Revitalizing communities at this years Rock the Block event in Port Huron

The National Habitat for Humanity Rock the Block event is a community-driven initiative to unite volunteers, residents, and organizations to revitalize neighborhoods. This event focuses on home repairs, street clean-ups, landscaping, and other improvement projects, aiming to enhance the quality of life for residents and foster a sense of community pride.

"Rock the Block isn't just about fixing up homes; it's about building relationships and strengthening our community," says Ernest Werth-Toward, CEO of Blue Water Habitat for Humanity.
Ernest Werth-Toward, CEO of Blue Water Habitat for Humanity.
16th Street Park, located at the intersection of 16th Street and Dove Street, is the epicenter for this year's Rock the Block event. The park's central location makes it easily accessible and reflects the community-oriented spirit of Port Huron.

This event is possible through collaboration with the Blue Water Habitat for Humanity, Blue Water Area Chamber, the City of Port Huron, and Port Huron’s Parks and Recreation Department.

"Our focus involves close relationships with the mayor, city manager, and parks and recreation director. These relationships have been crucial for this event," Werth-Toward noted. "Their support helps secure grant dollars and funding from private foundations throughout the year."

The objective of this year's event is community engagement by engaging residents, businesses, and volunteers in hands-on projects that improve the neighborhood.
 
"Our first Rock the Block event was focused on a residential area where we worked on three homes. This year, we will be working on at least ten homes on one side of the park," Werth-Toward says.

Volunteers will work on home repairs, landscaping, and general beautification projects.

"The event on the 17th will involve repairs and modifications to homes, like porch or roof repairs," Werth-Toward says. "Anyone applying to Rock the Block for assistance doesn't pay anything. This program is designed to help those in need without adding financial burdens."

Volunteers staining a porch at the 2023 Rock the Block event.

"Key volunteers serve as site supervisors, while others might be painting, doing yard work, or redoing a porch to make it safe and up to code," Werth-Toward says. "It's a collaborative effort where everyone plays a crucial role."

They will also be planting trees, flowers, and shrubs, and maintaining gardens through mulching.

"It's fascinating to see business leaders, like CEOs, out there with their teams, getting their hands dirty and working alongside the community," Werth-Toward says.

Volunteers will also clean streets, parks, and public spaces to create a safer and more welcoming environment.

The long-term goal of events like this is to strengthen community bonds, foster ongoing collaboration, and inspire future volunteer efforts.

"Our goal is to assist as many families as possible. Even if they aren't signed up for the event, we make sure they have the contact information for further help," Werth-Toward says. "Our commitment extends far beyond a single day."
One of the homes getting maintenance at the 2023 Rock the Block event.
Reflecting on past events, Werth-Toward shared, "Our first Rock the Block was an eye-opener. We didn't anticipate the level of enthusiasm and commitment from the community. It was overwhelming in the best way possible." 

He adds, "Each year, we learn something new and try to improve. This year's event is shaping up to be our best yet, thanks to the incredible support from our partners and volunteers."

Looking ahead, Werth-Toward expressed his hopes for the future of Rock the Block. "We want this event to be a catalyst for ongoing community improvement projects. The goal is to make Rock the Block a staple in Port Huron, something that people look forward to every year." 

"We hope to expand our reach and help even more families in need. The impact of this event goes beyond the physical improvements; it builds a stronger, more connected community."

This year's Rock the Block event begins on August 17 at 16th Street Park from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.