One of America’s greatest assets is an enduring belief that we can all be more and achieve more. It’s this pioneering spirit and optimism that I find even among those who have little.
I was reminded of this recently by a special client of Rebuilding Together Alexandria named Darrin*. He is a life-long Alexandrian with a big frame, big smile, and a big heart to match.
Over the years, he worked hard as a landscaper to provide for his six children that range in age from late teens to toddler. The work took its toll on his body especially his knees. Now after several surgeries, he has limited mobility and has been forced to go on disability.
Despite the set-back, he has an unfailing belief that his children can and should succeed and has used his savings and disability to invest in his children’s futures. He wants his children to have what he never did: an environment where they are free to learn, grow, and find themselves. “It’s so important to me that they feel like they have the best quality of life they can have.”
These aspirations are reflected throughout his home — which reveals a close-knit family and adoring father. In fact, in his favorite room — the kitchen, photos of his kids, their good grades and gold stars, and their schedules (so Darrin always knows where they are) hang with pride on the refrigerator.
Right outside the kitchen is the “college wall,” which is full of materials from different colleges around the state that Darrin and his kids have collected over the years at various college fairs. It’s a reminder for them to stay the course — to aspire and dream big.
Their limited means and his insistence that they strive for excellence also meant that for many years the family had no television, which ensured that the family spent time together, playing board games, participating in athletics, and reading.
And it’s working. His oldest is studying architecture at a Virginia community college and his other children take their studies seriously and are involved in activities and sports.
Unfortunately, the home that he’s owned for more than decade — which is the hub of his family’s daily lives — has been difficult to maintain given his limited income and disability. Darrin worked hard his whole life, and it was very hard for him to ask for help.
Ultimately, he reached out to Rebuilding Together Alexandria, a volunteer-based nonprofit dedicated to repairing and revitalizing homes at no charge for homeowners in need, including elderly, disabled, veterans, and families. After listening to his needs and assessing the house, our volunteers installed new railings, weatherized, installed new storm doors, patched drywall holes, and painted, making his home safer and healthier. Despite his apprehension about asking for help, Darrin feels “more blessed than I can say ... this was the best thing that could have happened.”
Now Darrin has more time and funds to devote to helping his family succeed. Central to this is being able to raise his family in a home that is filled with love and memories. With over 1,600 completed projects, our Rebuilding Together team is proud to be part of his family’s pioneering story — as well as so many others. If you would like to apply, volunteer or donate, visit www.RebuildingTogetherAlex.org or call 703-836-1021.