General FAQ’s

How are Rebuilding Together and Habitat for Humanity different?

Rebuilding Together and Habitat for Humanity both work to serve families in our community, but in different ways. While Habitat for Humanity helps people become first-time homeowners and secure mortgages they would not otherwise qualify for, Rebuilding Together Aurora provides free critical home repairs for people who are already homeowners. RTA assists low-income families, military veterans, senior citizens and people with disabilities by creating safe environments in which they can maintain their independence and live safe and healthy lives. While fulfilling our mission to create safe homes for low-income homeowners, RTA also leads the charge in helping revitalize undeserved neighborhoods through effective and lasting grass-roots community development.

Homeowner FAQ’s

How do I apply?

Please visit the "Help My Home" section of our website. You can also request an application by email, phone, or in person.

Do you ever work outside of Aurora?

Most of the critical repair and community development work performed by Rebuilding Together Aurora happens within the City of Aurora and boundaries of Aurora Township. Military veterans living in the greater Fox Valley area with home repair needs are welcome to apply for critical repair services. For more information about RTA's service boundaries, contact our office.

Volunteer FAQ’s

How old do you have to be to volunteer?

Volunteers at rebuilding and construction sites must be at least 14 years old. Special projects are available on a limited basis for youth groups with volunteers under the age of 14. Please contact our office for more information and current volunteer opportunities.

Can I complete court-ordered or mandatory service hours with RTA?

Yes. We are happy to provide a letter confirming hours of volunteer service completed as long as it is arranged with office staff before hand.

Can I learn construction on a jobsite?

Yes and no. Rebuilding Together Aurora's mission is to provide low-income homeowners with quality home repairs that they cannot afford or have the ability to do themselves. Although we encourage our skilled volunteers to instruct and teach the other volunteers on their project site, our top priority is to provide the homeowner with quality repairs in a timely manner. If you are interested in learning a construction skill on a Rebuilding Together Aurora project site, your best bet is to talk to the House Captain in charge of your site and arrange for mentorship.

Sponsor FAQ’s

What is the minimum donation to sponsor a project?

There are no minimum donations. However, the average cost of each project is $8,000 and it costs RTA approximately $50 to host a volunteer for a Day of Service. We encourage every volunteer and participating organization to consider sponsoring the purchase of building materials and supplies that allow us to provide critical repairs services, at no cost, to low-income homeowners.

April doesn’t work for us. Can we organize a volunteer project outside of April?

Yes! However, we must take into consideration your team's size, skill level, time commitment, availability, and funding. Each of these pieces are essential to selecting and completing a successful project.