7/18/2007

World Changers Return to Chattanooga to Provide Free Home Repair

Chattanooga, TN - Beverly P. Johnson, Administrator of the Department of Neighborhood Services and Community Development announces the arrival of World Changers to Chattanooga. During the week of July 21 through 28, 2007, World Changers, a ministry of the North American Mission Board of the Southern Baptist, returns, bringing volunteer laborers from all over the country to provide free home repair to qualifying homeowners in low to moderate income neighborhoods. Projects include painting, roofing, porch repair, construction of handicap ramps, and more.

Last year, World Changers brought 344 volunteers who rehabbed 30 homes for some of our most deserving residents. This year, over 360 volunteer laborers will be in Chattanooga organized in crews consisting of middle school, high school and some college students. They are scheduled to perform repairs on 34 project sites in the span of one week. Though the work is performed by the student volunteers, many of the crew supervisors are construction professionals, skilled craftsmen, or have years of experience with World Changers and similar home repair projects.

The Department of Neighborhood Services and Community Development and Front Porch Alliance are providing funding for the cost of building materials and related supplies. Brainerd Baptist Church is providing lodging.  Meals and water are being donated by other churches and community group sponsors.

For more information about this release contact Vanessa A. Jackson at 423-425-3741.

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