We couldn’t do what we do without dedicated volunteers who give their time and talents to help vulnerable homeowners in San Mateo County and northern Santa Clara County. With a multitude of volunteer opportunities, people from all walks of life can lend a helping hand. Here are a few of our newest helpers. We are so grateful for them!
Joan Fisher and Allen Eskenazi
Joan Fisher and Allen Eskenazi are retired pediatricians who have long been involved in home improvement projects, both in their house and their garden. “We retired this past July, but we wanted to enhance our community involvement,” Allen said. “We have always felt that our skills should be used to better the community. We found RTP, and it suits us to a T.”
After volunteering on a Rebuilding Day project with the Stanford Group, Joan’s former employer, both Joan and Allen decided to attend one of RTP’s informal volunteer meet-ups to learn more. That’s where they met Rachel Poythress, RTP’s project specialist at the time. “I really enjoyed getting to know them,” said Rachel. “They have great energy, and they have already contributed so much.” Joan and Allen have been helping organize our tools (that seem to walk on their own when not monitored!) in addition to general cleanup in the warehouse.
Paul Roth
After relocating to the Bay Area, Paul heard about RTP when his wife attended a concert with friends. One of them was wearing an RTP t-shirt, which sparked a conversation about the organization. Paul’s wife knew right away that Paul would want to dive in to help. Now he volunteers a couple of days a week assisting RTP’s technicians, Frank Tijerina and Jesse Leandro.
“It’s great to help people in the community who clearly need some assistance, both from a safety and a financial perspective,” Paul said. “Most of these folks are so appreciative. They go overboard either trying to make us coffee or tea or offering us a cookie. One homeowner in Redwood City fed us breakfast and lunch three days in a row!”