How Does
How Does One Volunteer for Habitat for Humanity?
Introduction
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Founded in 1976, Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI) has built more than 300,000 homes around the world for people in need as of 2008. When you volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, you can work with local affiliates or join teams that travel to sites. Decide where you would like to make a contribution of your time. A complete overview of HFHI volunteer opportunities is available on its website (see link under Resources).
Volunteering
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You need to be in good health because of the physical effort required. Volunteers who travel to project out-of-town sites are responsible for their expenses, which average between $1,600 to $2,100 for seven- to 10-day trips. Raising funds to finance the trip is an option. To volunteer locally, simply use HFHI's local affiliate search engine (link below) to find opportunities in your area. Don't worry if you don't know anything about building a house. Habitat for Humanity sponsors programs, such as Women Build, that teach construction skills.
U.S. Volunteer Trips
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Many of Habitat for Humanity's programs involve helping people rebuild after disasters like the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005 or going to poverty-stricken areas all over the country. Volunteers interested in such projects can fill out or download an application from the HFHI website or call (800) 422-4828 (extension 7530) for information and scheduled trips. Once an application is processed (usually about two to three business days), it's good for three years. You'll then be issued a Habitat for Humanity ID number. The selection of team members is up to the team captains. However, when you volunteer, indicate your preference for particular areas of scheduled trips. Contact team captains about projects as they are announced.
Global Village
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Volunteering for traveling to another country works much like volunteering for trips within the United States. State your preferences and contact the team leaders of projects that interest you. To be on a Global Village team, you must be at least 14 and have a valid passport. Expenses typically run $1,525 to $2,500, depending on the region you travel to. To reserve a place on the volunteer list, include a $350 deposit along with your application. These trips generally last from nine to 14 days.
eHow Article: How Does One Volunteer for Habitat for Humanity?
