FAQ

Homeowners:

• How do I apply for home repairs?

• • Call (504) 264-1815. 

• What is an Intake Form?

• • An Intake Form asks questions about the homeowner, the house, and the repairs needed. The purpose of this form is to help identify eligibility of the homeowner.

• Do I qualify?

• • RTNO serves citizens in Orleans Parish who are low income, elderly, disabled, veterans, and/or single head of household with minor children.

• How long is the wait?

• • Approximately 6 or 12 months due to the high volume of calls each day.

• Do I have to pay for any services or buy materials?

• • No, we do not charge the homeowner for anything. We provide the labor and materials through private grants, donors, and city funding.

• What type of repairs do you provide?

• • We provide “Safe-at-home” repairs, so anything from grab bars, wheelchair ramps, and stairs to “house care” such as exterior siding, painting, and sheet rock. We also provide minor electrical and plumbing. 

• I know someone who needs home repairs. How can I apply for your services on their behalf?

• • You can refer the homeowner who needs repairs to call (504) 264-1815 to speak with one of our homeowner liaisons to do an intake form over the phone. You can also provide us with the homeowners name and number and our homeowner liaisons will call them to start the process. 

Volunteers:

• How can I volunteer?

• • Email info@rtno.org or call (504)920-5722 to learn about our volunteer options.

• How many days can I volunteer for?

• • We prefer a minimum of two workdays but we are happy to work with groups to schedule meaningful service days that can fit almost any schedule.

• What days can I volunteer and for how long?

• • Work projects are available Monday – Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

• Is there an age requirement to volunteer?

• • All volunteers must be 15 or older. All volunteers will be asked to sign waivers of liability (those under 18 will require a parent or guardian signature), but will also be given a safety overview and general orientation onsite.

• Do I have to live in New Orleans to volunteer?

• • No, we encourage in state and out of state volunteers to help the citizens of New Orleans!

• Can I be a single volunteer?

• • Yes! We encourage everyone to volunteer with us whether you are by yourself, in a big group, or in a small group!

• What kind of work will I be doing on site?

• • Jobs performed on the house will vary according to the work scope and may consist of skilled or unskilled tasks, such as painting, carpentry, landscaping, etc.

AmeriCorps:

• What AmeriCorps programs does RTNO have?

• • AmeriCorps State Program: A program through Volunteer Louisiana Commission where members serve by completing home repairs and assisting with new client intakes.

• • • These terms are anywhere between 8 months to 11 months.

• What are some benefits of AmeriCorps?

• • Monthly living stipends
  • Health insurance for full-term members
  • Segal Education Award at the successful completion of your term to be used for student loans or furthering your education at a college, university, or technical school.
  • Networking opportunities with national nonprofits, businesses, and government entities.
  • Monthly professional development with topics such as resume building, financial planning, and team building. 

• Does RTNO provide housing for their AmeriCorps members?

• • No, but we will gladly assist anyone who needs help finding a place.

• Am I eligible for food stamps as an AmeriCorps member?

• • Yes! 

• Do I need my own source of transportation?

• • We highly recommend a car but New Orleans is a very friendly biking city as well. There is also public transportation that can be used.

• How do I apply for an AmeriCorps position with Rebuilding Together New Orleans?

• • Go to the AmeriCorps page of our website under “Get Involved” and click the apply button on the bottom of the page to get started.

• Is there an age requirement to be an AmeriCorps member?

• • 18+ for a full time AmeriCorps positions. For our summer job training program you must be 17+ (if 17 you must have a parent or guardian sign a consent form).

Other

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