Construction Volunteers
Thank you for your interest in our volunteer program!
When can I volunteer?
Our construction work sites operate on Thursdays (8am-12pm and 1-4pm) and Saturdays (8am-1pm). Occasionally, volunteers are needed on other days for special tasks.
As an individual, do I have to sign up ahead of time?
No! We want you to be able to volunteer when it suits your schedule. Just be on time and have a great time! You don't need to call ahead unless you have a question.
How do I know where to volunteer?
Each Wednesday and Friday our “Construction Calendar” will be updated to show where we’ll be working and what we’ll be doing. You can also call the Office (252) 758-2947 the day before to get the information. Needs for special tasks are also posted on the Construction Calendar.
How should I dress?
Wear clothes that can get dirty and that are right for the weather. Avoid loose fitting or baggy clothes. Wear good work shoes. Boots are best, sneakers are OK, sandals or open-toed shoes are not allowed. A good hat and sunscreen is essential most days March to October.
What is my commitment?
The commitment is up to you. Volunteer just once or as often as you wish.
What if I can only come on Saturday?
That's great! Saturday is our big volunteer day. We usually have a group, future homeowners, and individuals all working together. Occasionally, about once a year, we wind up with more volunteers than we can possibly use on site. When this happens we give priority for work to the group members and future homeowners working on their sweat equity.
What's it like to volunteer on Thursdays?
We are blessed to have a wonderful group of regular Thursday volunteers. They enjoy the long-term relationships they develop with other volunteers and with our staff. They always welcome new additions and use this web page to find out where we are working each week. These folks do a lot of the detail and preparatory work so that house build sites are ready for the larger groups on Saturday.
What skills are required?
No specific skills, except a willingness to learn, are needed. Habitat provides an experienced crew leader on each work site who'll provide you on-the-job training. Safety is a priority on our work sites. We recommend that you review our “Safety Guidelines” in preparation for working on the site.
What tools do I need to bring?
No tools are required. If you have basic tools, for example; hammer, nail apron, tape measure, pencil, utility knife, gloves, etc., you may want to bring them. Please label all of your tools with your name or initials. Although water is usually provided, you may wish to bring your own water. Expect to wear a hard hat and safety glasses as needed.
What will happen when I arrive at the site?
You'll be asked to sign in and complete a Volunteer Waiver. You can download the Volunteer Waiver form, sign it and bring it with you or forms will be available at the site. The Habitat Site Supervisor will start the morning with a prayer, introductions, a safety talk and instructions. The group will then break into crews to work on the various building tasks.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
You must be at least 16 years old to work on a construction site. 16 and 17-year olds must have a parent or guardian sign their Volunteer Waiver and bring this form to the job site. Those under 18 must not use power tools, climb ladders, or work on scaffolding or the roof. Volunteers 18 and older can sign the release at the build site.
What if I need to do community service?
Community service volunteers are coordinated through our ReStore. See Community Service Volunteers for more information.
Who is responsible if someone gets hurt while working at Habitat?
Each Habitat volunteer must sign a Volunteer Waiver form agreeing to take personal responsibility for any accidents or injuries on the job. Your and your group’s personal health insurance plan should cover the individual while engaged in volunteer work; however, each volunteer should verify that he or she has this type of coverage prior to signing the Release form.
What if I have a group who wants to volunteer?
Arrangements for groups to volunteer are made on a quarterly basis. Visit our Construction Groups page to learn more.
More Information
If you have any questions please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Adria Williamson, at (252) 758-2947 or .