Construction Opportunities for Individuals

Thank you for your interest in our volunteer program!

When can I volunteer?
Habitat construction work sites operate Tuesday (9am-4pm) and Wednesday through Saturday (8am-4pm.)  However, during July and August volunteer groups work from 7am -12:30pm. 

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, wear sturdy shoes, bring the tools listed on the Construction Instructions page and have a great time!  You don't need to call ahead unless you have a question. 

How do I know where to volunteer?
Use the chart below to see how you can find out where we are working each week.

Can I sign up to volunteer several weeks or months ahead?
Sorry we are not able to offer that amenity.  On Thursday of each week groups finalize their volunteer numbers with us and so only then do we know where individual volunteers are most needed.   Volunteers during the week are assigned a location to work each Tuesday when we can see the progress that was made on the previous Saturday.   

What is my commitment?
The commitment is up to you. Volunteer just once or as often as you wish. However, you will not receive phone calls or emails to volunteer in construction.  

What if I can only come on Saturday?
That's great!  Saturday is our big volunteer day with often more than 150 people on sites.

What's it like to volunteer on weekdays?
Habitat Charlotte is blessed to have a wonderful group of regular weekday volunteers. These folks do a lot of the preparatory and finishing work so our build sites are ready for Saturday, our busiet volunteer day.  Often, the same groups of volunteers come the same day every week, enjoying the long term relationships they develop with other volunteers and with our staff. Nonetheless, new additions are always welcome and we encourage you to use this web page to find out where we are working each week.

What skills are required?
No specific skills are required, just a willingness to learn. Habitat Charlotte provides an experienced crew leader on each house build site who will provide on-the-job training. You can also read through our on-line "Construction How To's" and get a head start on learning construction tasks and safety procedures.

What tools do I need to bring?
Each volunteer must bring a set of basic tools: hammer, nail apron, tape measure and pencil.  If you have other basic tools, for example a utility knife, gloves, siding snips, etc. you may bring them as well.  Please label all of your tools with your name or initials.  Bring your own water. Expect to wear a hard hat and safety glasses.  

What will happen when I arrive at the site?
At the beginning of each workday, a 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.  You'll be asked to sign a release of liability.

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 a Minor’s Release of Liability 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 will sign the release at the Habitat Charlotte build site.

What if I need to do community service?
Community service volunteers (including school, court and lawyer-recommended) can learn more about our program at Community Service.  

Will I need to sign a 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.

What if I have a group who wants to volunteer?
Arrangements for groups to volunteer are made on a quarterly basis. Visit our Group Construction Volunteer page to learn more. To learn more about Habitat for Humanity’s sponsorship program visit the Donate page.

Other questions?
Please call 704-716-7077 or email bvangorp@habitatcharlotte.org