Frequently Asked Questions About Volunteering
Who Volunteers for Habitat?
People of all ages — business people, craftspeople, lawyers, architects, accountants, plumbers, carpenters, college students, exchange students, vacationers, faith communities, service groups, retirees — in other words, a cross-section of the population. Retirees are a special resource and often work during the week or parts of the year, depending on their schedules. We also recruit skilled volunteers to be team leaders and supervisors. Volunteers are needed for construction and also for non-construction work.
Do I need to be skilled?
No, you do not need to be skilled. Our team leaders and supervisors will give you instruction on the job. You may wish to look at Habitat for Humanity University's online Residential Construction Basics. Additionally, Springfield Habitat has basic skills clinics for Habitat volunteers.
What if I am a community service volunteer?
All court-ordered volunteers must fill out and turn in our Community Hours sheet, and read our Community Servic Policy, both located under the Volunteering section of this website. Volunteers who need community service hours for school must read our Community Service Expectations and complete the accompanying form. This can be found in the same spot.
What is my time commitment?
It is best if construction volunteers come for a whole day (from 9-4 on Saturday and 12-4 on Sunday). At minimum we expect you to work a four-hour morning or afternoon shift, as long a you notify the supervisor when you get to the construction site.
What kind of job will I be doing?
It depends on your skills, where we are in the project, and the weather.
Do any groups or individuals have priority as volunteers?
Yes, Habitat families working on their sweat equity are always accommodated at the site. Also groups from organizations which fund or sponsor a house are given priority.
How do I schedule a group?
Do so as far in advance as possible. Group leaders and members do not need to attend a volunteer orientation. During certain seasons, there is a high demand for weekend dates. Weather and the schedules of skilled professionals may delay or alter the proposed schedule, so volunteers need to be flexible. You can sign up using VolunteerUP! When you sign in you will be asked for the number of "guests" you will bring in your group, and for the name of the group.
How many can be in a group?
To ensure that our sites do not become overcrowded, GROUPS ARE ASKED TO SIGN UP WITH NO MORE THAN 6-7 MEMBERS. This includes adults for youth groups. Groups that wish to bring more people must check with the volunteer coordinator first.
How can youth groups be involved?
We welcome youth groups who are prepared to work hard and learn. We require adequate adult supervision (21+, around 3 or 4 youth per adult) while the group is on site. Please note: our insurance policy requires youth to be at least 14 years of age; the law prevents 14 and 15 year olds from working with any power tools and being on ladders higher than themselves. This age group should expect to perform light duties. Youths aged 16 and 17 can perform general construction, but not use cutting power tools or be on roofs. Other volunteer opportunities offsite are available for young people ages 5-14. All youth must bring a waiver signed by their parents or legal guardians, and all youth under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. If you are the leader of a group of young people (ages 14 through 17) coming to a Habitat site, please read the statement of expectations for these groups. For youths aged 14-17 who want to work at a Habitat site, a waiver must be signed by a parent and the youth.
Am I insured when I'm on the site?
Habitat requests that all volunteers come to the site with their own health insurance. Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity carries limited insurance coverage for on-site volunteers. You must sign in daily to be covered, however. It is your responsibility and that of the construction supervisor to make sure you sign in as soon as you arrive at the site.
Will I be safe on site?
Safety is everyone's responsibility. We all need to be safety conscious and follow the supervisor's directions. We provide appropriate safety equipment and will ask anyone behaving in an unsafe manner to leave the work site. We maintain a drug free work site. You will not be asked to do what is inherently unsafe or what you feel uncomfortable doing.
Can I bring my child?
Children under 14 are not permitted on the site during construction. One member of a group, however, may elect to provide child care offsite for other members of a group. All youth must have a waiver signed by parents and have a responsible adult present.
What clothes should I wear?
Please wear sensible clothing and footwear. Be sure to bring work gloves. We will supply hard hats where needed. In winter, you may be working outside, so please dress appropriately.
What about food, comfort stations and tools?
Unless advised otherwise, please bring your own food and drink; groups sometimes cater their own lunch. There is an on-site lavatory. Feel free to bring your own tool belt or simple hand tools. Do not bring power tools. Habitat always has tools for volunteers' use.
Why may a date be canceled?
Extreme cold or heat may cause us to cancel a workday. Call ahead for our construction update, 586-5430 ext 4, to make sure you're still working.
How can I get publicity for my group?
You may take photographs at the site. Feel free to wear promotional clothing or bring a banner publicizing your group.
What other volunteer opportunities are available besides building?
- Do data entry
- Help in the office
- Work on fundraisers
- Help at events
- Help with families
- Recruit volunteers
- Work with faith communities
- Assist volunteers with child care
- Other off-site projects
Call 413-586-5430 for more information about how YOU can help Pioneer Valley Habitat as a volunteer. Before your first workday, you must come to a Volunteer Orientation Session. These are held on the third Saturday of every month, from 9 to 10 am, and on the first Thursday at 7pm. Please call the office to let us know you're coming.
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