(Brookeville, MD, October 4, 2024) — Donaldson volunteers completed a two-day project made possible through Rebuilding Together Montgomery County to enable the nonprofit organization Our House to expand services for young men who need supportive services as they age out of the system. Our House, a residential community for at-risk youth in Brookeville, MD, is thrilled about the completion of the project aimed at revitalizing dormitories for older participants and making much-needed improvements to the nonprofit’s core offices.
Over the two days, a team of about three dozen workers from Donaldson worked to enhance the living environment of Our House participants. Volunteers replaced flooring, repaired broken railings, painted dormitory interiors, and revitalized the surrounding landscape. These improvements will provide a safe and welcoming space for older participants to live as they continue to develop essential life and job skills.
“We are incredibly proud of our employees who volunteered to share their skills and enthusiasm working on this important project,” said Donaldson Senior Vice President of Operations Angelique Wheelock. In addition to the volunteers, Donaldson donated $10,000 toward the Rebuilding Together program. “Investing in the development of our youth is not just a responsibility, but a privilege. By enhancing the living spaces for the participants at Our House, we’re not only improving their environment but also empowering them to build a brighter future. We appreciate Rebuilding Together Montgomery County’s identifying the need and facilitating the project.”
Rebuilding Together Montgomery County(RTMC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free critical home repairs and accessibility modifications for income-eligible homeowners coordinated the project. Since its inception in 1990, RTMC has served over 3,000 families and mobilized more than 50,000 volunteers, investing nearly $28 million in repairs and renovations across local neighborhoods. The Our House effort marks Rebuilding Together’s 30th project of the fiscal year. RTMC is committed to helping non-profits in Montgomery County as they provide vital services to the community.
“Our House is committed to empowering young individuals as they transition into adulthood,” Our House Executive Director Beatrice Rice, “This renovation not only improves the living conditions for our participants but also demonstrates the incredible impact that community partnerships can have in fostering personal growth and development.”
Our House provides services to young transitional age youth job training, professional counseling, life skills workshops and GED preparation while living in a supportive environment. Participants can earn construction, hospitality, IT and security certifications as well as workforce development training and college prep.
“This partnership with Rebuilding Together Montgomery County and Donaldson showcases the spirit of community collaboration which greatly benefits Our House,” said Rebuilding Together Executive Director Chloe Bernardi. “Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.”
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