Rebuilding Together Henry County, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in June 1994, began with one simple mission: to provide free home repairs to low-income homeowners in Geneseo, helping them remain safe and secure in their own homes.
Over the past 30 years, RTHC has grown significantly and now serves communities throughout both Henry and Stark Counties. What started with a single workday has expanded into three year-round programs: comprehensive home rehabilitation and accessibility modifications, our Safe at Home services, which include wheelchair ramps, and our [Re]Use program offering durable medical equipment loans.
Today, RTHC supports 75–100 families each year, helping neighbors live more safely, independently, and with dignity.
Your donation helps our homeowners live in safe and healthy homes!
In 1973, caring residents of Midland, Texas noticed many low- and fixed-income neighbors living in unsafe homes with no hot water, electricity, or indoor plumbing. Seeing no programs to help, they recruited volunteers to repair these homes, inspired by the spirit of barn-raising. One early homeowner described the work as “Christmas in April,” giving the program its name.
By 1988, 13 Christmas in April programs operated across the U.S., including one in Washington, DC. Rising interest nationwide led to the creation of Christmas in April USA, which helped new affiliates develop and replicate the program. Patty Johnson became the first president and CEO in 1988.
In 2001, the organization became Rebuilding Together, reflecting its expanded, year-round mission. Beyond home repairs, Rebuilding Together now rehabs community centers and provides critical modifications for aging and disabled homeowners—rebuilding America, one home at a time.
Each year, more low-income homeowners face tough choices between essentials — like food or medicine — and critical home repairs. Rebuilding Together helps ensure families don’t have to choose by providing safe, healthy home repairs at no cost.
Eligible homeowners are low-income and are seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities, or families with children who cannot complete the work themselves. Referrals come from community groups, neighborhood organizations, faith communities, service agencies, or self-referral. Please check with the homeowner before submitting on their behalf.
We operate year-round as weather permits.
Anyone 14 or older can volunteer! We welcome all skill levels—from those who can lend a hand with basic tasks to trained tradespeople. Carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and other skilled volunteers are especially needed as house captains and crew leaders. A waiver must be signed prior to volunteering.
Home repairs and modification services are at no cost for low-income homeowners. Labor and many materials are donated. We ask homeowners to participate alongside volunteers as they are able.
Safe at Home: Wheel Chair Ramps
REUSE: Donations are always welcome to help support these services.
Our work is funded by generous individuals, businesses, foundations, civic groups, faith organizations, and schools. Rebuilding Together is a nonprofit, non-sectarian organization supported by volunteer time and donations.
Yes. All gifts are tax-deductible. Contributions may be mailed to:
Rebuilding Together Henry County, P.O. Box 254, Geneseo, IL 61254
Or made online.
Please ask the potential recipient before submitting on their behalf.
Visit the “Get Involved” tab for a referral form, or contact our office:
📞 309-288-4600
📧 ssnyder@rebuildingtogether-hc.org
