Volunteer in our office
Our office staff oversees the day-to-day operations of Habitat for Humanity of Whatcom County by interacting with our partner home buyers, engaging volunteers, planning and coordinating builds and events, fundraising, bookkeeping, and managing data.
- Who can volunteer in the office?
Anyone over 16 (kids over 14 can volunteer alongside a parent) First time volunteers must complete a liability waiver, criminal background check and a brief orientation and safety training. We welcome everybody, regardless of ability, gender, religion or political views.
- Do I need office work experience?
Nope! In fact, our office is a great place to learn job skills such as data entry and using a multi-line phone system. Our staff members can provide direction, ensure work is being done correctly and safely, answer questions, and help you have a productive and meaningful experience.
- What sort of work do office volunteers do?
Our volunteers can do a variety of jobs depending on what they are interested in and what is needed. Most office volunteers work at our reception desk, answering phones, entering data, and helping us with projects around the office.
- What if the work involves things I am unable or unwilling to do?
We don’t want any Habitat volunteer to do work that might be outside their comfort level or ability. Please let a staff person know if there are tasks you can’t do and we will provide an appropriate alternative. Every helping hand can make a difference, regardless of the task.
- I’ve never volunteered with Habitat before. How do I get started?
Please visit our VolunteerHub page and create an account with us. Once your account is made, our Volunteer Coordinator, Shelly, will conduct a a criminal background check and invite you to sign up up for your first volunteer shift! For any questions, please call our office at 360.715.9170 ext. 1016 or email Shelly at volunteer@hfhwhatcom.org.
- I’ve done my orientation. Now, how do I sign up to volunteer?
Once you have completed your orientation and paperwork, call our office at 360.715.9170 or email us at volunteer@hfhwhatcom.org to sign up for volunteer opportunities that fit your interests and schedule.
- When/how often are volunteers needed in the office?
Our office is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and volunteers are needed during all business hours. While we love to have volunteers who can commit to working on a regular basis, we welcome anyone who can commit to helping for any amount of time.
- Where do I go?
Our office is located at 1825 Cornwall Avenue next to Woodsmiths Furniture. If you need directions or have any questions, please call our office at 360.715.9170.
- What should I wear?
Clothing that is casual but appropriate for an office environment.
- What should I bring with me?
Your enthusiasm and a sack lunch (if you plan to volunteer through the lunch hour).
Volunteer to be a Habitat intern
Habitat for Humanity of Whatcom County can provide many opportunities for internships, service learning projects, and high-school credit projects. If you’re interested in housing issues, construction, sustainable building practices, retail, community outreach, or other areas of interest, fill out the form below. We love working with passionate, motivated students, helping them design a learning project that will benefit both you and the community Habitat serves.
Volunteer for a special event
Events: Annually Habitat puts on fundraising and informational events in the community, such as our Annual Raise the Roof Auction every spring.
During these events, we need lots of help planning, soliciting business donations, preparing information packets, setting up and taking down tables and equipment, as well as staffing the event.
Special mailings: We also send out several mass mailings to our volunteers and donors every year, and often need help preparing these materials.
Specific skills and interests: There are many things that we do (and would like to do) that we need your help with! Are you a techie, tinkerer, organizer, or artist? We welcome volunteers with skills or interests in the following areas:
- Advertising
- Computer/technical support
- Event planning
- Fundraising
- Furniture and/or appliance repair
- Grant-writing
- Media writing/public relations
- Photography/videography
- Research
- Social media
- And more!
Ready to Make a Difference?
Questions? Contact us at volunteer@hfhwhatcom.org, or by phone at 360.715.9170 ext.1016.