Get Involved : Individual Volunteer Opportunities
Thank you for investigating volunteer opportunities at Habitat for Humanity of Spartanburg (HFHS). Our volunteers are the Hands and the Heart of the mission. Volunteering is a win - win situation. You will become part of a meaningful, rewarding opportunity that provides a decent, new home for a family in need. By volunteering, you become a part of our local network of people who are changing people's lives, fulfilling the dream of local residents to become first time homeowners.
We look forward to welcoming you as a Habitat volunteer.
Construction Volunteer Opportunities
A Habitat home in Spartanburg is typically a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom design of approximately 1,200 square feet in size. Habitat homes are built by a volunteer workforce. Construction experience is welcome, but is not a requirement. If you are looking to gain construction skills, consider volunteering at Habitat. The knowledge gained can be put to good use at your own home.
Current construction locations are in the city of Spartanburg, but HFHS does serve all of Spartanburg County. Efforts are currently underway to procure a tract(s) of land outside the city to expand the mission. In addition to gifts of money, HFHS would welcome a gift of land for future development.
Your safety is a major concern at the construction site. You will not be expected to perform any task that is out of your comfort zone with regard to personal safety. Each Habitat volunteer is encouraged to take a short Online Safety Course to familiarize themselves with a typical day at a Habitat construction site and potential hazards encountered at the worksite.
When the Lezage Training Center Online Safety Training website opens, paste Access Code W8NAEBTG into the box and Submit.
Click on the course entitled "Volunteering on a Habitat for Humanity Jobsite". The course will last about 15 minutes and consists of an online presentation followed by a short (optional) quiz.
Do I need construction experience to volunteer on a Habitat build?
NO! All skill levels are welcome. Our trained staff will help you with any task. Please note that construction is a physical task and you should be comfortable being on your feet for extended periods of time.
When is the construction site open?
The construction site is open Tuesday and Thursday for individual volunteers and we have two shifts available. The morning shift begins at 8:00am and the afternoon shift starts at 1:00pm. You may work either a morning, afternoon or the full day. We request that volunteers work a minimum of 3 hours. Saturdays are usually taken by companies, churches, colleges or oither organizations that volunteer as a group. Whenever possible, we accept individual volunteers on Saturdays. Please contact the Volunteer Coordinator to determine the availibility of work on Saturdays
How does HFHS handle lunch?
Volunteers need to bring their own lunch. You may also want to bring a snack for breaks. Water will be provided at the worksite.
What will happen after I arrive at the Habitat worksite?
Please be on time at 8:00 am or 1:00pm for the start of the shift. We will have each volunteer sign in and Waivers of Liability will be collected. Habitat is a Christian organization and each day is started with a brief prayer for the safety of our workers and the success of the mission. A short safety talk is presented that will relate to the work of the day. Then work assignments are given.
Why must I sign a Waiver of Liability and Photographic Release?
Each Habitat volunteer is required to sign a Waiver of Liability and Photographic Release. The Wavier of Liability releases Habitat for Humanity of Spartanburg from any liability in the event of accident or injury. Before signing the Waiver, please check your personal insurance to ensure that you have coverage in the event of an accident. On occasion, Habitat staff members take pictures at the construction site. This document gives us permission to use the pictures in our newsletter or other publications.
What will I be doing as a construction volunteer?
Tasks will vary dependant on the stage of construction. Common tasks include framing, roofing, siding, insulation, drywall, painting, trim work and landscaping. You may call our Construction Supervisor, Joe Walker (864 621-7122) before volunteering and he will be able to provide directions to the worksite and information on the tasks that will be done on a specific date.
Will I need to bring tools?
You should plan to bring your own gloves. Habitat will supply all other tools and safety equipment. If you have your own hand tools and prefer working with them, you are welcome to bring and use them.
Will I work in the rain/snow/excessive heat?
Yes! As long as it is safe and productive, we will work. If the weather gets really bad, we will stop working early. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather.
What should I wear to work?
As previously mentioned, please dress for the weather conditions. In addition, wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty or paint-splattered. Wear fully enclosed shoes or work boots, no sandals. For your protection, we suggest long pants.
Are there any restrictions on age for participation?
You must be at least 16 years of age to work on a construction site. A parent or guardian signature is needed on the Wavier of Liability for all 16 and 17 year old volunteers. Volunteers under 18 years of age cannot use power tools, work on the roof or work from a height above four (4) feet. Volunteers under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a responsible adult when they volunteer.
Will I be able to work with a Habitat homeowner?
Future homeowners have to complete 400 hours of "sweat equity" on their home, so frequently on Saturday and sometimes during the week you will have a chance to work with a Habitat homeowner. Please take the time to meet them and learn more about their experiences in the journey to become a first time homeowner.
Do you accept group volunteers? My organization, business, church, etc. would like to participate in a Habitat build.
Yes! Please explore the possibilities of signing your group up to volunteer. Habitat welcomes groups of volunteers.
If you have any other questions, Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Jim Spencer. He can be reached via e-mail jim.spencer@habitatspartanburg.org or by phone (864) 591-2221 x105.
I'm ready to volunteer. What do I do next?
I'M READY TO VOLUNTEER will take you to a page for on-line signup. WAIVER OF LIABILITY will give you a printable document which can be completed and brought to the worksite. Or, it can be mailed to the attention of the Volunteer Coordinator, Jim Spencer at 2270 South Pine Street, Spartanburg, SC 29302 or faxed to (864) 591-2228.
ReStore Volunteers
The ReStore specializes in selling new and used home furnishings, appliances and building materials at reduced prices. The funds generated from the sale of merchandise help with our mission of providing affordable housing for low income families in Spartanburg County.
Where is the Habitat ReStore and when is it open?
The Habitat ReStore is located at 2270 South Pine Street. Traveling south of Pine Street from Main Street, you will cross Country Club Road. Go approximately 1/3 mile and look for the ReStore sign on the right side of the street. Store hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Volunteers are welcome to work at any time. You can work your own schedule. Consider bringing a friend and work as a team.
What will I be doing as a ReStore volunteer?
Tasks will vary and can be targeted to your skills. Some typical tasks are as follows:
Unload donations that donors bring to the store
Sort items for pricing or segregate items that need repair
Test and clean appliances
Make minor repairs to donations
Move donations to the proper area of the sales floor
Straighten stock on the shelves and check for pricing
Assist customers as needed
Why must I sign a Waiver of Liability and Photographic Release?
Each Habitat volunteer is required to sign a Waiver of Liability and Photographic Release. The Wavier of Liability releases Habitat for Humanity of Spartanburg from any liability in the event of accident or injury. Before signing the Waiver, please check your personal insurance to ensure that you have coverage in the event of an accident. On occasion, Habitat staff members take pictures at the ReStore. This document gives us permission to use the pictures in our newsletter or other publications.
Are there any restrictions on age for participation?
Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age to work in the Habitat ReStore. A parent or guardian signature is needed on the Wavier of Liability for all 16 and 17 year old volunteers. Volunteers under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a responsible adult when they volunteer.
Do you accept group volunteers? My organization, business, church, etc. would like to help at the Habitat ReStore.
Yes! Please explore the possibilities of signing your group up to volunteer. Habitat welcomes groups of volunteers.
If you have any other questions, Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Jim Spencer. He can be reached via e-mail jim.spencer@habitatspartanburg.org or by phone (864) 591-2221 x105.
I'm ready to volunteer. What do I do next?
Click on each of the links found below. I'M READY TO VOLUNTEER will take you to a page for on-line signup. WAIVER OF LIABILITY will give you a printable document which can be completed and brought to the ReStore. Or, you can mail it to the attention of the Volunteer Coordinator, Jim Spencer at 2270 South Pine Street, Spartanburg, SC 29302 or faxed to (864) 591-2228.
Please keep the ReStore in mind when you have items available for donation. All merchandise in the store has been donated by people like yourself. Donations may be dropped off at the ReStore or call (864) 583-1322 to arrange pickup.
Office Volunteers
There are two areas where volunteer assistance is requested at the Habitat office - serving on a Habitat Committee and providing clerical assistance.
Currently Habitat is looking for volunteers to serve on the Family Support Committee. This Committee provides guidance to the Habitat homeowner after they move into their new home. Areas of support include an emphasis on community development and safety. We want to provide a nurturing environment for the families.
Special project work is available in the office. We need help going paperless - scan and file documents. You can be a reporter - research and write articles for the Habitat newsletter. Sign up to help when Habitat prepares mailings.
Where is the Habitat office and when is it open?
The Habitat office is located at 2270 South Pine Street, adjacent to the ReStore. Traveling south of Pine Street from Main Street, you will cross Country Club Road. Go approximately 1/3 mile and look for the ReStore sign on the right side of the street. The Habitat administrative office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.
Why must I sign a Waiver of Liability and Photographic Release?
Each Habitat volunteer is required to sign a Waiver of Liability and Photographic Release. The Wavier of Liability releases Habitat for Humanity of Spartanburg from any liability in the event of accident or injury. Before signing the Waiver, please check your personal insurance to ensure that you have coverage in the event of an accident. On occasion, Habitat staff members take pictures in the office. This document gives us permission to use the pictures in our newsletter or other publications.
Are there any restrictions on age for participation?
You must be at least 16 years of age to work in the Habitat office. A parent or guardian signature is needed on the Wavier of Liability for all 16 and 17 year old volunteers.
If you have any other questions, Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Jim Spencer. He can be reached via e-mail jim.spencer@habitatspartanburg.org or by phone (864) 591-2221 x105.
I'm ready to volunteer. What do I do next?
I'M READY TO VOLUNTEER will take you to a page for on-line signup. WAIVER OF LIABILITY will give you a printable document which can be completed and brought to the office. Or, you can mail it to the attention of the Volunteer Coordinator, Jim Spencer at 2270 South Pine Street, Spartanburg, SC 29302 or faxed to (864) 591-2228.
