Let’s build.
What to expect when you volunteer with Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio
Thank you for your volunteering with Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio. When volunteers come together in partnership, they help hardworking local families build and purchase safe, stable homes they can afford—strengthening neighborhoods and creating opportunity that lasts.
At Habitat, we believe affordable homeownership is built through shared effort. Volunteers support this important work by showing up with purpose, working alongside others, and helping these efforts move forward in meaningful ways.
If you haven’t volunteered with us before, you may be wondering what to expect. We’ve put together information to help you feel prepared and confident when you arrive on site. And if you have questions along the way, our team is here to help guide next steps.
Watch this video to learn more about Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio… because a better brighter future starts with a home.
What to Expect: Volunteering with Habitat
What can I expect during my volunteer shift?
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Check-In –Check-in begins at the start of your volunteer shift. Please arrive on time, remain in your car if you arrive early, and report to the Project Manager once check-in begins.
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Safety Talk – The Project Manager will inform you of the safety protocols you’ll follow to have the safest, most enjoyable experience. This involves reviewing instructions regarding your task and how to properly use the tools Habitat provides.
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Break – You are welcome to take breaks as needed. Know and respect your limits!
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Devotion – At 10:00 a.m. across all work sites, we pause for an intentional break to reflect on the mission of Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio and the many hands that come together to make it possible.
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Lunch – Volunteers working shifts that end after 1:00 p.m. have a scheduled lunch break.
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Closing – At the conclusion of the day, you’ll receive a Habitat t-shirt and information about ways to stay involved with Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio.
What should I wear?
Sturdy closed-toe shoes (work boots, tennis shoes) are required. Sandals are not permitted. You should wear weather-appropriate clothing that you do not mind getting dirty or torn. Shirts are required to be worn at all times.
What does Habitat provide?
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Water — There will be water bottles at the site, but bringing your own water is always encouraged.
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Protective Gear – Habitat supplies protective gear that is required for your specific task, such as safety glasses, a hardhat, and gloves.
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Tools — Habitat provides all volunteers with a set of hand and/or power tools to use for the day. However, you are welcome to bring your personal hand tools. Do not bring any personal power tools. Make sure to label all personal tools and always keep them with you.
What do I need to know about worksite courtesy and safety?
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Smoking – There is no smoking on any Habitat volunteer site. If you need to take a smoking break, please step away from the site.
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Safety First – Your wellbeing and safety are our highest priorities. Our goal is to complete each project safely, carefully, and to the best of our ability.
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Follow the Project Manager – Each job site has a Project Manager who is in charge. There may be different ways to do a task, but we follow the Habitat way for good reason. Once the Project Manager gives directions, please follow their instructions.
What happens if a shift is cancelled?
Have a question that isn't listed here?
If there’s something you’re still wondering about, give our team a call at 330-915-5888 or click to send us a message.
Homes Built Since 1988
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Funds Directly Support Mission
$ Average Habitat Mortgage
Have a question that isn't listed here?
Volunteer
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Own a Home
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ReStore
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Nearly 40 Years and Building • 1988 – 2026
More about Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio.
Families need affordable housing more than ever, so we’re building more than ever. As a grassroots Christian housing ministry, we partner with families who need a hand up, not a handout, through decent, affordable housing. Future homeowners invest “sweat equity” hours by completing courses in financial literacy, home maintenance, and personal development, and building their home and the homes of other families. Donors contribute the resources that help Habitat purchase building materials while volunteers build side-by-side with future homeowners. When homes are complete, they’re sold with 0% interest mortgages. As the need for affordable housing grows, Habitat has grown. While we’re known for building new homes, we also restore, tear down, take apart and repair. And, at the end of the day, Habitat for Humanity is all about bringing people together to strengthen communities and offer hope to families through a decent, affordable place to call home.
Ohio Housing Crisis
1 in 9 Ohio households spend half or more of their income on housing while the state is short by more than 252,000 units for extremely low-income renters.
Habitat Families
The families and individuals who partner with Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio are hardworking people who earn between 30-80% of the area median income.
How Families Qualify
It’s a hand up, not a handout. Families must be currently living in substandard housing, have a steady income, and be willing to give this partnership their all.
Funding a Home
A Habitat home is funded with house sponsorships, in-kind donations, proceeds from Habitat for Humanity ReStore, and 0% interest homeowner house payments.