Do we have to have construction experience to participate?
No, you don't need any experience because all skill levels are welcome and appreciated! We have trained site supervisors whose job it is to empower everyone who shows up at the site. We just ask that you pack your smile and positive attitude!
Is there anything we can do that does not involve working on construction?
There are a lot of key things that you can do to help us. Please visit our Volunteer Opportunities page for a list and explanation.
What is your volunteer schedule?
Our construction workweek is Tuesday through Saturday, 8 am to 4 pm (Wednesdays begin at 9:30 am). We are busy year-round! Our ReStores are open Monday through Saturday and need volunteers from 10 am to 6 pm on weekdays, 4 pm on Satudays. For a current construction schedule, please call Emma at 588-5240 or email ewhelan@habitatkent.org. You may also visit Volunteer Hub to see an online version.
How many people can we bring?
Our construction site provides opportunities for up to 15 volunteers. Larger groups may be directred to multiple sites but can choose to start the day at one location and regroup again together for lunch. The space in our warehouse can accomodate up to 15 volunteers as well, though smaller groups are more comfortable. The ReStores usually prefer small groups of around 5 volunteers, although certain projects may accomodate larger numbers.
How do we Sponsor a house?
We're glad you asked! We have a house sponsorship program for groups who wish to fulfill a combination of both volunteering and financial support. There are many options, however, please contact a member of the Volunteer Services Team for more information. As a nonprofit organization, Habitat for Humanity relies on our local community to support us with volunteer labor, but also through in-kind donations of materials and skilled labor, financial sponsorships and advocacy to raise awareness about the need for affordable housing in our community. Our Habitat house sponsorships range from $1,000 for a weekday build to $75,000 for a full house sponsorship. Our Resource Development team will work with you to determine what combination of funding and volunteering best suits your needs and desires. Please contact Barbara Benda, Director of Development, at (616) 774-2431 Ext. 229 or bbenda@habitatkent.org to discuss options.
This is our first time volunteering with Habitat. What should we expect?
We're glad you decided to volunteer with us! You can expect a day of fun, learning and hard work. To begin the day, a member of the Volunteer Services Team may stop by to introduce themselves and drop off hot coffee. Your group membesr will sign in and fill out a waiver (if not completed ahead of time). We'll give a breif orientation about Habitat, our homebuyers and our homes, then make sure everyone is familiar with the safety guidelines. As a faith-based nonprofit, we start every day with prayer and invite anyone who is interested to join us. After that, the Site Supervisors will explain the tasks for the day and help you get to work! We do our best to provide a positive volunteering experience and are always open to suggestions or concerns. Please let us know if we do not meet your expectations.
We are licensed professionals. Are our services needed?
Absolutely! Skilled carpenters and builders are highly encouraged to sign up. Also, anyone licensed in the trades (framing, plumbing, electrical, flooring, HVAC, landscaping, etc.) may make an in-kind donation of their services. This is tax deductable. For more information on donating in-kind services or goods, contact Roger Peterman at (616) 774-2431 Ext. 233 or rpeterman@habitatkent.org.
Do we have to sign up?
Yes, we ask that you do. Signing up as a group helps us keep track of our volunteers and we want to make your volunteering experience a great one! We love to meet our volunteers and we'll often introduce ourselves and take pictures of your day with us.
How do we sign up?
Please contact Joni, Manager of Volunteer Services, at (616) 588-5224 or jjessup@habitatkent.org.
Can our children participate?
Minors age 16 and 17 are welcome on our construction site with some limitations. In recognition of federal labor laws regarding children and the potential risk to children's safety on a construction site, no one under the age of 14 is allowed on a construction site while construction is going on. Further, no one under the age of 18 will be allowed to use power tools, motor vehicles or work from a height of six feet or more. If you are under the age of 18, you are required to have a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian. This must be turned into the Site Supervisor at the job site. No minors are allowed on any job site until this form is turned in.
Will lunch be provided?
No, lunches will not be provided unless you are specifically told otherwise by Joni. You should plan to bring a lunch as it may be inconvenient to drive to a store or restaurant over the lunch break. Water bottles may be refilled on site. Feel free to bring along snacks. Occasionally, some groups choose to provide lunch for their volunteer "event". If that is the case, please have your team leader coordinate those arrangements with our Volunteer Services Team in advance to avoid conflicts or duplication.
Will there be restrooms on the construction site?
Yes, there will be a portable restroom available at the construction site.
Should we bring tools?
Habitat will loan tools to volunteers who do not have their own, but volunteers are encouraged to bring the following if possible: tool belt or nail apron, a hammer, pencil, work gloves, utility knife and tape measure.
What should we wear?
Dress modestly in layers appropriate to the weather with a water-resistant outer layer if it is supposed to rain. Bring a hat to shade you from the sun or a winter cap that can fit under a hard hat. Assume that the house where you will be working is not air-conditioned or heated. Shirts must be worn at all times. It is important to waer sturdy closed-toed shoes at a minimum and hard-soled and steel-toed boots if available. Dress casual and wear old clothes as you will get dirty! Be sure to remember sunscreen or bug spray when appropriate.
Where do we go and where do we park?
Take note of the address where you have signed up to volunteer and find directions if you are unfamiliar with the area. Please arrive at the beginning of the shift - which is 8 am, 9:30 am on Wednesdays - park on the street, make sure not to block mailboxes or driveways, and then look for the site construction trailer. The Site Supervisor or a Site Host will be available to help you fill out a waiver, sign in, make a name tag and provide you with a hard hat and safety glasses.
What if we can't stay for the whole shift?
Groups are asked to sign up for a full shift on Saturdays. During the week you can work a full shift or half day shift (8 am - noon or 12:30 pm - 4 pm). Our Site Supervisors and volunteers break for lunch from noon to 12:30 pm. If a half-shift is the only option for your group, painting trim in a warehouse or volunteering at one of our ReStores may be a great fit!
How much physical intensity should we expect?
Physical demands will depend on the phase of construction; please review the Volunteer Opportunities page for task descriptions and estimated levels of labor intensity. No one will be expected to lift or climb beyond their comfort zone. Each day includes miscellaneous jobs that can be performed by those who have some physical limitations. Serving as a site host is a great way to be on site with minimal physical activity. Below are some safety tips; Site Supervisors will inform you of any specific dangers at the job site.
Your safety is our most important concern!
- Drink plenty of water; all construction trailers have an ample supply available to you.
- Don't leave tools where they can fall or create a hazzard (like on top of a ladder).
- Don't throw things off of high places without checking below.
- Wear your hard hat as directed by your Site Supervisor in the morning safety instructions.
- Never set a board down with nails sticking out; pull them out first.
- Stay clear of others carrying items.
- Don't overload a roof or scaffolding.
- Don't operate a power tool unless you know how to safely use it.
- Make sure ladders are anchored at the base.
- Wear eye and ear protection when around and or using power tools.
- Do not attempt to lift heavy objects without assistance.
What if there's inclement weather during our shift?
We do work in the rain and snow but not in stormy or dangerous weather. If a the start of the shift there is any question, please call Joni on her cell (616) 262-6974 for updated information. There are usually alternate jobs such as painting trim at our warehouse or indoor work on a different site.
Who do we notify in the unlikely event our group needs to cancel?
Please contact Joni, Manger of Volunteer Services, at (616) 588-5224 or jjessup@habitatkent.org. You may also call her cell phone at (616) 262-6974.
Do we have to have construction experience to participate?
No, you don't need any experience because all skill levels are welcome and appreciated! We have trained site supervisors whose job it is to empower everyone who shows up at the site. We just ask that you pack your smile and positive attitude!
Is there anything we can do that does not involve working on construction?
There are a lot of key things that you can do to help us. Please visit our Volunteer Opportunities page for a list and explanation.
What is your volunteer schedule?
Our construction workweek is Tuesday through Saturday, 8 am to 4 pm (Wednesdays begin at 9:30 am). We are busy year-round! Our ReStores are open Monday through Saturday and need volunteers from 10 am to 6 pm on weekdays, 4 pm on Satudays. For a current construction schedule, please call Emma at 588-5240 or email ewhelan@habitatkent.org. You may also visit Volunteer Hub to see an online version.
How many people can we bring?
Our construction site provides opportunities for up to 15 volunteers. Larger groups may be directred to multiple sites but can choose to start the day at one location and regroup again together for lunch. The space in our warehouse can accomodate up to 15 volunteers as well, though smaller groups are more comfortable. The ReStores usually prefer small groups of around 5 volunteers, although certain projects may accomodate larger numbers.
How do we Sponsor a house?
We're glad you asked! We have a house sponsorship program for groups who wish to fulfill a combination of both volunteering and financial support. There are many options, however, please contact a member of the Volunteer Services Team for more information. As a nonprofit organization, Habitat for Humanity relies on our local community to support us with volunteer labor, but also through in-kind donations of materials and skilled labor, financial sponsorships and advocacy to raise awareness about the need for affordable housing in our community. Our Habitat house sponsorships range from $1,000 for a weekday build to $75,000 for a full house sponsorship. Our Resource Development team will work with you to determine what combination of funding and volunteering best suits your needs and desires. Please contact Barbara Benda, Director of Development, at (616) 774-2431 Ext. 229 or bbenda@habitatkent.org to discuss options.
This is our first time volunteering with Habitat. What should we expect?
We're glad you decided to volunteer with us! You can expect a day of fun, learning and hard work. To begin the day, a member of the Volunteer Services Team may stop by to introduce themselves and drop off hot coffee. Your group membesr will sign in and fill out a waiver (if not completed ahead of time). We'll give a breif orientation about Habitat, our homebuyers and our homes, then make sure everyone is familiar with the safety guidelines. As a faith-based nonprofit, we start every day with prayer and invite anyone who is interested to join us. After that, the Site Supervisors will explain the tasks for the day and help you get to work! We do our best to provide a positive volunteering experience and are always open to suggestions or concerns. Please let us know if we do not meet your expectations.
We are licensed professionals. Are our services needed?
Absolutely! Skilled carpenters and builders are highly encouraged to sign up. Also, anyone licensed in the trades (framing, plumbing, electrical, flooring, HVAC, landscaping, etc.) may make an in-kind donation of their services. This is tax deductable. For more information on donating in-kind services or goods, contact Roger Peterman at (616) 774-2431 Ext. 233 or rpeterman@habitatkent.org.
Do we have to sign up?
Yes, we ask that you do. Signing up as a group helps us keep track of our volunteers and we want to make your volunteering experience a great one! We love to meet our volunteers and we'll often introduce ourselves and take pictures of your day with us.
How do we sign up?
Please contact Joni, Manager of Volunteer Services, at (616) 588-5224 or jjessup@habitatkent.org.
Can our children participate?
Minors age 16 and 17 are welcome on our construction site with some limitations. In recognition of federal labor laws regarding children and the potential risk to children's safety on a construction site, no one under the age of 14 is allowed on a construction site while construction is going on. Further, no one under the age of 18 will be allowed to use power tools, motor vehicles or work from a height of six feet or more. If you are under the age of 18, you are required to have a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian. This must be turned into the Site Supervisor at the job site. No minors are allowed on any job site until this form is turned in.
Will lunch be provided?
No, lunches will not be provided unless you are specifically told otherwise by Joni. You should plan to bring a lunch as it may be inconvenient to drive to a store or restaurant over the lunch break. Water bottles may be refilled on site. Feel free to bring along snacks. Occasionally, some groups choose to provide lunch for their volunteer "event". If that is the case, please have your team leader coordinate those arrangements with our Volunteer Services Team in advance to avoid conflicts or duplication.
Will there be restrooms on the construction site?
Yes, there will be a portable restroom available at the construction site.
Should we bring tools?
Habitat will loan tools to volunteers who do not have their own, but volunteers are encouraged to bring the following if possible: tool belt or nail apron, a hammer, pencil, work gloves, utility knife and tape measure.
What should we wear?
Dress modestly in layers appropriate to the weather with a water-resistant outer layer if it is supposed to rain. Bring a hat to shade you from the sun or a winter cap that can fit under a hard hat. Assume that the house where you will be working is not air-conditioned or heated. Shirts must be worn at all times. It is important to waer sturdy closed-toed shoes at a minimum and hard-soled and steel-toed boots if available. Dress casual and wear old clothes as you will get dirty! Be sure to remember sunscreen or bug spray when appropriate.
Where do we go and where do we park?
Take note of the address where you have signed up to volunteer and find directions if you are unfamiliar with the area. Please arrive at the beginning of the shift - which is 8 am, 9:30 am on Wednesdays - park on the street, make sure not to block mailboxes or driveways, and then look for the site construction trailer. The Site Supervisor or a Site Host will be available to help you fill out a waiver, sign in, make a name tag and provide you with a hard hat and safety glasses.
What if we can't stay for the whole shift?
Groups are asked to sign up for a full shift on Saturdays. During the week you can work a full shift or half day shift (8 am - noon or 12:30 pm - 4 pm). Our Site Supervisors and volunteers break for lunch from noon to 12:30 pm. If a half-shift is the only option for your group, painting trim in a warehouse or volunteering at one of our ReStores may be a great fit!
How much physical intensity should we expect?
Physical demands will depend on the phase of construction; please review the Volunteer Opportunities page for task descriptions and estimated levels of labor intensity. No one will be expected to lift or climb beyond their comfort zone. Each day includes miscellaneous jobs that can be performed by those who have some physical limitations. Serving as a site host is a great way to be on site with minimal physical activity. Below are some safety tips; Site Supervisors will inform you of any specific dangers at the job site.
Your safety is our most important concern!
- Drink plenty of water; all construction trailers have an ample supply available to you.
- Don't leave tools where they can fall or create a hazzard (like on top of a ladder).
- Don't throw things off of high places without checking below.
- Wear your hard hat as directed by your Site Supervisor in the morning safety instructions.
- Never set a board down with nails sticking out; pull them out first.
- Stay clear of others carrying items.
- Don't overload a roof or scaffolding.
- Don't operate a power tool unless you know how to safely use it.
- Make sure ladders are anchored at the base.
- Wear eye and ear protection when around and or using power tools.
- Do not attempt to lift heavy objects without assistance.
What if there's inclement weather during our shift?
We do work in the rain and snow but not in stormy or dangerous weather. If a the start of the shift there is any question, please call Joni on her cell (616) 262-6974 for updated information. There are usually alternate jobs such as painting trim at our warehouse or indoor work on a different site.
Who do we notify in the unlikely event our group needs to cancel?
Please contact Joni, Manger of Volunteer Services, at (616) 588-5224 or jjessup@habitatkent.org. You may also call her cell phone at (616) 262-6974.