Group gathers to 'Rock the Block' in Albert Lea - KXLT - Fox 47 Rochester MN News, Weather and Sports

ALBERT LEA, Minn. (FOX 47) -- It's an initiative that's promising to spruce up neighborhoods in Mower and Freeborn Counties.

The Brush with Kindness program, or Rock the Block as it's being called in Albert Lea, is a program done through local housing organizations with a goal of helping everyday people improve the exterior of their homes.

Keith and Carolyn Duncan purchased their home in the 80's. At that time, the house had wood cedar siding and it required massive paintwork every few years, which got tiring for this couple.

But 'A Brush with Kindness' is a new initiative created by Habitat for Humanity, United Way and other housing services in the community, promising to help people who need a do-over on their homes.

Wednesday on Euclid Drive in Albert Lea, volunteers climbed on their scaffolding, with hammers and nails in hand, ready to put a new face on the outside of the Duncan's house, as well as four other homes in the neighborhood.

Thomas Egan is the coordinator for the 'A Brush with Kindness' program in Albert Lea, and he says they're always looking for volunteers, as well as people who need work on their homes.
The recruiting process is simple. Anyone can apply and request services,.

The Duncans are grateful for the look of their new home and so are the volunteers.
They find satisfaction in helping others and they can't wait for the finished product on Friday, when the house will look like new.