What types of volunteer opportunities exist?

We need your help to make the vision of affordable housing a reality and eliminating substandard housing in San Diego County. You can help us by volunteering in the following ways:  Help build a home at a construction site, coordinate a group build day, volunteer in the ReStore, or assist with office needs and administrative duties.

Can individuals volunteer?

Yes.  Volunteers are what really make our houses affordable. Young or old, newcomers or natives, laborers or office workers, all faiths or no faiths, we all join together to make affordable homes a reality in San Diego for families in need. There are volunteer needs at various times during the week, as well as Saturdays. 

Can groups volunteer?

Yes.  Please visit the Group Build Day page to get more information about how to schedule your group for an orientation and build day. 

Do you accept court-ordered Community Service Volunteers?

Yes, but restrictions apply.  Due to insurance restrictions, volunteers must be at least 16 years of age (sorry, no exceptions). If 16-17, a parent or guardian must execute the necessary forms, such as the Community Volunteer Application and Youth Waiver Form, on the minor's behalf. 

All community service volunteers must submit a Community Volunteer Application and be screened and approved by the Volunteer Coordinator BEFORE beginning their community service.  We can not verify hours for anyone who has not completed these steps.  Community service volunteers must sign in each time they work and track their hours using the Community Service Hours Log. 

SDHFH community service volunteers serve at the ReStore.  Due to the amount of training involved with becoming a volunteer, SDHFH is not set up for volunteers who need to meet short-term (i.e., 35 hours or less) school or court-mandated service requirements.  Community service hours will not be reported for any school or court until after 35 hours of community service has been completed by the volunteer. 

SDHFH is unable to accommodate court-ordered volunteers who have committed any violent or theft-related offenses. 

If you have any questions, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 619-283-4663 ext. 316 or volunteerservices@sdhfh.org.

What are the construction days and hours?

Construction is happening all week long, from Tuesday through Saturday. Construction hours are normally from 8:15am to 3:30pm. Midweek volunteers are very critically needed at both the ReStore and construction sites. 

Do I need prior construction skills to volunteer on a construction site?

No.  All we ask is that you bring a willingness to learn and a desire to assist us in achieving our mission of building affordable housing. We have house leaders skilled in home construction and working with volunteers with various skill levels. Come and learn how to build a house!

Do I need to bring anything to the construction site?

It is recommended that you bring sturdy shoes, work gloves, a hat, sunscreen, water, lunch and a willingness to work and learn. Tools are provided but you may bring your own if you desire.  Necessary paperwork will be provided and can be filled out at the build site, but you may also fill out this Adult Waiver Form and bring it with you.  A waiver form needs to be on file with the construction supervisor at the time of your scheduled build day.

How old do I have to be to volunteer?

The minimum age to volunteer on a construction site is 16. Both individuals and youth groups are encouraged to lend a helping hand. Each youth under the age of 18 must have a Minor Permission Form signed by their parent or guardian allowing them to do volunteer work. To comply with legal requirements and to provide proper supervision, there must be a minimum of one adult for every two youth under the age of 18. 

I’m ready to volunteer!  How do I get started?

It’s easy to start helping TODAY!  Please go to our Volunteer Up website to register and sign up for an Orientation. 

Questions?

If your question was not addressed here, please contact:

Melanie Seales, Volunteer Coordinator at 619-283-4663 x316 or email volunteerservices@sdhfh.org