FAQ
Volunteer services
How do I get started as a volunteer with Habitat?
To begin volunteering with Habitat, create a volunteer profile. After registering, you will complete a brief profile by answering a few introductory questions. You will then be guided through a short online orientation, and a background check will be conducted.
Once your profile has been reviewed and approved, you will be able to log in to your Better Impact account and sign up for volunteer shifts that fit your schedule.
What volunteer opportunities are available at Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay?
We have a diverse range of volunteer opportunities that contribute towards our mission. They include:
- Helping build homes on our construction sites
- Deconstructing home kitchens, washrooms and major appliances for donation
- Working in our warehouses
- Securing donations for Habitat ReStore
- Office administration
- At our ReStore
How old do you need to be to volunteer?
The minimum age to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay is 16 years of age.
What days & times can I volunteer? Do you have evening & weekend volunteer shifts?
Yes, we have volunteer opportunities from Monday to Sunday. We have flexible shifts that last from 4 to 8 hours. Book your shifts according to your schedule and a convenient time for you.
Is there a minimum number of hours that I am required to complete?
Not at all. We are thankful for your time, energy and passion. Most of our volunteer positions are free of a minimum time commitment. If you do require a letter confirming your volunteer hours, we request that you complete 40 volunteer hours with Habitat Thunder Bay.
Where are your volunteer opportunities located?
We have volunteer opportunities available throughout the Thunder Bay Area at our ReStore and active build sites.
What personal protective equipment am I required to bring when I volunteer at a ReStore or build site?
When you volunteer at a ReStore or build site you will need to wear CSA approved safety shoes or boots (with the green triangle). We have all of the necessary PPE available for our volunteers, as your safety is our number one priority. Please make sure to dress comfortably and are willing to get messy.
Do you take high school student volunteers?
We are pleased to assist high school students in the completion of their 40 hours of community service. The minimum age to volunteer at Habitat for humanity Thunder Bay is 16 years old.
Please note that all students are responsible for recording their hours and having their record sheet signed by the Volunteer Manager or contact
Can I complete a volunteer internship with Habitat Thunder Bay?
If you are currently completing an educational course, degree, or diploma, and are looking for a volunteer internship, contact our Volunteer Services team at community@habitattbay.com to discuss the opportunity.
Can I volunteer in more than one area, such as both construction and the ReStore?
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.
Homeownership program
How do you apply?
If you meet our qualification criteria, please take the online Eligibility Quiz. If you screen through, you will receive a link to the Online Application form.
What is the application and how long does it take?
There are 3 stages to being approved:
Stage 1, you will need to complete the application and submit the required documents.
Stage 2, we will ask for additional information and documents and also pull a credit check.
Stage 3, there are interviews and reference checks.
Applications are reviewed after each stage and will be declined or moved forward. If an application is declined, we will let you know why. Families can re-apply in one year and we encourage you to do so if you meet the criteria at that time. The average time it takes is 3 months but that also depends on the family and how quickly they send in their documents and answer questions.
What do you need to qualify for a Habitat home in Thunder Bay?
There are several criteria a family must meet to qualify for our Affordable Homeownership Program and many factors are taken into consideration. Please read the list of our basic qualification criteria carefully.
How do we complete 500 volunteer hours?
You’ll complete your 500 hours of volunteer time by helping on a build site, supporting your local ReStore, or assisting with other Habitat activities. Our team will work with you to create a schedule that fits your needs. Many families choose to involve friends and relatives to help complete their hours.
When can we start our 500 volunteer hours?
Once an application is approved, families must attend an Orientation Session. After this session, families can start volunteering for the hours that will be counted towards the 500 required hours for the home. Any volunteer hours completed before this are not included.