Following is some additional information about volunteering for a construction project:

Experience: Prior construction experience is not required to participate in our project.  In many cases, an experienced leader will be paired with one or more beginners.

Ages: We invite families to participate in our projects.  Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.  Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an Adult.

Staffing: Some portions of our projects may be staffed by local contractors.  In this case, we might not have the need for a specific skill set, however we would still encourage you to volunteer.  If you are interested in volunteering, but prefer to participate in a specific role, please note this on the volunteer application.

Safety: Our highest priority during the build is safety.  You will be required to have the proper shoes.  Hard hats, safety glasses and gloves will be provided at the site.  We also recommend sunscreen. Please review our Safety Policy prior to your work day.  Do not work if you are on any medications that impair judgement or your physical condition.  Alcohol is not allowed.

Release Form: A release form must be signed prior to working on our project.  A copy of Release Form can be found by clicking here. Volunteers under the age of 18 must have a Release Form signed by their legal guardian.  A copy of the Minor's Release Form can be found by clicking here.

Tools and Equipment: If you have your own tools, you are welcome to bring them to the site, however they aren't required.  However, they will have to be approved for use (proper safety items checked) prior to use on the site.  Make sure the tools are properly marked with identification.  Habitat cannot be responsible for lost or damaged tools.  If you have a special piece of equipment that you believe may be useful, please let us know via the Contact Us page, email or phone.

Food & Refreshments: We normally break for lunch at 11:30.  We encourage volunteers to bring a small cooler with lunch items.  We provide bottled water. 

Restrooms: A port-a-potty will be provided at the construction site.

Start Times: Our work day begins at 7:30am and normally ends around 4:00 pm.  In many cases, volunteers will work a partial day, which is fine with us. If you are going to work a partial day, we encourage you to arrive for the first shift at 7:30 or the second shift at 12:00 noon.

Parking & Directions: Street parking is available around the construction site, however in some cases it may be more than a block away.  For this reason, don't plan on leaving any tools in the back of a pickup truck where they are not secured.  Habitat can not be responsible for any lost or stolen tools.  See the Build Update page for directions to the site.

Most of all, you should know that your day will be very rewarding.  You will make some new friends and have helped provide a family a hand up!