Completing 500 volunteer hours
Everything you need to know about 500 volunteer hours
Volunteering is an important part of becoming a Habitat homeowner. Every family completes 500 volunteer hours before taking possession of their home.
While 500 hours might seem like a lot at first, most families find the experience rewarding, meaningful, and easier to complete than they expected.
Choose your community
Find location-specific details for completing 500 volunteer hours.
Calgary & area
Volunteer opportunities, schedules, and frequently asked questions for Calgary-area homeowners.
Medicine Hat
Volunteer opportunities, schedules, and frequently asked questions for Medicine Hat homeowners.
Why do Habitat homeowners volunteer?
Volunteer hours are an important part of the Habitat homeownership program. They demonstrate a family’s commitment to the partnership and help make affordable homeownership possible.
- Required by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
- Supports a no down payment mortgage
- Supports a no interest mortgage
- Build connections in your community
What counts towards the 500 hours?
There are several ways to complete your volunteer hours. Most families choose a combination of opportunities based on their interests, schedule, and location.
- Learn new skills while working with volunteers and future neighbours on the construction site.
- Support Habitat’s mission by helping in one of our ReStore locations.
- Complete online financial learning modules designed for future homeowners.
- Volunteer at fundraising and community events throughout the year.
Frequently asked questions
Volunteer requirements can vary slightly by location. Select your community above for detailed information about volunteer opportunities, schedules, and requirements.
Volunteer hours are part of the Habitat homeownership program. They demonstrate a family’s commitment to the partnership and help make affordable homeownership possible.
Most families complete their volunteer hours in about six months. Single-parent households must complete at least 15 hours per month, while two-parent households must complete at least 30 hours per month.
Yes. Children can contribute volunteer hours through artwork, thank-you cards, ReStore shifts, and construction opportunities, depending on their age.
Yes. Friends and family can contribute volunteer hours toward your total requirement, helping support your homeownership journey.
Once your application is approved, families must attend a Homeowner Orientation Session. After orientation, volunteer hours can begin counting toward the 500-hour requirement.
No experience is required. Habitat staff and experienced volunteers will provide training and support.
Email us at ownahome@habitatsouthernab.ca
I love the opportunity to not only work on our own home, but give back to other Habitat homeowners and build their homes too. You’re not just in it for yourself, but you’re in it to give back as well.