ABOUT SDHFH - Volunteer

How can I help?
Donors and volunteers are the foundation of Habitat's work in San Diego County. We welcome everyone to join us in many ways to build hope for our family partners in need. Volunteers may volunteer as little or as much as they wish. There is no minimum requirement for volunteering, although some administrative tasks and committees may have their own time requirements.

What types of volunteer opportunities exist?
Volunteers are the lifeblood of Habitat and we are grateful for the hours our volunteers donate. We need your help to make our vision of affordable housing a reality. We need your help in accomplishing the goal of ending substandard housing. You can help by volunteering in the following areas:
· Construction sites
· ReStore
· Family Services
· Office needs and administrative duties
· Event Committee
· Newsletter Committee
· Grant writing assistance

Please call our volunteer coordinator Carolyn Bollman at 619-283-4663 ext. 316 or email carolynb@sdhfh.org to answer volunteer questions.

How do I volunteer on the construction site?
To volunteer on the build sites, please call our volunteer coordinator Carolyn Bollman at 619-283-4663 ext. 316 or email carolynb@sdhfh.org to answer questions or schedule a volunteer date. Volunteers must be scheduled in advance of any work date. To inquire about corporate team building opportunities, please call Elizabeth Neubrand 619-283-4663 ext 317.

Can individuals volunteer?

Yes, volunteers are what really make our houses affordable. Young or old, newcomers or natives, laborers or office workers, all faiths or no faiths, we all join together to make affordable homes a reality in San Diego for families in need. Volunteers are needed at the home building sites, at the Restore and in the office. There are volunteer needs at various times during the week, as well as Saturdays.

Can groups volunteer?
Yes, congregations, corporations, military groups, trade associations, civic organizations, clubs, youth groups and other groups are an integral part of Habitat volunteer program. Working at the ReStore or on a construction site is a great way to build teamwork and spirit within in your group as well as build stronger friendships and meet new community members. Groups are generally limited in size to about 12 at each location (construction site or Restore).

What are the construction days and hours?
Saturdays as well as certain days during the week. Construction hours are normally from 8:30am to 2:30pm. Midweek construction volunteers are much critically needed at both the ReStore and construction sites.

Do I have to have construction skills to volunteer on a construction site?
No, all we ask is a willingness to learn and assist us in achieving our mission of building affordable housing. We have house leaders skilled in home construction and working with volunteers with various skill levels. Come and learn how to build a house!

Do I need to bring anything to the construction site?
Sturdy shoes, work gloves, a hat, sunscreen, water, lunch and a willingness to work and learn. Tools are provided but you may bring your own if you desire.

How old do I have to be to volunteer?
The minimum age to volunteer on a construction site is 16. Both individuals and youth groups are encourage lending a helping hand. Each youth under the age of 18 must have a Minors Permission form signed by their parent or guardian allowing permission to do volunteer work. To comply with legal requirements and to provide proper supervision, there must be a minimum of one adult for every two youth under the age of 18.

How do I hold a fundraising event to benefit San Diego Habitat for Humanity?
Make a long-term investment in the community! Please help Habitat for Humanity build affordable homes for low-income families. Partnering with Habitat can come in many forms but the most popular is volunteering and/or financial support. We welcome an array of ideas from the community for fundraising events.

In sponsoring or co-sponsoring a Habitat house, businesses, churches, individuals, and other organizations partner with low-income families to provide a safe and affordable place to live. Since building a home takes time and effort, the staff at San Diego Habitat serves to support sponsors, volunteers, and families throughout the construction process. Sponsoring and building a new home can be a fun and exciting experience for everyone involved, and has been used by corporations and organizations to promote teamwork and communication among its employees.

For additional information on the benefits of sponsoring a Habitat House, please contact Elizabeth, Director of Development & Community Affairs 619-283-4663 ext 317 or email at elizabethn@sdhfh.org.