Every volunteer
makes a difference.
Building homes. Building hope.
Building community.
Building homes is the heart of Topeka Habitat. Our construction volunteers work side-by-side with Topeka Habitat staff, home buyers, and donors to build homes, and neighborhoods.
No previous construction or building experience is necessary to volunteer. All construction and repair/rehabilitation sites have an experienced leader who instructs volunteers and provides all necessary tools and safety equipment. Even the most novice volunteer can assist with construction.
We have opportunities at the home construction site year-round, Tuesdays through Saturdays. Opportunities to help with repair/rehabilitation projects are also available throughout the year.
Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age to volunteer. Check out our construction frequently asked questions below.
We also welcome volunteer groups! If your organization is interested in volunteering for Topeka Habitat please contact our volunteer coordinator at 785-234-4322 or volunteer@topekahabitat.org.
You don't have to lift a hammer to help. If construction isn't your cup of tea, we also have many volunteer opportunities at our ReStore, administrative offices, and special events.
Construction Volunteer FAQs
How does a construction site volunteer day go?
On your volunteer day, we'll greet you for sign-in several minutes before the scheduled start time. A Topeka Habitat staff member will provide a short overview and safety orientation. Safety is our top priority at construction sites and your attendance at the safety orientation is mandatory.
After orientation, our construction manager or on-site supervisor will teach everyone the tasks for the day. If you're asked to do something you're not 100% comfortable with, the supervisor will be happy to help you get comfortable with the task or will find another task for you. Don't worry, there is always something to do!
Do I need prior experience with construction?
Nope! All of our projects are built primarily with inexperienced volunteers who have a willingness to learn. Our construction supervisors will teach you what you need to know.
Is there an age minimum to volunteer?
Yes. For new construction, home repair and renovation projects, all volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Volunteers who are 16 and 17-years old are not allowed to be on high ladders or use power tools and must have a parental waiver and medical release signed.
Please note: Even if accompanied by a parent, children under 16 are never permitted on our construction sites.
What if I have physical limitations?
We want everyone to have a safe and rewarding experience at our build sites, and there are tasks to suit all levels of experience and physical ability. Please talk with our construction manager or site supervisor about any limitations you have and they can help determine tasks that are most suitable for you.
Typical work on a construction site can be strenuous, but there are also tasks that are less strenuous--ask a staff member if you need an alternative task.
Most construction work is done outdoors, or inside the home which is under construction and is not air-conditioned. Please consider your personal tolerance to hot or cold weather when volunteering.
If you are pregnant there are tasks on site that do not involve heavy lifting or exposure to chemical fumes. Please consult your physician before volunteering at a construction site when pregnant.
What should I wear to volunteer?
What happens in the case of bad weather?
If the volunteer shift you've signed up for is canceled, you will be contacted by Topeka Habitat for Humanity staff with as much notice as possible. If you have not been contacted, please plan to report to the site. Shifts may be shortened or tasks may change depending on weather. If you have questions or concerns please contact a Topeka Habitat staff member.
What other ways I can help Topeka Habitat?
In addition to volunteering on our construction sites you can also volunteer in our ReStore, volunteer with our Tool Bus, and volunteer for special projects and events. You can also help by making a financial contribution. A large source of our operating income is from local individual donations.