Labor of Love Volunteers

What is Labor of Love- People Helping People?

It is a volunteer effort to repair, restore and rehabilitate homes of low -income, disabled and elderly homeowners of Livingston County. Labor of Love includes Project Day, a large, one-day event that undertakes many repair and cleaning projects with many volunteers This year's Project Day will occur on Saturday, April 30, 2011. Additionally, Labor of Love has expanded to provide a year around Urgent Care and Repair ministry to perform repairs that are required so that the people can continue to live safely in their homes. Shepherd of the Lakes Lutheran Church in Brighton provides much of the support and leadership for the program. Labor of Love is affiliated with Love In The Name of Christ, an organization of more than 45 Livingston County churches that have joined together to serve the community.

Why is Labor of Love needed?
For the low-income, disabled and elderly in Livingston County, properly maintaining a home can be an impossible task. Many of our neighbors cannot provide themselves with even the basic necessities we take for granted.

What work is perfomred?
Labor of Love does repairs in the following areas: carpentry, plumbing, heating, electrical, plastering, painting, weather stripping, yard work, trash removal, cleaning, home safety and handicap accessibility. This year’s project teams will coordinate major home repair projects; minor repairs; a mobile safety team that will make short visits to assist with primary safety issues like smoke detectors, light bulbs, and hand rails; “Rake and Run” yourth teams that will do spring yard work; and the "Clean Team" that performs interior cleaning.

Who is eligible for Labor of Love services?
Low income, elderly and disabled homeowners who are not able to do the work themselves are eligible. There are no complicated eligibility forms to fill out. Love INC will provide screening of applicants and may be able to coordinate additional services to homeowners that are nominated.

How are Labor of Love projects selected?
Various individuals, churches, community organizations, and services groups refer homeowners to Labor of Love. A home evaluation visit is made by a skilled tradesperson. A committee ultimately makes the determination as to whether or not the homeowner meets eligibility criteria, is in need, and if the repairs fit the abilities of the available volunteers. Labor of Love services can be requested by letter, phone, fax, or at our website www.laboroflovelivingston.com.

What are the responsibilities of the homeowners who are being helped?
Homeowners who are able-bodied are expected to work alongside volunteers on the event day. Homeowner’s family members are encouraged to participate. Some have found other special ways to make volunteers feel welcome and appreciated: providing special snack, words of appreciation, and notes of thanks.

Who can volunteer for Labor of Love?
Anyone twelve (12) years of age and older can be a Labor of Love volunteer. Volunteers do not need to be skilled at home repairs, but any skills will be well utilized. You can volunteer by e mailing WeCare@LaborOfLoveLivingston.com, calling 810-227-5099, by downloading and returning a Volunteer Form from this website, of by completing the online volunteer form on this website.

Where do the skilled tradespeople come from?
Numerous community-minded, skilled individuals and companies participate by donating skilled help as well as tools. Volunteers from over 15 churches and civic organizations now participate in the program. Without such skilled workers, many of the repairs cannot be undertaken.

Who pays for the Labor of Love repairs?
Funds received from churches, businesses, corporations, foundations, service organizations and individuals are used. All repairs are paid for by Labor of Love. Homeowners do not pay for services provided.

How do I make pledge of support and to whom should I write my check?
Your tax deductible donation should be made to: Shepherd of the Lakes Lutheran Church. In the memo section of your check, please include Labor of Love. Please mail your donation to Labor of Love Dedicated Account, c/o Shepherd of the Lakes Lutheran Church, 2101 South Hacker Road, Brighton, MI 48114.

Can I donate materials or supplies?
Material and supply donations are also encouraged and can be arranged by contacting Allan Lutes at 734-769-1900, Suzanne Biddix at 810-227-5099 or by e mailing WeCare@LaborOfLoveLivingstson.com.