On Tuesday, January 20, 2009, the St. Bernard Project welcomed home its 175th family live on MTV as a part of its “Be the Change: Live for the Inaugural”. Robin and Denise Albers, along with several family members, friends, and several hundred volunteers walked into the door of their completed home. The home they will be able to live in after moving six times since Hurricane Katrina changed their lives.

MTV’s coverage was in coordination with SBP’s Rebuild the Dream – 24 Hour Build. Volunteers began working at 10 p.m. Monday evening at two build sites as a means of honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., as well as alert President Obama of the enduring housing needs in the New Orleans area.

By 9:00pm on Tuesday, volunteers and community members gathered on the street to participate in the filming, and welcome Robin home. Robin’s tear-filled entrance touched not only the volunteers and staff at the house, but the millions of MTV viewers across the world who tuned into the show.

St. Bernard Project would thank all of the sponsors of the event including American Airlines, Allfax, United Way, and Entergy, who outfitted the home in energy efficient appliances, paint and insulation.

Didn’t get to see the show? Click Here to watch as Robin views her home for the first time.

Read the Times-Picayune article of the event.

Although it was a great experience for SBP to work with MTV, there are many families who haven’t had the opportunity Robin had. There are several ways you can help more families such as Robin's get back home!

Volunteer- With more than 1,000 families, 73% of which are homeowners, still living in FEMA trailers, volunteers are needed to work on homes. Visit our volunteer page to find out more!

Donate- SBP can rebuild a home for $12,000. If you cannot contribute that much, please consider sponsoring a portion of a home. Visit our donation page for details.

Host a Fundraiser – Can’t volunteer but want to contribute? Please consider hosting a Mardi Gras Fundraiser in your hometown for SBP. Click Here for tips and resources.