Habitat Omaha’s “HabiBlog”

Q: I want to volunteer for Habitat for Humanity. How do I get involved?
It’s easy! We offer several ways to sign up to volunteer. Register any hour of the day by clicking on the image below.

At VolunteerUP, you can create an account, pick your days and hours, and print off the forms needed to become a Habitat volunteer.

If you prefer, you can also contact our Volunteer Manager Melissa directly, either by phone at (402) 457-5657 ext. 111, or by email at volunteer@omahahabitat.org.

Q: What kind of work will I do at the construction site? 
Though we’ll try to let you know what you’ll be doing before your work day arrives, weather and other factors make predicting construction work a challenge. Some examples of what you might do include the following:
-         Framing
-         Roofing
-         Installing insulation
-         Installing cabinets and closets
-         Landscaping
-         Painting
-         Light cleaning
-         Loading and unloading of materials
Whatever job you’re assigned, make sure you’re comfortable with it! If you are unable to complete a task, or feel afraid (not everyone wants to be on the roof!), tell your crew leader. You’ll either be given another project or asked to break for a bit while crew leaders prepare for the next phase.

Q. Do I need construction experience to help build?
No! It’s great if you have construction skills but certainly not necessary. Your crew leader for the day will ensure that you receive training for the task at hand. Before you know it, you’ll have picked up handy new skills you can use next time you volunteer!

For those who do have expertise in some aspect of construction, let us know! Though we can’t guarantee that we’ll have work in that area on the day you’d like to volunteer, we’ll certainly do everything we can to put your skills to good use.

Q: What should I wear?
If you’re volunteering at a construction site or at our ReStore, wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, torn, or even ruined. Close-toed shoes are a must, so put on your sneakers or work boots.

If you’re volunteering at our office, staff members wear business casual. We just ask that you refrain from wearing overly revealing or offensive clothing.

Q: What should I bring?
Forms. These are available online at VolunteerUp. Each volunteer must complete and sign a Release and Waiver form. Volunteers who are 16 and 17 years of age must fill out and sign a Minor Waiver form and have a parent or guardian sign as well.
Tools. You are welcome to bring your personal tools. Please make sure to label them! We suggest bringing:  
-         Hammer (at least 16 oz.)
-         Tape measure
-         Nail apron or tool belt
-         Safety glasses
-         Gloves
-         Hard hat
If you don’t have the above items, don’t worry! The tools you need will also be available at the construction site.
Other items. Water, sun block, hat, sunglasses, and a camera all will come in handy.

Q: What will I do at the ReStore?
ReStore volunteers can help with the following:
-         Organizing
-         Light cleaning
-         Loading/unloading trucks with donated items
-         Customer service
-         Answering phones
-         Running the cash register
To volunteer at the ReStore, call (402) 934-1033.

Q: What will I do at the office?
Office volunteers can help with data entry, mailings, filing, and answering phones.

Q: How old do I have to be to volunteer?
For construction volunteers, everyone must be 16 or older. At the ReStore, volunteers must be 14 or older. If you are younger than 14, don’t give up! Contact us, because other opportunities do come up for all ages.