A Habitat for Humanity worker prepares the site for next week’s Rural Rally in Marysville. Photo by Shamaya Sutton

MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - Habitat for Humanity Yuba-Sutter is calling on volunteers, sponsors and community members to take part in the upcoming 2025 Rural Rally, a weeklong revitalization effort set to transform homes and strengthen community ties along Pine Street in Marysville.

Part of the national Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project, the Rural Rally brings attention to the unique housing challenges facing rural areas while mobilizing local residents to make real change. The Yuba-Sutter event will focus on 426 Pine Street, where Habitat crews and volunteers will complete a full home rehabilitation to prepare the property for a future Habitat homeowner. Beyond the main build, the effort will include a “Brush with Kindness” campaign to help nearby residents with free exterior painting, yard cleanup and small repairs — boosting neighborhood pride and safety.

The Rally begins with a Kick-Off Ceremony on Sunday, Oct. 26 at 12 p.m., followed by volunteer build days Oct. 27–29 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will conclude with a Closing Celebration on Thursday, Oct.30 at 12 p.m., all held on Pine Street. Each day will include an orientation, safety briefing and materials provided by Habitat. Volunteers of all skill levels are welcome, with no prior construction experience needed. Both the Kick-Off and Closing ceremonies are open to the public and will feature guest speakers, food and community celebrations. Advanced registration is available online.

Participants can register individually or as a team and are encouraged to meet a $500 fundraising goal to support supplies, safety equipment and meals. Volunteers must be 16 or older, with minors accompanied by a guardian. Businesses and organizations can also contribute through sponsorships ranging from $5,000 to $20,000, offering visibility, recognition and team-building opportunities. Direct donations of any size are also accepted.

According to Habitat for Humanity Yuba-Sutter, rural homes are twice as likely to be inadequate compared to those in urban areas. The Rural Rally highlights these disparities while proving that collective action can make a lasting difference. Every volunteer, donor and supporter helps create safe, affordable housing and strengthens the fabric of the Yuba-Sutter community.

To get involved, visit yubasutterhabitat.org/rural-rally or contact Habitat Yuba-Sutter at [email protected] or 530-742-2727.