Volunteering FAQs

How old do I have to be to Volunteer?

We have policies in place to keep children safe while partnering with Habitat. No children (under 18) may do work that is dangerous, including using power tools or operating machinery.

Our build sites accept volunteers who are 16 and older.

• • Volunteers that are 16 & 17 years old must come with an adult and have the minor section of their waiver signed by their guardian and are not allowed to participate in roofing operations or use of power tools.

The ReStore accepts volunteers who are 14 and older.

• • All 14 & 15-year-old volunteers must volunteer with an adult and have the minor section of their waiver signed by their guardian.
  • All 16 & 17-year-old volunteers are able to volunteer independently. The minor section of the waiver must be signed by their guardian.
  • Youth groups are encouraged to volunteer at the ReStore with adult supervision in safe ratios.

Can I just show up at a build site to Volunteer?

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate walk-on volunteers at our build sites. All construction work is planned in advance according to the number of volunteers we have signed up.

Do I have to be skilled to volunteer on a build site?

We always welcome skilled volunteers and want to encourage those in the building trades to join us on site, however the majority of our volunteers often have limited or no construction experience. Numerous volunteers remain with us on a long-term basis and volunteer regularly in order to build up their skills. We will train you in all aspects of construction with the hope that you will continue to volunteer, and even perhaps share your skills with unskilled volunteers in the future.

What is the ReStore?

The Habitat ReStore is a donation-based retail store. Our affiliate has one ReStore located in Plainfield and one in Waterford. Proceeds from sales are used to support Habitat building projects in New London and Windham Counties. Volunteers age 14 and older assist with customer service, store organization, basic furniture repair, and many other tasks. Retail or merchandising experience is welcome but not necessary.

Do I have to volunteer for an entire day?

Construction site volunteers sign up for a shift and are expected to stay for the entire shift. The ReStores offer full- and half-day shifts. If you cannot dedicate a full day to volunteering, the ReStore may be the opportunity for you.

How do I get started?

Individual volunteers should register or log in using the VolunteerUp button on the main menu above and schedule your volunteer days. Then head over to our training page to review our safety and training information. If you are volunteering to fulfill court ordered community service, please visit the Court Ordered Community Service page. If you have any questions, please contact us directly using the contact information below.

What do I do if I have to cancel my shift?

We understand that cancellations happen, but it is important that they be minimized. Keep in mind that once you make a reservation, our construction and ReStore staff plan accordingly. If you need to cancel, please do so as soon as possible. This will allow another volunteer to fill the vacancy. Please log into VolunteerUp and cancel your scheduled shift.