Question 1

Is there an age requirement to volunteer?

Accepted Answer

To volunteer at our ReStore or on our construction sites volunteers must be 16 or older.

16 and 17 year old's must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and submit a completed waiver for minors form.

If you are younger than 16 or have questions, please contact us at 401.213.6711.

Question 2

I don't have construction experience, can I still volunteer on site?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We welcome volunteers on our construction sites regardless of prior experience or skill level. Our experienced staff and volunteer crew leaders will provide you with the necessary safety equipment, tools, and knowledge for a safe and fun day on site!

Question 3

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Start by reviewing the different volunteer options found here to see what volunteer role is of interest to you. Then follow the instructions for registering or call us at 401.213.6711 to learn more.

Have court-mandated service to complete? Fill out our community service form found here

Question 4

What is the ReStore?

Accepted Answer

ReStore is a non-profit home improvement store and donation center that sells new and gently used furniture, building materials, appliances and home accessories to the public at a fraction of the retail price. ​With help from local donors, shoppers and volunteers, proceeds from ReStore cover 100% of South County Habitat for Humanity's overhead expenses, allowing every dollar donated to go directly towards building affordable homes.

Volunteers in our ReStore must be 16 or older. We have several ReStore volunteer opportunities available, learn more here.

Question 5

What is the time commitment?

Accepted Answer

We understand our volunteers are busy with many obligations outside of Habitat so we try to have a wide variety of roles to fit your availability. We are always in need of volunteers who can commit to joining us on a regular basis.

Construction: Shifts on the build site are typically offered Tuesday through Friday (and some Saturdays) for ~4-6 hours. We have construction volunteers that take part in a shift each week, we have some who come monthly, and some who stop by when they get the chance. As long as you register for the build ahead of time, we welcome you whenever you are able to attend! We also welcome 'one time' volunteers.

ReStore: Our ReStore is a thrift store primarily operated by volunteers, thus we do hope volunteers are able to commit to a weekly shift to help our store run smoothly. Shifts are 4 hours in the morning or afternoon. (Certain ReStore volunteer positions, such as a donation scheduler or truck assistants, may require longer hours, or more than one shift per week. Learn more about ReStore opportunities here).

Question 6

What do I wear/bring to a build site?

Accepted Answer

Clothing: Construction volunteers should wear clothes that can get dirty and are appropriate for the weather, we often recommend layers as the temperature can change drastically.

Footwear: Work boots or sturdy sneakers are required, no open-toe or open-back shoes are permitted on our build sites.

Food/Drink: Please bring a re-usable water bottle to site, working on the construction site can be very physically demanding, so be sure to keep hydrated. Our crews typically have a coffee break mid-morning (provided on site), but feel free to bring snacks.

Other: We provide all safety equipment and tools, but some volunteers like to bring their own, if so please be sure your tools are clearly labeled with your name. We also suggest bringing sunscreen, especially in the warmer months as our build sites are often in areas without shade.

Question 7

What do I wear/bring to the ReStore?

Accepted Answer

Clothing: Please dress appropriately for a store setting. Comfortable clothing you don't mind getting dirty is suggested.

Footwear: Sturdy sneakers are required, no open-toe or open-back shoes are permitted for volunteers in our ReStore.

Food/Drink: Please bring a re-usable water bottle, it's important to stay hydrated! We offer coffee and some light snacks, but feel free to bring your own.

Question 8

Can I arrive late or leave early from a shift?

Accepted Answer

Late arrivals:  We depend heavily on the reliability of our volunteers. Please do your best to be on time for your shift or build day. Arriving late may mean missing important information or assignments.

Early departures: We request volunteers plan to stay for their entire scheduled shift. However, we understand circumstances arise that may require early departures. If you need to leave early please let your supervisor know so they can plan accordingly.

Question 9

I can't make it to my shift, how do I cancel?

Accepted Answer

ReStore or office: Please contact Emily, Volunteer Coordinator, at 401.213.6711 or emily@southcountyhabitat.org

Construction: Build site volunteers are required to register online in advance for all build opportunities. When you register for a build shift you receive an email confirmation that contains the option to 'cancel', please follow the instructions from there. For assistance please contact Emily, Volunteer Coordinator, at 401.213.6711 or emily@southcountyhabitat.org

Committee or event volunteers: Please reach out directly to your chairperson or staff liaison.

Question 10

What if there is inclement weather on my build day?

Accepted Answer

All volunteers are required to pre-register online for build days. If for any reason we need to cancel a build we will notify you via email as soon as possible. We suggest checking your email before heading to the build site so you can learn about any cancellations, location changes or parking instructions. You can also call our Volunteer Hotline at 401.213.6711 x8 or 401.213.3204 for up-to-date closures or location change notices.

Question 11

Can my group volunteer with you?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We welcome groups out to our build sites, please visit our Group Opportunities page here to learn more and complete a Group Build Interest Form. We will be in touch as soon as possible to discuss the opportunities available.

Question 12

Is lunch provided?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately we are not able to provide lunch for volunteers with the exception of certain events. If your shift spans the lunch hour we ask that you bring a lunch.

Question 13

Is everyone welcome to volunteer on the construction site?

Accepted Answer

We welcome all adults over the age of 16 to volunteer, regardless of gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, race, religion, or experience. Our builds generally take place from Tuesday to Saturday, with Fridays and Saturdays typically reserved for group opportunities. Our Thursday build, known as the Women's Build, was officially formed in 2005 to create a welcoming and safe space for women on the construction site. While we continue to honor the tradition of the Women's Build on Thursdays, everyone is invited to join us.

Question 14

Do you have opportunities for court-mandated service?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We accept court-mandated service volunteers on a case-by-case basis. Typically these hours are completed in our ReStore, our non-profit thrift store. To inquire about court-ordered service please complete the form found here: Court-mandated service

Volunteer FAQs