Labor of Love
Creating warm, safe, and dry homes for those in need
Transforming Homes, Touching Lives.
Welcome to Labor of Love—A United Way of Eastern LaSalle County initiative.
Labor of Love is a powerful expression of community care and volunteer spirit. Each year, volunteers come together for a day of service to provide essential home repairs for individuals and families in need throughout Eastern LaSalle County.
This initiative goes beyond fixing homes—it strengthens neighborhoods, promotes safety and accessibility, and reflects our shared commitment to ensuring everyone has a safe, stable place to live. Labor of Love is a reminder that when we come together to care for one another, we’re not just maintaining homes—we’re reinforcing the foundation of a stronger, more connected community.
Behind every repair is a story.
Step into the stories of United Way of Eastern LaSalle County’s Labor of Love program!
Discover an impact that reaches far beyond home repairs.
Labor of Love Program Details
Labor of Love offers homeowners in need the opportunity to receive essential home repairs at no cost. This program is designed for those who are physically or financially unable to maintain their homes, providing much-needed support to ensure a safer and more secure living environment. With the help of dedicated volunteers and local partners, we focus on repairs that improve safety, accessibility, and comfort.
Participating in Labor of Love not only provides vital assistance, it gives hope and helps restore dignity, reinforcing a sense of community where everyone is valued.
Who Can Apply?
If you meet the following criteria, you are eligible to apply for the Labor of Love program:
- Own and reside in your home for 1 year, without intention to sell or vacate for the next 3-5 years.
- Reside in one of the following communities: Dayton, Grand Ridge, Harding, Leland, Marseilles, Naplate, Norway, Ottawa, Seneca, Serena, Sheridan, or Wedron.
- Have a combined household income that does not exceed the income threshold. Proof of annual gross income for each household member is required for verification.
- Find yourself physically or financially unable to independently complete necessary home repairs or improvements.
If you meet these criteria, we encourage you to apply and allow Labor of Love to help improve the safety and security of your home.
Is there an income threshold?
- 1 person: $40,000
- 2 persons (age 18-64): $48,000
- 2 persons (age 65+): $50,000
- 4 persons: $65,000
* For households exceeding 5 occupants, contact the United Way ELC office at 815.434.4003
Where Can I Find an Application?
Applications for the 2025 Labor of Love program will be available on May 27, 2025.
Applications are available for pick-up at the following locations:
- All local financial institutions, including drive-thru lanes
- City and Township offices
- Libraries
- United Way of Eastern LaSalle County office
What are the steps to apply?
- Complete and return the application along with the required supporting documents.
- Complete in-person interview to review needs and application.
- Home preview with a Labor of Love volunteer to assess repairs.
- Notification of approval by September 15.
What documents do I need to apply?
- Copy of Property deed or title
- Copy of Mortgage statement (if applicable)
- Copy of Current real estate tax bill
- Proof of homeowner insurance. This can be a receipt showing current payment or letter from insured of current status.
- Copies of last 2 months bank statements
- Proof of income for all people over age 18 living in home.
- This includes SSI benefit statements; investment income statements; and copy of 2024 tax returns
What are the dates and deadlines?
- May 27: Applications Open
- Jul. 30: Applications Due
- Sept. 15: Approval Notification
- Oct. 4: 2025 Labor of Love
34
Years Labor of Love has provided home repairs
990
Homes repaired through the Labor of Love program
10/4
2025 Labor of Love Date
Voices of Impact: Hear from Our Community
We were like you—we volunteered our time and energy to gladly help. We never expected to be on the receiving end of Labor of Love, but as negative life changes began happening, finances, home maintenance and emotional health took a dive. People in our situation feel a loss of these things over time. You gave us more than what paint, new doors, lights and all the other things you fix do. You gave us some pride back and sense of joy, comfort, and dignity.
Thank you to our Signature Sponsor!
Constellation Energy, Signature Sponsor of Labor of Love for 20 years, generously provides necessary funding and teams of volunteers to lead repairs on 4-6 homes each year.
Get Involved!
Volunteers have been the heartbeat of Labor of Love for over 30 years. The only skill necessary is the desire to help someone in our community.
Getting involved with Labor of Love is your opportunity to be a hands-on force for positive change in Eastern LaSalle County. Whether you’re a skilled tradesperson or simply someone with a passion for making a difference, your commitment on this one-day home repair blitz can transform lives. Join our dedicated team of volunteers, roll up your sleeves, and contribute to creating safer and more secure living spaces for individuals and families facing challenges.
Your involvement goes beyond repairs; it’s a meaningful investment in building a community where everyone has a place to call home. Join us in making a lasting impact through Labor of Love.