The family of Sgt. Jonathan VanderWert were local recipients of a home rehabilitation campaign that is a result of a joint effort between Rebuilding Together and Sears.

Sgt. VanderWert and his wife Blake have a family with nine children. The couple purchased a home that they intended to repair and rejuvenate themselves. But these plans were derailed when Sgt. VanderWert was sent to Iraq for a 15-month tour.

Shortly thereafter, the Heroes at Home Program stepped in. With Blake and the children taking up temporary residences at a family member home and a donated rental home in New Prague, program project leaders assembled their own army of skilled and general volunteers, donators of home remodeling materials, and local community members willing to lend a helping hand in anyway that could make a difference.

The results of their efforts, when all was said and done, brought forth a remodeled home that serves the primary purpose of keeping the family together while Sgt. VanderWert serves his country.

Bathroom—Before

Water from a leaky roof damaged the walls of the homes only working bathroom.

Bathroom—After

Now the bathroom is completely remodeled, fully functional and finished.

Kitchen—Before

The previous homeowners added a kitchen in the home's back porch. This room had no insulation, which allowed food in the cupboards and on the counters to freeze in the winter.

Kitchen—After

Now the kitchen is insulated and features new cabinetry, countertops and plumbing, as well as appliances donated by Sears.