Construction Volunteer Information
SCHEDULING
We ask that volunteers please register in advance so that we may ensure that there is enough work and supplies for everyone. Individuals who have not scheduled in advance will not be accommodated on the worksite.
Our minimum site age is 16. If you are under 16 and are interested in other volunteer opportunities, contact the Volunteer Manager.
If you are NOT able to fulfill your volunteer commitment, please un-register yourself online or let the Volunteer Manager know.
WHAT
No experience is necessary to volunteer but certainly always welcome! Exact tasks depend on what phase of construction we are in, and may include working on multiple homes in different phases. Volunteers could do anything from framing to drywall, insulation, siding, painting or landscaping.
WHEN
Build days run from 8AM to 4PM. We ask that our volunteers commit to a full day. Volunteer Safety Orientation takes place the morning you volunteer. Please plan to arrive about 10 minutes early for sign-in and paperwork.
WHERE
We have several different projects. You can sign up for New Construction in Longmont or Critical Repairs. The exact build location will be e-mailed to you after you register.
FORMS
Please complete the Release and Waiver before arriving at the site. Minors (ages 16 and over) must have their Release and Waiver for Minors signed by a Parent/Guardian and their Parent/Guardian’s signature must be witnessed before they are permitted on the worksite.
Adults | Minors | Renuncia Para Adultos | Renuncia Para Menores
ATTIRE
Close-toed shoes are required on the worksite at all times. It is always a good idea to wear sunscreen and to dress in layers for the unpredictable Colorado weather. Volunteers should wear clothing that is appropriate for getting dirty and for painting, as this is a possible task performed while volunteering at the site. Clothing should not be too loose-fitting, as baggy clothing can cause a safety hazard.
WEATHER
It is not often that we are forced to cancel due to adverse weather conditions. However, it is a possibility if the safety of the volunteers a concern to the Construction Site Supervisor. Therefore, if you are scheduled to volunteer on a day on which weather conditions are questionable, the office phone voice mail will be updated by 7:15 AM to indicate whether or not construction will take place as scheduled. Please call the office at 303-682-2485 (Ext. 7) should this become the case on your scheduled volunteered day.
HOW TO BUILD A HOUSE TEASER
For information on the basic components and terminology used in building a house, please read our How To Build A House Teaser.
SAFETY
The Construction Safety Policy covers all aspects of safety of construction operations at any site operated by Habitat for Humanity of St Vrain Valley.
SUPPLIES
Volunteering requires neither experience nor supplies. We try to provide enough equipment for everyone, and instruction is provided. If you do, however, have your own tools that you would prefer to use, we ask that you please make sure that they are labeled so that we can return them if they become misplaced.
Items that are helpful to have on hand are:
Tool belt
Hammer
Pencil
Measuring tape
Speed Square
Utility blade
Personal Protective Equipment: work gloves and safety glasses
We have water jugs on site, volunteers are encouraged to bring their own refillable water bottle.
PRAYER
Habitat was founded in 1976 as an ecumenical Christian organization to assist low income individuals in purchasing simple, decent, affordable homes that they would otherwise not have the opportunity to own. In keeping with this non-denominational Christian history, a prayer is typically said at the beginning of the workday and a blessing is offered before lunch. Participation is always optional.
TOOL TIPS
How to Mark and Measure
Using a Circular Saw
Using a Nail Gun
Using a Reciprocating Saw
Using a Ladder
Questions? Comments? Group Inquiries?
Doris Crespo
Volunteer Coordinator
Habitat for Humanity of the St Vrain Valley
volunteer@stvrainhabitat.org
303-682-2485 ext.106