Rock the Block Brings People Together

We are so excited to bring back Rock the Block for its second year in 2025. In case you’re not familiar with Rock the Block, it is a neighborhood revitalization initiative that brings together volunteers, homeowners, and local organizations to preserve and enhance communities in Greater Green Bay.
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Rock the Block is unique because instead of building homes from the ground up, our work is focused strictly on exterior home repairs and beautification projects. This year, we are working on homes in the Fisk Addition Neighborhood in the City of Green Bay. We will be supporting dozens of homeowners with free or low-cost repairs; things like painting, landscaping, porch and deck repairs, safety modifications, and more.
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To qualify, homeowners in the designated neighborhood can apply through our website. They are asked to detail their needs and once approved, we get to work on our end coordinating the project scope, materials, and volunteers needed for the job. A whole lot of planning and teamwork goes into Rock the Block, but the impact it makes on homeowners and the larger community is SO worth it.

​Rock the Block’s Impact on Volunteers

The success of Rock the Block rests on the shoulders of our incredible volunteers. It really is neighbors helping neighbors! We have corporate groups, skilled tradespeople, civic groups, and individuals that sign up to work on these projects.

Last year, a large group from Elevate97 came out to help when we were working in De Pere. “We had an incredible morning participating in Rock the Block with Greater Green Bay Habitat for Humanity. There’s something truly special about coming together to make a difference in our community!”

Other local businesses agree. Resource One Realty, LLC emphasized the importance of investing in neighborhood upkeep: “We believe that a well-maintained neighborhood creates a thriving environment and promotes residential retention for growing families, those who've aged in place, as well as newcomers to our area.”

Sober Cuts Woodworking shared their personal hands-on experience: “[I] had a great time helping out some wonderful residents! Over 30 houses are being worked on. I did a lot of painting and finished the day starting a deck build! Feels nice to volunteer.”

For many who participated last year, the most enjoyable part of the day was getting to know homeowners and other volunteers. “I just enjoyed working side by side with the homeowners,” one participant said. “They were so happy we were helping — made you feel great!” Another reflected, “I think the most rewarding part of this was talking to the owners of the houses. Everyone I talked to was really grateful for the work we did, and you could tell our help made a big difference in their lives.”

Rock the Block’s Impact on Homeowners

For homeowners, the impact of Rock the Block goes far beyond just improved curb appeal (although that is a huge piece of the puzzle). This initiative can actually be  life-changing for those participating in the program. Last year, we were able to work on dozens of homes and it was incredible to see the before and after transformations!

One homeowner expressed the deep impact our volunteers made. “I’m 75 and needed help with a leak in the roof of our garden shed and painting second-story windows. I’m not sure how I would have gotten the things done that they are going to do. Rock the Block came to my much-needed rescue. Thank you so much!”

Others expressed excitement about finally addressing long-overdue repairs: “Removing the diseased tree from our front yard will enable us to again use that space. It will be a positive boost to how we feel about our house and our neighborhood.”

“We have a very old farmhouse that has been updated over the years by previous owners,” wrote another De Pere homeowner. “With the way the economy is, we haven't been able to do as much as we would like. When I heard about Rock the Block, I knew I had to apply. Our front porch had become an eyesore and safety issue. Having it redone will really improve the aesthetic and safety of our house.”

Another sweet couple who had spent years doing mission work reflected on how meaningful it was to be on the receiving end of support like this: “We love our home and want to keep it looking nice. It’s just getting harder the older we get. This opportunity came at the right time! Thank you for this!”

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Join Rock the Block 2025 in September

Rock the Block 2025 is taking place September 25, 26, and 27 and we would love it if you joined us! When we come together to support homeowners who face financial or physical barriers, we make it possible for more families to live in safe, stable homes. So come swing a hammer, share your time, and be part of the change!

Click here to learn more about volunteering for Rock the Block 2025 and let’s keep building a better Green Bay — one block at a time.