Frequently asked questions about volunteering

Interested in volunteering with Habitat for Humanity in the Gulf Coast recovery? Want to bring yourself or a group from your church or business? Here are some general answers to frequently asked questions about your upcoming volunteer experience. For more detailed information, contact the local Gulf Coast Habitat affiliate you are interested in volunteering with.

How can I volunteer with a Habitat affiliate along the U.S. Gulf Coast?
You should contact the Habitat affiliate directly. For details – and contact information for each affiliate rebuilding along the Gulf Coast – check out our Volunteer Opportunities page.

How long should we plan to stay?
Most volunteer groups stay for a five-day workweek. You will likely be able to arrange a shorter stay and are certainly invited to arrange a longer stay.

Is there a minimum age requirement?
Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Also, we request that there be at least one adult for every four to five youth (16- and 17-year-olds). There are safety rules in construction that prohibit younger volunteers and limit use of power tools to more mature participants.

What training do we need to volunteer?
No training is necessary. On-the-job training in safety and construction skills is provided. However, if you bring some volunteers with construction experience they can help supplement the local construction supervisors and help to make your team more productive.

What tasks do volunteers perform?
Volunteers join local affiliates in building houses with hurricane-affected families. Volunteers are needed to help with every stage of construction and to assist with building sheds, cleaning up the work site, moving materials and other tasks necessary to the reconstruction. The jobs differ depending on the affiliate and the stage of construction.

Should we bring tools? Should we bring construction materials?
Tools, building materials and safety equipment will be provided for you. If there is anything that your group is expected to bring, you will be informed by the Habitat affiliate’s volunteer coordinator prior to your arrival.

Where do we sign up?
Please visit our Volunteer Opportunities page to find more information about our specific areas. Contact information is included on that page for each Habitat affiliate rebuilding in the Gulf Coast – please contact the affiliate directly to volunteer.

What forms do we need to complete?
Any necessary forms will be sent to you by the Habitat affiliate’s volunteer coordinator prior to your trip. Volunteers will be asked to complete a volunteer information form that includes emergency contact information, doctors, insurance, health concerns, current medications, etc., and a volunteer liability release form. If there are minors traveling with your group, they will need to have a release form signed by their parent or guardian.

How should we plan on getting there?
Transportation to and from your work area, and throughout your trip, is the responsibility of your group. Most groups choose to drive, and it is recommended that larger groups use a caravan of smaller vehicles rather than a large bus. If you plan on flying, check with the Habitat affiliate’s volunteer coordinator for information about the closest airport.

Where should we stay?
The volunteer coordinator at the Habitat affiliate you will be working with can provide you with options for housing and meals. See the listing of Volunteer Opportunities for a general description.

How much does it cost to volunteer?
Program fees vary depending on where you decide to volunteer. You should expect to pay at least $100 for housing and food, in addition to transportation.

What should we pack?
The following is a basic packing list for doing volunteer work: