FAQs and Volunteer Tips

I want to volunteer for Habitat for Humanity of Omaha. How do I get involved?

It’s easy! We offer several opportunities to volunteer. Check out many of the ways, and register any hour of the day, at habitatomaha.org/volunteernow. There you can create an account and register for a date that fits in your schedule. If you are looking to bring a group of volunteers, please contact us at (402) 884-5782 or volunteer@habitatomaha.org.

Is there an orientation I can attend?

Yes! The day of your volunteer shift a staff member will be there to greet you and fill you in on Habitat Omaha and our mission. You’ll also learn important information about your volunteer day, and ways you can stay involved after your shift ends.

What kind of work will I do at the construction site?

Weather and other factors make predicting construction work a challenge. However, we incorporate volunteers into just about every aspect of the build, from framing and installing siding, to indoor painting and finishing – so it’s best to register with a big heart and open mind.

Whatever job you’re assigned, make sure you’re comfortable with it. If you are unable to complete a task, or feel uneasy (not everyone wants to be on a ladder), tell your crew leader–we’re happy to find a job that better suits you!

Do I need construction experience to help build?

No! It’s great if you have construction skills but it certainly isn’t necessary. Our skilled construction staff will ensure you receive training for the task at hand. Before you know it, you’ll have picked up handy new skills you can use on your own house or the next time you volunteer. For those who do have expertise in construction and would like to put their skills to optimal use, please contact us at volunteer@habitatomaha.org. Though we can’t guarantee we’ll have work in your area on the day you’d like to volunteer, we’ll do everything we can to put your skills to good use.

What should I wear?

If you are volunteering on a construction site or at one of our Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations, wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, torn, or even ruined. Closed-toe shoes are required, so put on your sneakers or work boots. Dress weather-appropriate and avoid overly baggy clothing. If you’re volunteering at our office, staff members dress business casual.

What should I bring?

Lunch, a snack, and a bottle of water to get you through the day. All of the tools you need will be available at the construction site.

What will I do at Habitat ReStore?

Omaha’s Habitat ReStores are nonprofit home improvement stores and donation centers that sell new and gently-used furniture, home accessories, building materials, and appliances at up to 70% off the retail price. Habitat ReStore sells these items to the general public with the proceeds benefiting the construction of new and renovated Habitat homes in our area. Habitat ReStore volunteers can help with a variety of tasks, including:

• Using your creativity to restore or repurpose donated items
• Light cleaning
• Working with staff to accept and process donations
• Customer service
• Helping with merchandising or displays

To volunteer at Habitat ReStore, visit habitatomaha.org/volunteernow and schedule yourself for a shift, or call (402) 884-7067.

What will I do at the office?

Office volunteers will most likely be asked to help our departments with filing and light house cleaning.

How old do I have to be to volunteer?

14-15 years old: Volunteers in this age range can help out at Habitat ReStore, in our community garden or at Rock the Block events—they must be accompanied by a parent/guardian while volunteering.

16-18 years old: Volunteers in this age range may help on a construction build site (with some restrictions) and can also engage in activities that are approved for younger individuals.

19 years and older: Welcome to volunteer at any Habitat Omaha location.

NOTE: All volunteers under 19 years of age must have a waiver completed and signed by a parent/guardian. For more information about volunteering with Habitat Omaha contact the Volunteer Department at volunteer@habitatomaha.org.