When: Habitat construction sites operate (weather permitting) Monday through Friday. Weekend workdays for volunteer groups are also available upon request. Always call the office first to determine when and where the work is taking place.
How: Call our administrative office at (828) 733-1909 at least three days before you wish to volunteer (large groups please call at least one week in advance). You will be informed about the type of work going on at each site and assigned to the work site that needs you the most.
You can also join a group, or crew, that volunteers consistently on a specific day of the week. For example, we have a regular group of volunteers every Tuesday, and have recently expanded to create a similar group on Thursdays. If you are volunteering independently, these groups are a great way to get involved.
What to Bring: Each volunteer should bring a set of basic tools: hammer, nail apron, tape measure, and a pencil. If you have other basic tools, for example a utility knife, work gloves, siding snips, etc…you may also wish to bring them. Please label all tools clearly with your name.
Skill Requirements: No specific skills, except a willingness to learn, are needed. Habitat provides an experienced crew leader on each work site who will provide on-the-job training.
Arrival on the Site: At the beginning of each work day a Habitat supervisor will start the morning with a prayer, introductions, a safety talk, and instructions. For our consistent weekday volunteers, this routine may vary.
Kids & Construction: To help ensure a safe work environment, construction volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Younger teens may help with landscaping or other non-construction tasks when there is no heavy construction work in progress. Teens, 16 and 17, may work on a construction site provided they have parental permission, but are not permitted to use power tools or work above 6ft off the ground.
Release of Liability: Each Habitat volunteer must sign a Release of Liability form agreeing to take personal responsibility for any accidents or injuries on the job. Most individuals have a personal health insurance plan that covers them while engaged in volunteer work. However, you should verify your coverage prior to coming to the work site. Minors must have a parent or guardian sign the Release of Waiver of Liability.
Groups: If you have a group that wishes to volunteer, please call (828) 733-1909 to speak with a staff member. The group schedule is determined on a rolling basis, thus we welcome inquiries year round.
Community Service: Individuals who have community service requirements can perform their hours at Habitat. For Habitat to provide documentation of service, prior arrangements must be made by calling (828) 733-1909.
