JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. -- In the ongoing spirit of giving back to the community, several Team Andrews members collaborated with other volunteers from the area to provide home make overs for those in need.

Christmas in April, an event which culminates each year on the last Saturday in April, combines willing laborers, donated supplies and homes in need of repair to revitalize housing for the elderly and disabled homeowners. Now in its 25th year, the organization has been improving the community since 1989.

"We are here to support the people who don't have the means, capability and family support to do extensive, necessary work on their homes," said Master Sgt. Miguel Rodriguez, 11th Civil Engineer Squadron superintendent.

More than 50 people from the community showed up to help local homeowner John Rogers revamp his three-bedroom, two-story home. Rogers, who suffers from diabetes, osteoarthritic knees and asthma, is also sight impaired and unable to perform large maintenance jobs around the house.

Over the course of four days, the crew accomplished an amount of work Rogers said was unthinkable by his own means.

They trimmed over-grown hedges, replaced two sections of gutters, painted the entire upstairs including the patio, grounded electrical outlets, repaired plumbing in the basement, fixed basement stairs, repaired and replaced doors and windows, then built a landing in the backyard.

"I'm overwhelmed with gratitude the community has come together to help in this wonderful humanitarian effort," Rogers said.

Steny Hoyer, representative of the 5th District of Maryland, also showed up to express appreciation for the long-running program and the support it receives from Joint Base Andrews.

"I want to thank you all for what you do," said Hoyer. "This program reflects what America is all about. Individuals with principles understand it is all about service."

Rodriguez, a skilled laborer and 11-year Christmas in April veteran, said volunteers don't have to be Tim the "Tool Man" Taylor-grade carpenters in order to contribute to the cause.

"If you can pick up a broom to sweep or run an electrical wire, you can volunteer with the Christmas in April Program," said Rodriguez.

Volunteers for next year's project can contact Rodriguez or the Community of Responsible Choices.