For those who are handy with a hammer, or even those who aren't, Rebuilding Together Oakland could use help with home repairs on its April 10, 11, 17 and 18 workdays.

The group relies on skilled and unskilled volunteers, in its own words, "to rehabilitate the homes of low-income elderly and disabled homeowners, so they may continue to live in safety, comfort and independence."

Also rehabilitating "non-profit facilities that directly serve low-income communities," the group "leverages financial and in-kind donations to make these improvements at no cost to the homeowners. RTO is able to produce a high return: each dollar donated is leveraged to produce $3 of added value to the community."

Individuals and groups may volunteer, either via the RTO website or by e-mailing Rachel Matthews. Volunteers should provide headcounts of their groups if applicable, dates they are available, and whether the volunteer, or anyone in the group, has repair skills.

For those without, the site offers a number of helpful resources about safety, minor repairs, and painting. Volunteers are asked to read these before arriving.

Student groups are also welcome, and this is an excellent service learning opportunity. They simply need to provide one parent or teacher for every five student volunteers, and request minor waivers for students ages 14 to 17.

In addition to the tangible satisfaction and community benefit volunteers receive, RTO provides t-shirts, morning snacks and lunch. Volunteers should bring refillable water bottles and their community spirit.