On the last Saturday of every April, National Rebuilding Day brings thousands of volunteers together to help rebuild homes and community facilities for low-income families, seniors and the disabled in the Peninsula.

The student-run High School Advisory Council (HSAC) brought Rebuilding Together in the Peninsula (RTP) was founded many years ago, but it was discontinued until this year. HSAC President sophomore Julia Reichelstein decided to start the HSAC again this year. “I think it’s really important to bring a part of RTP back into the hands of high schoolers,” Reichelstein said. “It allows students to form and sharpen their leadership roles and take action to help the community.”

The HSAC includes three students from Gunn and more from other local high schools. The team meets once every three weeks to decide how students can get involved with RTP for the annual National Rebuilding Day event.

Last year, RTP’s 4000 volunteers successfully repaired 55 homes and 23 community facilities, which summed up to repairs worth over $2 million. This year, HSAC hopes to complete 56 projects throughout Santa Clara County on Apr. 26. “I’m amazed at what is possible when one individual comes forward to help,” RTP Outreach and Development Coordinator Susie Shanahan said.