TimesUnion - June 22, 2007
By DENNIS YUSKO, Staff writer

Michelle Larkin (blue) and fellow workers on site with Rebuilding Together Saratoga County, April 2007 SARATOGA SPRINGS -- Soroptimist International of Saratoga County recently presented Michelle Larkin, founder and coordinator of Rebuilding Together: Saratoga, with the 2007 Making a Difference for Women Award.

The award honors women who make extraordinary efforts on behalf of women and girls.

Larkin, who founded Rebuilding Together in 2003, was chosen for her willingness to give time, energy, and considerable ability to meet the area's affordable housing needs, the Soroptimist International said.

Rebuilding Together is a national volunteer program that aims to repair homes of low-income elderly and disabled homeowners. Larkin discovered the program while being a chaperon on teen work trips in different areas of the U.S.

Since the program's inception in the county, 85 homeowners have been helped, mostly women, who were unable maintain their homes due to financial hardships or family circumstances.

Additionally, Rebuilding Together has raised more than $250,000 for housing, with each dollar multiplied by discounts and contributions of additional materials. In 2006, 300 community volunteers gave 2,500 hours of service.

Larkin received a $500 cash grant to donate to her charity of her choice. She selected Rebuilding Together and will be eligible for additional awards at the Soroptimist Regional and International levels.