What can I expect when volunteering with Urban Homeworks?

We hold a high esteem for those who are willing to take time out of their weekly schedules and volunteer with us. As an expression of our appreciation, we want to put our best effort towards ensuring a meaningful and satisfactory volunteering experience. Here are some things that you can expect when you volunteer with us:

  • An Urban Homeworks crew leader who is friendly and knowledgeable.
  • A work project and work site that is prepared for your work day. Work days will begin at 8:00 AM and end at 4:00 PM.
  • There will be a work site orientation meeting at 8:00 AM. This meeting will include programmatic content about the work of Urban Homeworks and the urban communities that we’re involved in.
  • Lunch break will be around 12:00 PM. Volunteers must provide their own lunches.
Do I need to have construction experience to volunteer?

No, construction experience is not necessary to volunteer with UHW. Of course, we love to have skilled volunteers. However, our main desire is that volunteers are excited about working and have a willingness to learn.

What tools should I bring?

You can bring a tool belt and some hand tools, although we do provide hand tools. We ask that individuals do not bring their personal power tools on site. UHW will provide the task-appropriate tools for the work site.

Is there an age limit for volunteering?

We require a minimum age of 16 years old.

What does a typical work day look like?

The work day is from 8:00am – 4:00pm with a midday break for lunch. The day will start with an introduction time and a work-site orientation.

Is lunch provided?

UHW does not provide lunch for the volunteer groups. We ask that the volunteers coordinate their lunch plans prior to coming on site. Most groups bring their own lunch, while others venture out to a local restaurant.

What should I wear?

Please wear construction-appropriate clothing. No loose-fitting clothing or open-toed footwear; work boots are encouraged. Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, and be prepared to work in the elements.

Do you accept individual volunteers?

We do accept individual volunteers, but we ask that they join one of the groups that are scheduled to volunteer.

How far in advance should I contact UHW to volunteer?

This depends on the day that you want to volunteer. If you are interested in a weekend or a week-long service project, then we ask that you take the necessary actions to secure the date AT LEAST 2 months in advance. If you are interested in a weekday, then we ask that you sign up at least 1 month in advance. Work-day registration is scheduled on a first come, first serve basis.

Do you provide lodging?

Currently we do not provide lodging for our volunteers (with the exception of the Urban Immersion Program). If you are having trouble with finding adequate lodging, we may be able to connect you to resources in our network.

Why aren’t Jr. High-aged youth allowed?

We agree that exposing young people to service opportunities is valuable. Unfortunately, due to insurance reasons and safety issues, we do not allow youth under the age of 16 on our work sites.