Building on Community Needs: Expanding the Impact of Rebuilding Together
At Rebuilding Together, growth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about meeting the needs of communities, listening first and then finding ways to help. Across the country, our network of affiliates is always expanding, strengthening and merging to create broader coverage and more sustainable support for neighbors. Through strategic partnerships, our affiliates are ensuring that more communities can access safe and healthy housing.
Becky Carter, senior director of network advancement at Rebuilding Together’s national office, emphasizes the importance of community-driven growth. “ Rebuilding Together affiliates are responding to the needs in their communities and identifying opportunities for expansion. This growth is happening organically as communities step up to support one another.” She also highlights how Rebuilding Together’s goals are shaping this expansion. “Having a home is foundational. We are committed to meeting the needs of our communities by listening to what they want and ensuring we have the resources to help them achieve their vision.”
Several Rebuilding Together affiliates have recently expanded their reach, demonstrating how strategic growth can lead to stronger service offerings and more impactful programs.
Jesse Porter, executive director of Rebuilding Together Austin, shares how a merger has bolstered their ability to serve more neighbors in Central Texas. “Since Austin and San Antonio have joined forces to become one affiliate, we have collectively been able to provide blanket coverage to the Central Texas region. Collaborating with housing departments from both cities creates a stronger and wider serving affiliate.”
Similarly, Genevieve Crocker, executive director of Rebuilding Together Eastern Shore, notes the advantages of merging Rebuilding Together Kent County and Rebuilding Together Queen Anne’s County to streamline services. “The decision by the two organizations’ Boards of Directors to merge followed thoughtful discussions and a comprehensive due diligence process. As a united entity, Rebuilding Together Eastern Shore is equipped to take on larger projects, serve more neighbors and better incorporate the skills and interests of its dedicated cadre of volunteers. By removing duplicative expenses, we can focus more resources on our core mission and ensure we are excellent stewards of the grants and donations entrusted to us.”
For some affiliates, growth has been a crucial factor in sustainability. Stephanie Luyties, executive director of Rebuilding Together Portland, reflects on how their expansion helped keep their affiliate moving forward. “Growth is essential for relevance, meeting community needs and securing funding. Our Board considered closing the affiliate several years ago because the organization was struggling. Our growth positively benefits communities by identifying underserved areas and providing services that address their needs and fill gaps.”
The expansion of Rebuilding Together's network illustrates the power of collaboration. As we grow, we’re reminded that it truly takes a village—when communities come together, we can create lasting change and ensure more of our neighbors have a safe place to call home.