Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does The ReBuilding Center contribute to a healthier environment?
A: The ReBuilding Center diverts the region’s largest volume of reusable building and remodeling materials from landfills (approximately 8 tons per day), providing resources for the benefit of communities with the goal of promoting sustainable practices. Our two newer warehouse buildings are a national model for green building with onsite storm water management, natural day-lighting, and bioswales filled with native plants. Our expanded warehouse and remodeled office area are designed from a creative array of salvaged lumber, siding, doors, windows and other reclaimed materials, demonstrating sustainable and environmentally sound practices while doubling The ReBuilding Center’s capacity for waste diversion and community enhancement.
Q: Are there plans to start other ReBuilding Centers?
A: Our program model is locally-based. We do not have plans for other locations. However, we freely share what we have learned with individuals and groups around the region, across the country and even in in other parts of the world. We encourage others to learn from our experiences and create program models that work to accomplish their goals for their own local communities.
Q: What does Community Outreach of Our United Villages do?
A: Community Outreach convenes, consults, and is a catalyst for community building. They host events where people come together, discover their common interests, and develop ideas that benefit the community as a whole. They host free events that include Community Conversations and Tools for Community Building Workshops. They provide free consultations during which they listen, brainstorm, strategize, and give feedback to individuals or groups working to make a positive difference. They “give away” the tools and strategies used in their community-building efforts, developed over the past 6 years. Tool-packets include: Survey & Canvassing Tools, Hosting a Neighborhood History Storytelling Event, or Hosting a Neighborhood Conversation. Community Outreach is a springboard for individuals and groups to turn their ideas into action. They share the inspirational stories of people working together to inspire others. To learn more, go to http://www.ourunitedvillages.org.
Q: How does The ReBuilding Center benefit the local economy?
A: The ReBuilding Center serves as an anchor for North Portland, contributing to the community’s economic and social vitality. About 90 percent of Our United Villages’ full-time staff members live in North/Northeast Portland. We provide a livable wage and full medical and dental benefits for employees.
Q: Will The ReBuilding Center donate materials to community building projects?
A: Yes—we regularly make donations of used building materials to locally-based grassroots organizations seeking materials for projects or to assist people in need. Projects and organizations must be inclusive and directly benefit the local community. Last year, The ReBuilding Center donated materials with a market value of over $50,000 to more than 100 organizations. Click here for our Donation Request Guidelines.
Q: Since everything is donated to The ReBuilding Center, where does the money go?
A: The ReBuilding Center’s inventory is priced at 50 to 90% off the rates you would find for similar items in regular retail outlets. Our actual price is based on the condition of the materials. Funds received from the sale of donated items pays for our operating costs (staff salaries and benefits, supplies, utilities, mortgage, etc.) and support the community enhancement work of Our United Villages.
Q: I have something of value that I would like to sell to The ReBuilding Center. Can I do that?
A: Our non-profit status does not allow us to purchase inventory for re-sale.
Q: How many people work for The ReBuilding Center?
A: There are currently about 30 people on staff. We rely heavily on volunteer support and welcome about 2000 volunteers every year who perform a huge variety of tasks to help keep this place running.