Volunteer
Your time builds more than homes—it builds futures
There are many ways to get involved, whether you want to build homes, support ReStores, or help behind the scenes. Some roles are one-time opportunities, while others are ongoing. No matter how you choose to volunteer, your time and skills will help more families find safe, affordable housing.
Find the volunteer role that’s right for you
Local home builds
Get hands-on and help build affordable homes from the ground up.
Collaborate with volunteers and future homeowners to build homes in your community.
In our ReStores
Prefer a hands-on role that’s not at a build site?
Support ReStores by helping customers, sorting donations, or building furniture.
Behind the scenes
Want to support Habitat in a more flexible or creative way?
Capture photos, set up events, or represent Habitat at community fairs and information booths.
Join a local Chapter
Take on a leadership role in your community.
Join a local Habitat Chapter and volunteer on a committee. Help plan events, lead fundraising, or support marketing and outreach in your community.
Why volunteer with us
Whether you join us on a build site, in a ReStore, or at an event, your support helps us serve more families every year.
By volunteering with Habitat you can expect to:
- Join a globally recognized organization making a local impact
- Choose from one-time or ongoing roles that fit your schedule
- Learn new skills (no experience needed—we’ll show you how)
- Meet great people and make a real difference
- Volunteer hours are eligible for school and community programs
How to become a volunteer
All volunteers complete a Volunteer Information Session before signing up for a shift. It takes less than an hour and walks you through what to expect on site. Sessions are available online or in person, so you can choose what works best for you. Once you’re done, you’ll be able to browse and book shifts in our Volunteer Portal.
Volunteering at ReStore
Whether you’re looking to give back on your own or as a team, there’s a place for you at Habitat ReStore. No experience needed!
Individual volunteering
Volunteering at ReStore is a flexible, rewarding way to give back to your community. Whether you’re greeting customers, sorting donations, or keeping the store organized, every shift helps local families build better futures.
Team volunteering
Bring your coworkers, friends, or community group together for a meaningful day of volunteering. ReStore group shifts are great for team bonding and support Habitat’s mission in a tangible way.
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Volunteer spotlight: Rehman Anwar
Housing affordability is one of the biggest challenges facing young Canadians—and for Rehman, it’s personal. As a university student looking…
Team building with a purpose
Book a Habitat Build Day for your company or group. It’s a unique, hands-on experience that brings teams together while helping local families build safe, affordable homes.
Volunteer Crew Leader
Habitat gives you everything you could want in a volunteer job. A busy productive day, the opportunity to learn new skills, camaraderie, satisfaction at giving and doing something tangible, and a direct connection to the outcomes that the organization is setting out to achieve.
Frequently asked questions
To begin volunteering with Habitat, create a volunteer profile. Once you’ve signed up, register for a volunteer orientation session. We offer both virtual and in-person options a couple of times each month (you only need to attend one session though!). Links to upcoming orientations are available at the same link as listed above.
A “Specialized Volunteer” is someone in a role that requires an interview or other screening steps before placement. This includes positions like ReStore volunteers, Crew Leaders, and certain other roles. If you’re interested in becoming a Specialized Volunteer, please email us at volunteer@habitatsouthernab.ca to schedule an interview or learn about the next steps.
Absolutely! Many of our volunteers choose to try different roles. You’re welcome to volunteer in multiple areas on different days and explore what you enjoy most.
Yes! We’re happy to recognize the contributions of our volunteers. If you need a reference letter or confirmation of hours (for school, work, or personal records), please connect with the Volunteer Program Manager. We’ll gladly provide documentation based on your time and involvement with Habitat. Once you create a volunteer profile and start volunteering there will also be an option for you to view and print a record of your verified volunteer time as well.
PPE requirements vary by role, but don’t worry, Habitat provides all necessary PPE.
On the construction site, the minimum required PPE includes a CSA-approved hard hat, safety glasses, and safety footwear.
In the ReStore, only CSA-approved safety footwear is required.
We also provide additional PPE as needed, such as gloves, knee pads, or masks. You’re welcome to bring your own gear if you prefer.
Yes! We offer several options for group volunteering:
Build Days
Build Events such as Industry Build or Women Build
Download the ReStore Group Volunteering package
Volunteering as a group at an upcoming special event (ground breakings, home dedications, casinos etc.)
Email us at volunteer@habitatsouthernab.ca