I want to volunteer for Habitat for Humanity. How do I get involved?

Call our office at 402 721-8771 to find out where we’ll be working during the building season. We generally work Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting. Individuals are welcome to go directly to the work site. If it’s your first time working construction for Habitat, you’ll be asked to sign a waiver. Be sure to sign in on the volunteer log, too. You’ll be joining members of our regular work crew in doing tasks assigned by our construction supervisor. If your group (church, service club, workplace) would like to schedule a date to work construction together, contact us at 402 721-8771 or jessica@fremonthabitat.org, and we’ll get your group scheduled.

What kind of work will I do at the construction site?

Weather and other factors make predicting construction work a challenge. We try to let you know in advance with messages on our answering machine (402 721-8771) what we plan to do.

Some examples of what you might do include the following:

Framing Roofing Installing insulation Installing cabinets and closets Painting Light cleaning Loading and unloading materials
Whatever job you're assigned, make sure you're comfortable with it! If you are unable to complete a task, or feel concerned (not everyone wants to be on the roof!), tell the construction supervisor. You'll either be given another project or asked to break for a bit while crew leaders prepare for the next phase.

Do I need construction experience to help build?

No. It’s great if you have construction skills, but it’s not necessary. In addition to skilled labor, most work days there is work for unskilled volunteers as well. Our construction supervisor and other volunteers will help you find a job to do. You may even pick up some new skills you can use the next time you volunteer. If you 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.

How old do you have to be to volunteer for construction?

Due to insurance regulations, you must be at least 16 years old to work on a construction site. You won’t be allowed to use power tools until you are 18. If you are 16 or 17, you and your parent or guardian will have to sign and submit the waiver for minors before you work. Please Click Here for a Release and Waiver of Liability for a Minor/Dependent

What should I wear?

At a construction site, wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty, torn, or even ruined. Closed-toe shoes are a must, so put on your sneakers or work boots. Always dress for the weather, since we work outside or in an uncooled or unheated house.

Will I have time off for lunch?

Free coffee, cold drinks and treats are served mid-morning on every work day to all workers. On Saturdays free lunches are served to all workers. On other work days, we take time off around noon to eat on our own.

What should I bring?

You don’t need to bring anything. The tools you need will be available at the construction site. Other items like sun block, hat, sunglasses, and perhaps a camera all will come in handy. You are welcome to bring your personal tools if you like. 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

Can I volunteer even if I can’t build?

Yes. Habitat needs volunteers to work on many tasks, including working on special events, mentoring families, fundraising, preparing mailings, and providing coffees and lunches at the construction site. Information about current volunteer opportunities is available by contacting our office at 402 721-8771 or jessica@fremonthabitat.org.