Get Involved : Group Volunteer Opportunities
GROUP VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM
Habitat for Humanity of Spartanburg welcomes groups to volunteer at a construction site or in the ReStore. Volunteering as a group is a wonderful team building experience. The event is a win - win - win situation with the volunteers becoming the Hands and Heart of the Habitat mission. The group functions as a team, given the opportunity to bond and work as a unit, providing labor to build a house, and ultimately a deserving family gets a new home. Habitat welcomes churches, businesses, school and other organizations to join us in our mission "to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness, and to make decent housing a matter of conscience in our community."
Habitat offers the opportunity for group builds on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday of each week. Please keep in mind that Saturdays are the most popular day for group builds and, during nice weather, we get booked well in advance. We request that groups be flexible regarding a work date and suggest that you schedule early.
When your group discusses volunteering, please consider sponsoring square footage within the home that you are helping build. The cost per sq. ft. is $52.00 and we certainly welcome financial help. This is not a requirement, but we really need and appreciate your support both as volunteers and donors. If your group cannot help financially, we understand.
How do I get my group signed up?
Complete the GROUP VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM and send it to Jim Spencer, our Volunteer Coordinator. Contact information is on the application form.
How many volunteers can participate?
The number of volunteers that Habitat can accommodate at one time varies dependant on a number of factors - number of houses under construction, type of task to be completed, the availability of supervision. We want this to be a safe, meaningful experience, so please understand that we must put limits on the group size. Group size will be discussed with your Group Leader.
How do my team members get signed up to volunteer?
Signup is done on our website. Instructions will be provided to the Group Leader when the event opens for enrollment. When enrollment is met, the system will not accept additional respondents. Provisions will be made for volunteers that do not have internet access.
What types of work can we expect at a Habitat worksite?
Tasks will vary dependant on the stage of construction. Common tasks include framing, roofing, siding, insulation, drywall, painting, trim work and landscaping. We will not ask a volunteer to do any task that they feel uncomfortable performing.
Why does Habitat require a completed Waiver of Liability?
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. This document gives us permission to use the pictures in our newsletter or other publications.
What time will my group be working?
The construction site is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. The work shifts for group volunteers start at 8:30am and 12:30pm. Volunteers groups are expected to work at least 3.5 hours. The shifts to be worked will be determined with the Group Leader. Please be on time for the start of your shift. A Habitat staff member will present a brief orientation on Habitat, offer a prayer for the safety of the workers and the success of the mission and give a relevant safety talk before starting work.
What do my team members need to bring when they come to volunteer?
Each volunteer is requested to bring their own gloves. Volunteers may bring their own hand tools, but Habitat is prepared to provide all necessary tools and supplies. If the group is working all day, please bring lunches and snacks for break. Water will be available on site.
What are the age limitations?
Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age to work on a construction site or in the 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 cannot use power tools, work on the roof or work from a height above four (4) feet. One responsible adult is requested for every four youth under the age of 18.
Are any special skills required?
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.
Will we work if it rains, snows, or is excessively hot?
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 we wear?
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.
Can my group do something other than working at a construction site?
Yes! There are opportunities for groups to volunteer in the Habitat ReStore. When completing the GROUP VOLUNTEER APPLICATION, note your interest in volunteering at the ReStore.
Details, Details, Details - Where is the construction site? What is the work for the day? Is there an emergency contact?
The Volunteer Coordinator and the Group Leader will be in regular contact discussing details. One week prior to the workday, all of the pertinent information for your event will be posted on the Habitat on-line calendar. The Group Leader will be given a link to the calendar for distribution to each team member.
