April 26, 2013 - West Babylon, NY - In honor of National Volunteer Week, April 21 – 27, the Long Island Board of REALTORS® Inc. (LIBOR) and the New York State Association of REALTORS® (NYSAR) rolled up their sleeves to work alongside Rebuilding Together Long Island (RTLI) on a volunteer project that took place at a private residence in Cedarhurst on Thursday, April 25, 2013.   The home had to be vacated by its owner, a 93 year old wheelchair bound woman, after it suffered massive structural damage due to Super Storm Sandy.

Our members volunteered their time and unrelenting hard work to help RTLI replace wall insulation/boards and build a wheelchair accessible handicap ramp.  The installation of the ramp will allow the homeowner to receive the medical attention that she needs; enabling her to come and go from her home with ease.  This was demonstrated with delightful glee by the homeowner once the ramp was completed; needless to say it pulled at the heartstrings of all who were present.

In addition to contributing time, earlier this year LIBOR made a $10,000 donation to the organization, so they can fulfill their mission of helping to rebuild the homes and lives of people in need.   Rebuilding Together Long Island is dedicated to restoring the homes of economically disadvantaged homeowners who are elderly, disabled, and/or single-parent families, so they may continue to live in comfort with dignity and independence.  Their committed staff of 300 volunteers is the backbone of the organization.

Also on hand for the day was News 12, who came out to cover the National Volunteer Week story for a news segment that was aired yesterday evening.   Established in 1974 National Volunteer Week raises awareness about the importance of volunteerism, and the crucial role it plays in strengthening communities while highlighting opportunities for volunteers and organizations to work together.  It’s a wonderful opportunity for volunteers and nonprofit agencies alike to celebrate the impact volunteers have on a daily basis by contributing their time to helping solve community needs. “LIBOR is proud to be an association that volunteers their time and services to those in need.  By continuing and strengthening the partnerships with outstanding organizations such as Rebuilding Together Long Island, we’re committed to making a difference for our neighbors and in the communities we call home.”  said Moses Seuram, 2013 President of LIBOR.

This donation was made through the Long Island Board of REALTORS® “We’re More Than REALTORS®…” initiative, spearheaded by the LIBOR Public Relations committee, which supports numerous programs and charitable community organizations.