Submitted by Rebuilding Together
Mark your calendars for March 13, 2025, as Rebuilding Together Thurston County (RTTC) hosts its annual Build It Breakfast at the Lacey Community Center. Doors open at 7:15 a.m., with the program running from 7:45 to 8:45 a.m. This event isn’t just about a hot breakfast — it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of Thurston County residents who need critical home repairs.
Imagine struggling to get around your own home because of mobility challenges, or living without heat in the dead of winter. These are real struggles faced by homeowners in our community, and RTTC is on the front lines fighting homelessness by ensuring safe, healthy, and accessible housing for homeowners in need. Through a combination of volunteer work, generous donations, local partnerships, and grant funds, RTTC is a vital force in improving the quality of life and safety for low-income homeowners.
Why Attend the Build It Breakfast?
“The funds from Build It Breakfast are a critical part of our annual operating budget,” explains Cathy Johnson, Executive Director of Rebuilding Together Thurston County. “Non-profit funding is in danger, and we rely on these unrestricted funds to help the community.”
The morning will include a delicious breakfast, inspiring stories from those whose lives have been changed by RTTC, and exciting fundraising activities. Guests will have the opportunity to participate in a jewelry raffle featuring stunning pieces generously donated by Panowicz Jewelers. Additionally, local businesses have contributed fantastic items for an auction, and attendees can look forward to a handmade birdhouse auction where Build It Breakfast sponsors competed in teams to build the best birdhouse. The winning team will be crowned and the birdhouses auctioned off to the highest bidders.
Making a Difference, One Repair at a Time
Since 2003, RTTC has been a beacon of hope for low-income homeowners, focusing on critical home repairs and accessibility modifications. From fixing broken heating systems to installing wheelchair ramps, their work ensures that low-income seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and families with children can live safely and independently in their homes.
“The work we do not only repairs homes, it also lifts the spirits of our clients,” says Pete Kmet, RTTC Board Secretary and Treasurer. “It’s very gratifying to see our work make a difference in their lives.”
In 2024 alone, RTTC helped 55 homeowners, changing the lives of over 80 people in our community.
“We couldn’t do the work we do without our volunteers and our generous community partners like PCI Pest Control, Springer Plumbing, Lacey Rotary, Lowe’s, Bayview Lumber, and Olympic Plumbing Technology.
It’s also the event sponsors whose support makes the Build It Breakfast possible. This year, Setina Manufacturing and TwinStar Credit Union have pledged their support as Diamond Partners, and Puget Sound Energy, Umpqua Bank, Stewart Title and Oly Fed all showed their support as Ruby Rebuilders.
A Passion for Helping Others
Johnson, who serves as a (volunteer) executive director, is deeply committed to the organization’s mission. When asked why she dedicates nearly every waking moment of her time to the organization, she reflects on the values that drive her:
“I grew up in a small town where everybody knew everybody, and there were multi-generations of people living there. And they helped each other. You just don’t see that these days, and oftentimes there is no community support as far as relatives living in the area. So there’s a huge gap of people who really need help, and that’s where we fit in. We help people have dignity by offering support and ensuring their home is safe. It’s huge for me because I see the gap in the community out there and feel strongly we can improve their quality of life. And sometimes all it takes is just a small thing.”
How You Can Get Involved
The success of Build It Breakfast relies on the generosity of attendees, sponsors, and volunteers. Whether you choose to participate in the auctions, sponsor the event, or make a direct donation, your support will go toward helping more homeowners in need.
For those who want to do even more, RTTC is always looking for skilled tradespeople and volunteers to help with projects throughout the year. Even if you don’t have construction experience, there are opportunities to assist with painting, yard cleanup, and other hands-on tasks. The nonprofit could also use support in the office or in marketing and has never met a volunteer whose help they couldn’t utilize.
Join the community on March 13, 2025, at the Lacey Community Center, and be part of something truly impactful. Together, we can ensure that everyone in our community has a safe place to call home.
For more information about Rebuilding Together Thurston County and how you can contribute, visit rebuildingtogethertc.org. The breakfast is free to attend, but Rebuilding Together Thurston County hopes that after you learn more about the work they do, you’ll feel called to pitch in and donate. Please RSVP for the event by emailing info@rebuildingtogthertc.org or by calling 360.539.7830.
