What is “Labor of Love”?
Labor of Love is an annual ONE-DAY BLITZ to repair and rehabilitate the homes of senior citizens and at risk populations. It unites people of all faiths and walks of life in an effort to assist people in need. For some, 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 repairs are done?
Labor of Love considers all repairs that can be done in one day i.e. carpentry, plumbing, painting, plastering, glazing, weather-stripping, locksmithing, window and door repair and replacement. Many other tasks may be provided inside and outside, such as house cleaning, trash removal, tree trimming and other yard work.
How are “Labor of Love” homes selected?
Referrals come from a variety of sources: area agencies dealing with the elderly and disabled, as well as phone referrals. Each case is carefully researched, including income guidelines. House audits are done by the professionals in charge of the project. The Labor of Love Planning Committee makes the difficult determination as to whether the homeowner meets the eligibility criteria, is in need and whether the home is within our purview. Homeowners denied for Labor of Love Services are referred to other resources in the community.
Who is eligible to receive "Labor of Love" services?
Low income and disabled homeowners, the elderly in particular, who are not able to do the work themselves and cannot afford to hire the work done are eligible for Labor of Love services. Labor of Love assistance is available to persons who reside in the United Way of Illinois Service areas of Arlington, Cedar Point, Cherry, Dalzell, Earlville, Granville, Ladd, LaSalle, Leonore, Lostant, McNabb, Magnolia, Mark, Mendota, Oglesby, Peru, Spring Valley, Standard, Tonica, Triumph, Troy Grove and Utica. Applicants must also live in the home and provide confirmation of income and insurance.
Who can volunteer for “Labor of Love” Day?
Any individual 18 years and older can be a volunteer. Volunteers come from churches, businesses, schools, community service organizations, corporations, associations and interested individuals. They represent all professions. Volunteers do not need to be skilled at home repairs, but any and all skills will be well utilized. There is help needed in organizing the project such as phone calls, mailings, securing donations and planning the food for the event. Volunteers under the age of 18 may participate if a parent or guardian is on site as well. Simply download the file and print on your computer, then fill out all of the information, sign the form, and mail to us at the United Way office.
Who sponsors “Labor of Love” Day?
United Way of Illinois Valley Labor of Love program receives contributions from individuals, churches, businesses, financial institutions, local unions and service organizations. Labor of Love donations are all tax deductible. These funds enable the Committee to purchase supplies: paint, lumber, doors, windows, plumbing, and shingles, etc. In-Kind gifts are also accepted and tax deductible. Homeowners are not expected to pay for ANY services or materials and all labor is donated by volunteers. United Way and local sponsors will provide lunches for teams who have not arranged for their own meals and refreshments.