers, most of the work gets done on the weekends. "I look forward to weekends,” said Dye, ”coming over here and helping out with them."
“If we're not qualified we do have to bring in contractors, but we do as much as we can on our own,” said Lough.
With industry professionals volunteering that's a lot more than one might imagine. "We have a lot of skilled people who have volunteered their time,” said Lough. “We have electricians, we have framers, we have moms, youngsters, anyone's welcome, we'll find something for anyone to do."
"It's awesome working with them because you can build right along with them, help out, and know how your house is being put together, know everything from the bottom up," said Dye.
Dye said she had a lot of memories in her home, but she's excited for her re-vamped house, and she has a message for all the volunteers. “Thank you very much for helping me out, I appreciate it."
If you're interested in volunteering your time or applying as a homeowner you can find more information on rebuilding together by clicking here.
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