There are several bricks in my foundation where the mortar has turned to powder and washed away. Is a professional required to fix this, or is this a job I can tackle myself? Thank you.

If you are a handy guy you sure can try. Your bricks need to be tuck pointed. This site may help get you started. Bricks & Brass: Pointing (http://www.bricksandbrass.co.uk/deselem/extwall/point.htm)

How to repair vertical crack in cinder block wall

Mormally you should start your own new post if this is s different question. Tacking on to someone else post sometimes gets confusing. Anyway, so your cement block wall cracked but did it follow the mortart joints or crack right through the block? This is a sign of foundation settling and even a good patch may reopen later. Get back to us with your answer and we'll see if we can help. Start a new post for yourself.