Frequently Asked Questions:
Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity of Omaha
It’s easy!
We offer several opportunities to volunteer – whether you want to come by yourself or with others.
Your first step is to visit habitatomaha.org/volunteernow
Absolutely!
You can find more information about group opportunities here.
Habitat Omaha also has opportunities to get involved through our Habitat Young Professionals Group and Friends of Habitat Omaha group.
There are occasional volunteer needs at Habitat events. Be sure to check out the event calendar for details.
No!
It’s great if you have construction skills, but it isn’t necessary. Our skilled construction staff supervisors are familiar with all skills levels and will train everyone so you feel useful! Before you know it, you’ll have picked up handy new skills you can use in 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.
To volunteer on a Construction or Home repair site, volunteers must be at least 16 years old.
Volunteers age 14+ (accompanied by a parent/guardian) can also volunteer in our Habitat ReStore, Rock the Block events or community garden.
Note: All volunteers under 19 years of age must have a waiver completed and signed by a parent/guardian.
Our staff provides on-site, daily safety briefing and training on how to properly use tools at the home build sites. Feel free to watch our build site safety video here.
We incorporate volunteers into just about every aspect of the build, from framing and installing siding, to indoor painting and finishing. 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!
Because we build year-round, there may be times in the winter when we move indoors and/or have volunteer opportunities at our warehouse.
Construction Site: 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.
During warmer weather make sure to wear breathable clothing and sunscreen. During colder months, don’t forget to bundle up (thick socks, gloves and warm shoes), wear lots of layers!
ReStore: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, torn, or even ruined. Closed-toe shoes are required. Keep the weather in mind, you may be working in and outside.
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 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
Volunteer at ReStore
Yes. If you are completing community service hours, you may be eligible to complete them at the ReStores. Please fill out the community service form here.