Taking their cue from the old idea of "barn-raising," they recruited skilled and unskilled volunteers who agreed to give up one Saturday in April to come together and blitz repair the deteriorating homes in their community. The event was such a success that the group decided to repeat it every year. The name "Christmas in April" was conferred in Midland when one of the early recipients told a reporter that receiving this gift was like having "Christmas in April."

News of the program grew and it became clear that the need for the services provided by Rebuilding Together NW Suburban, NFP existed in every city in America and, in 1988, "Christmas in April USA" was officially launched. Now, over 260 Rebuilding Together NW Suburban, NFP programs operate in more than 865 cities and towns in all 50 states. In 2003, 8,050 homes and nonprofit facilities were rehabilitated across the USA - mostly in the month of April. [Need updated numbers]

Northwest Surburban Chicago history
In 1992, The Northwest Association of Realtors, after reading of the success of the Rebuilding Together NW Suburban, NFP program nationwide, formed a local committee within their organization. The Realtors banded together to find a deserving recipient. The Realtors' Board financially supported the efforts to be undertaken and helped gather more resources. Early that April morning, the Realtors and other volunteers gathered for their instructions and together they drove off and worked as a team to rehabilitate the first two houses in Des Plaines and Palatine Township.

Since that time, Rebuilding Together NW Suburban, NFP broke off from the Northwest Association of Realtors to form an independent affiliate, but the NWAR has always been a major supporter of Rebuilding Together NW Suburban, NFP. Over the years, the Rebuilding Together NW Suburban, NFP Northwest Suburban Chicago affiliate has rehabilitated over 156 homes and 15 non-profit facilities.