Habitat for Humanity of the New River Valley

1675 N Franklin St, Christiansburg, VA 24073

(540) 381-1144

Volunteer FAQs:
Habitat for Humanity of the New River Valley (HFHNRV) thanks you for considering to volunteer
to build affordable homes for our hard working families. We are presently building a 7-plex of
townhomes in downtown Blacksburg (780 Church Street SE).
Please see below for FAQs:

Here is a rendering of the build:

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Here is a map of where we are building:

Can I just show up at the build?

Please do not just show up at the build. We have a limit for the number of volunteers
that can volunteer on the build at one time. Also, as you will see as you read on, safety
is our #1 priority.
To sign up to volunteer, please follow the instructions immediately below.
How do I sign up to volunteer? Please start this process at least a week before you want to
volunteer:
1. Register as a new volunteer at VolunteerUp!
(https://volunteerup.com/Login.asp?w=i&o=304).
If you already have a VolunteerUP profile, please complete your required online
safety courses (see below).

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 If you already have a VolutneerUP profile and have current (2) safety course
completion certificates please select the “Church St Build” day you want to
volunteer and sign yourself up.

If the date is full, then please pick another day to volunteer or contact the Volunteer
Coordinator at Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org, or (540) 381-1144.
2. Take the required online safety course:
We require volunteers to complete the "Volunteering on a Habitat for Humanity
Job Site" AND “Portable Power Tool Safety” online courses (by 5 business days
before your volunteer date. These will take approximately 15-20 minutes to
complete). You are also welcome to learn more about various construction skills
with our online tutorials! Here's how to access those:

 Go to http://hfhaffiliateinsurance.com/2013/03/online-safety-training-courses/
 Click "BEGIN NOW"
 The access code is generated when you click "BEGIN NOW" and will be in the left
column.
 All volunteers should take "Volunteering on a Habitat for Humanity Job Site"
near the bottom of the second column, recommended courses.
 Please be sure to watch the complete course.
 Please take the short quiz at the end.
 Please “Submit” your name (and Virginia as the state) for a completion
certificate to be sent to “Habitat for Humanity Inc of the New River
Valley.”
 Also, the "Portable Power Tool Safety" course must be completed.
 The other courses in that second column (except defensive driving and ReStore
Safety) are valuable. ***
 We are notified when courses are successfully completed.

** If you don’t complete these safety course by 5 business days before your volunteer
date, you may not be allowed to volunteer (we keep a waiting list, and you may lose
your spot). We are notified when your training has been completed.

*** If your computer (tablet, phone, etc.) has issues, please use a different device
and/or browser.

(You only have to redo both safety courses when it is substantially changed. We will
let you know. But, if you take them once, you should be good for a long time and not
have to retake them for many years.)

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 3. Once you have completely filled out your (a) VolunteerUp profile, and (b) taken the
online safety courses (and passed the quizzes), you will receive an email from us
(within 1 business day) so that you can sign up for your volunteer build date.

Please consider volunteering at our ReStore is a great way to see how an important part
of Habitat NRV contributes to our mission! Please contact us if you would like to
volunteer in our ReStore (and/or help us with administrative projects) at
Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org and (540) 381-1144.
How do I sign up a group?

Register as a new volunteer at VolunteerUp!

(https://volunteerup.com/Login.asp?w=i&o=304). Once you have signed in, you will see
which dates are available to volunteer. You can sign up for the date you want by
registering yourself and up to 14 guests (on Saturdays. Wednesday – Friday: up to 11
guests/volunteers).
The Volunteer Coordinator will be in touch with you for more information. If you have
questions, please contact her at Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org or (540) 381-1144.
Please make sure you keep Volunteer Coordinator informed of any add/drops (even up
to the last minute).
Please make sure that your individual teammates complete their online safety training
at least 5 business days before your volunteer date (otherwise some of your spots may
be given away to volunteers that sign up to be on the Waiting List).
What is the maximum number of people that can volunteer?

Typically, 15 is the maximum number of people who can volunteer at the build on
Saturdays. 12 is the maximum number of people who can volunteer on Wednesdays –
Fridays.

For larger groups, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at

Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org or (540) 381-1144.

Please make sure you keep the Volunteer Coordinator informed of any add/drops (even
up to the last minute).
Can children volunteer?
Typically, no one under 16 years-old is allowed to volunteer on the build site. Volunteers
under 18 years-old need to have a guardian’s consent are allowed.
Occasionally, there are opportunities for children (under 16 years-old) to help. Please
contact the Volunteer Coordinator at Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org or (540) 381-1144, to
find out the next time that children can volunteer.

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What is the time commitment?
Please be at the build by 9 am for safety instructions and building instructions. There is a
break for lunch, and the day wraps up by 4 pm.

If you have to leave before 4 pm, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at
Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org or (540) 381-1144. We will communicate with the
Construction Manager to make sure it is okay.
Please do not show up after 9 am. 9 am is the start of our work day and when the
Construction Manager gives safety and build instructions for the day. Please do not rely
on your friends or co-workers to “catch you up to speed” if you arrive late. Safety is the
most important aspect of our build. It is imperative that a volunteer “check in” with our
Construction Manager when you arrive to the build.
Liability waiver:
A liability waiver will be provided prior to the volunteer build date (or go here:
https://volunteerup.com/Waivers/NewRiver_Waiver.pdf). Please fill out the form
completely and print legibly, and bring it to the build.
Do I need to have any building skills?
We welcome everyone. The only skills necessary is the willingness to work, and follow
directions on a construction site safely. You will be taught everything you need to know.
If you do have construction experience, that’s fantastic!

What will happen on the build site?

At 9 am, Dan Crowder, our Construction Project Manager will welcome you and provide
safety and building instructions. Sometimes you will be building walls, painting,
installing cabinets, or any number of things that it takes to build a townhome. This work
sometimes includes using power tools. Dan (or another build supervisor) will give you
specific instructions and guidance to complete your task.
At around 12 noon, there will be a 30-45 minute break for lunch.

At around 3:30 pm cleanup will start. Everyone is welcome to leave after cleanup is
completed.

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Will power tools be used by volunteers?
Yes, sometimes power tools will be used by volunteers. All volunteers are required to
take the Power Tool Safety Course before they can volunteer:

 Go to http://hfhaffiliateinsurance.com/2013/03/online-safety-training-courses/
 Click "BEGIN NOW"
 The access code is generated when you click "BEGIN NOW" and will be in the left
column.

Where is the build?

780 Church Street SE, Blacksburg. It is on the corner of Church Street and Hemlock Drive
SE (across the street from the Blacksburg Presbyterian Church). Please park in the
church parking lot or along the street (at least 500 feet away from the construction site.
The map is on page 2).
When am I supposed to show up?
Please show up no later than 9 am.
Will lunch be provided?

Lunch is typically not provided. Please bring your own lunch, or you will have time to
walk or drive to get lunch. Our build is within somewhat easy walking distance to some
restaurants in downtown Blacksburg. The closest restaurants are:

 BB Cup (Asian) (540) 739-3064 6 minute walk 3/10ths mile

 Mellow Mushroom (540) 605-7074 7 minute walk, 4/10ths mile
 Cabo Fish Taco (540) 552-0950 8 minute walk, 4/10ths mile
 Blacksburg Tavern (Thurs-Sat) (540) 552-8876 9 minute walk, 5/10ths mile
Typically, lunchtime is around 12 noon.
When do we stop working?
Cleanup usually starts around 3:30 pm (sometimes earlier). Please plan to stay until
cleanup is finished. The workday will end after the site is clean and tools have been put
away.

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What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothes appropriate for the work and weather. Wear items
that can get stained, ripped, muddy, paint-spackled, etc. Shirts must have at least a t-
shirt length sleeve. You must wear closed toed shoes - do not wear flip flops, backless
shoes or Crocs. For safety, do not wear loose, oversized clothing or dangling jewelry.
Summer months can be hot/humid (shorts are okay. You are encouraged to wear
sunscreen) and it can get very cold on site in the winter. Please dress appropriately.
What should I bring?

Please bring a water bottle, hat, sunscreen, (scant shade is available), and your lunch (or
money for lunch).
Also, please bring your Liability Waiver
(https://volunteerup.com/Waivers/NewRiver_Waiver.pdf). Please fill out the form
completely and print legibly.
Should I bring my own tools?
Personal safety equipment (gloves, eye protection, hard hats) are provided. However,
volunteers are welcome to bring their own tools. HFHNRV strongly suggests that you
identify/label your tools.
If the weather is forecasted to be inclement:

If there is inclement weather forecasted for your build date (that will prevent us from
building), you will receive an email 24 hours in advance telling you that your build has
been cancelled. Please know that cancellation of build dates is rare, but it does happen.

Prior to 24 hours before your build, if you have concerns about the weather for your
build, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org or (540)
381-1144.

Please contact our Construction Manager, Dan Crowder, for further instructions at
(540) 818-6835.

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What should I expect Prior To MY Volunteering Experience:
Once you have registered to volunteer on VolunteerUP, you will receive an email confirming:

1. If you have newly registered on VolunteerUP, you will receive a confirmation email that
you are registered.
2. Once you have successfully completed the required online safety courses, we will email
you so that you can sign up to volunteer. You will also receive the liability waiver.
If you haven’t completed the required safety training 5 business days before your
volunteer date, you may lose your spot on your desired build date.

Other important information:

Valuables:

Personal valuables will not be safe on the work site. We accept no responsibility for lost
or stolen items. We highly recommend that you do not bring items that you consider
valuable to our work site. We will provide all the tools and materials you will need to
participate.
Security:

Security must be maintained on the work site. Concealed weapons, drugs, or alcoholic
beverages of any kind are absolutely not permitted on an HFHNRV work site. Violators
will be asked to leave.
Animals/Pets:
Animals/pets are not allowed on the work site. HFHNRV discourages volunteers from
feeding stray animals or pets.
Media:

Media in the New River Valley are always welcome to cover HFHNRV events. If you see
media on the site by themselves – please alert a Habitat staff member as soon as
possible.
If you are part of a group and want media present, we ask that you let us know before
you arrange them to come.
Thank you for volunteering!
If you have any questions, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at Habitat for Humanity of
the New River Valley, at (540) 381-1144 or Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org.
More information: www.HabitatNRV.org

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 Habitat for Humanity of the New River Valley
1675 N Franklin St, Christiansburg, VA 24073
(540) 381-1144

ReStore Volunteer FAQs:

Habitat for Humanity of the New River Valley (HFHNRV) thanks you for considering to volunteer
at the ReStore.
Please see below for FAQs:

Do I have to complete Safety Orientation before I can sign up to volunteer?

Yes! You have to complete orientation once (5 business days in advance of your volunteer date.
You may possibly get an exception if you contact the Volunteer Coordinator at
Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org and 540-381-1144) then you can sign up as many times as you
want afterward.
We require you to complete "New Employee Safety Orientation" online safety course. Make
sure Adobe Flash is installed on your web browser to ensure safety courses work properly!
1. Go to www.hfhaffiliateinsurance.com
2. Click "BEGIN NOW"
3. The access code is generated when you click "BEGIN NOW" and will be in the left column.
4. All ReStore volunteers should take "New Employee Safety Orientation" near the bottom of
the first column.
5. If you are interested in additional courses, we also recommend "Back Safety" and "Workplace
Safety for Employees", but these are not required to sign up.

Can Safety Courses count toward my volunteer hours?

Yes, safety courses do count toward hours. Please indicate on your profile which courses you
have taken upon signing up. We receive safety certificates shortly after completion.

How do I sign up to volunteer?

Register as a new volunteer at VolunteerUp (https://volunteerup.com/Login.asp?w=i&o=304).
Once you have signed in, you will see dates that are available to volunteer on the calendar.
Select the day and shift you want to volunteer and sign yourself up.

How do I sign up a group?

Register as a new volunteer at VolunteerUp (https://volunteerup.com/Login.asp?w=i&o=304).
Once you have signed in, you will see which dates are available to volunteer. You can sign up for
the date and shift you want by registering yourself and up to 1 guest.

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The Volunteer Coordinator will be in touch with you for more information. If you have
questions, please contact Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org or (540) 381-1144.

What is the maximum number of people that can volunteer?

Typically, 2 is the maximum number of people who can volunteer at the ReStore per shift.
Several times a year there are larger ReStore projects that need more than 2 volunteers.
Typically, as a registered volunteer, you will receive an email notification about these special
projects and they will be displayed on the calendar.
For larger groups (3+), please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org
and at (540) 381-1144.

Can children volunteer?

Typically, no one under 16 is allowed to volunteer at the ReStore. But, children 13+ can
volunteer if there is an adult who volunteers at the same time.
Occasionally, there are opportunities for children to help. Please contact the Volunteer
Coordinator at Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org and (540) 381-1144, to find out the next time that
children can volunteer.

How do I get a Liability Waiver?

A liability waiver will be provided prior to your volunteer date (or go here:
https://volunteerup.com/Waivers/NewRiver_Waiver.pdf). Please fill out the form completely,
and print legibly.
Please bring a completed liability waiver with you when you volunteer.

Do I need to have any skills?

We welcome everyone. The only skills necessary is the willingness to work in a retail store
environment. You will be taught everything you need to know. If you do have retail experience,
that’s fantastic!

What will happen at the ReStore when I arrive?

At the start of your shift, our ReStore General Manager (Jodie Rutzinski), or an Assistant
ReStore Manager will welcome you and provide safety and work instructions. Sometimes you
will be receiving donations at our dock, organizing shelves, rearranging the store, cleaning,
painting, organizing our warehouse, etc. or any number of things that it takes to run a
successful retail store. They will give you specific instructions and guidance to complete your
task.

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Where is the ReStore?
1675 N. Franklin Street, Christiansburg. It is across the street from the Christiansburg Rec
Center.

What is the time commitment?

There are 2 shifts per day:
• 11 am – 2 pm
• 2 – 5 pm
Please be at the ReStore at the beginning of your shift for safety and work instructions.

When am I supposed to show up?

Please be at the ReStore at the beginning of your shift for safety and work instructions.
There are 2 shifts per day:
• 11 am – 2 pm
• 2 – 5 pm

Will lunch or dinner be provided?

Lunch and dinner are typically not provided. Please have your lunch or dinner before or after
your shift. Our ReStore is within easy walking distance to McDonalds and Sam’s Hot Dog Stand.

When do we stop working?

Please plan to stay until the end of your shift. Please check with Jodie or the Assistant Manager
before you leave for the day.
There are 2 shifts per day:
• 11 am – 2 pm
• 2 – 5 pm

What should I wear?

Please wear comfortable clothes appropriate for the work day. Wear items that can get dirty,
ripped, etc. Shirts must have at least a tee shirt length sleeve. You must wear closed toed shoes
- do not wear flip flops, backless shoes or Crocs. For safety, do not wear loose, oversized
clothing or dangling jewelry. Summer months can be hot/humid (shorts are allowed) and it can
get very cold in the winter (wear layers). Please dress appropriately.

3
What should I bring?
Please bring a great attitude to help in any way you can.
Also, please do not forget to bring your Liability Waiver
(https://volunteerup.com/Waivers/NewRiver_Waiver.pdf). Please fill out the form completely
and print legibly.

Should I bring my own tools?

Personal safety equipment (gloves, eye protection, etc.) are provided when needed. We
strongly suggest that you do not bring any tools.

What if the weather is forecasted to be inclement?

Check the VolunteerUp Calendar, your volunteer day may be labelled as “Cancelled”. As long as
you entered your contact information correctly (Phone, Email) you will be informed of
cancellations. Please reach out to Jodie at (540) 381-1155 if the day has not been cancelled and
you are unable to make it.

Should I bring personal items with me?

Personal valuables will not be completely safe at the ReStore. We accept no responsibility for
lost or stolen items. We highly recommend that you do not bring items that you consider
valuable to the ReStore. We will provide all the tools and materials you will need to volunteer.

What are the security procedures?/What if I see someone suspicious?

Security must be maintained at the ReStore. Concealed weapons, drugs, or alcoholic beverages
of any kind are absolutely not permitted at the ReStore. Violators will be asked to leave. If you
see someone suspicious, let a manger know!

Can I bring Animals/Pets?

Animals/pets are not allowed at the ReStore (by volunteers).

Is there a media policy?

Media reporters in the New River Valley are always welcome to cover ReStore activities and
events. If you see a media reporter at the ReStore by themselves – instantly alert a Habitat staff
member.

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Habitat for Humanity of the New River Valley very much appreciates your volunteer efforts.
Without volunteers like you, Habitat wouldn’t be as successful as we are.
Donations at our ReStore are critical to our success. We try to keep our ReStore full so
that people in our community can purchase affordable items for home improvements
and furnishing. The ReStore generates about a third of all of Habitat NRV’s revenue.
That revenue goes right into building more affordable homes for families in our area.

Thank you again for volunteering!

If you have any questions, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at Habitat for Humanity of
the New River Valley, at (540) 381-1144 or Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org.

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 Habitat for Humanity of the New River Valley 1675
N Franklin St, Christiansburg, VA 24073
(540) 381-1144

Administrative/Office Volunteer FAQs:

Habitat for Humanity of the New River Valley (HFHNRV) thanks you for considering to volunteer
with our office staff.
How do I sign up to volunteer? Please start this process at least a week before you want to
volunteer:

1. Register as a new volunteer at VolunteerUp!

(https://volunteerup.com/Login.asp?w=i&o=304), and please select the “OFFICE”
day you want to volunteer and sign yourself up.
If the date is full, then please pick another day to volunteer or the Volunteer
Coordinator at Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org, or (540) 381-1144.

2. Once you have completely filled out your (a) VolunteerUp profile you will receive an
email from us so that you can sign up for your volunteer build date.

Please know that volunteering in our offices is a great way to see how an important part
of Habitat NRV contributes to our mission!

Can children volunteer?

Typically, no one under 16 is allowed to volunteer in our offices. But, children 13+ can
volunteer if there is an adult who volunteers at the same time.
Occasionally, there are opportunities for children to help (without an adult to also have to
volunteer at the same time). Please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at
Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org or (540) 381-1144, to find out the next time that children can
volunteer.

Do I need to have any skills?

We welcome volunteers who have basic office skills including Microsoft Office Suite of
equivalent. Besides this requirement, you will be taught everything you need to know. If you do
have administration/office experience, that’s fantastic!
Prior to volunteering, the Volunteer Coordinator will be in contact with you to find out what
experience you do have, and what types of work/projects you prefer, and what hours you will

Page 1 of 4
be able to volunteer. Based on that information, your work/project will be described, and the
individual that you will work with will be identified. This Habitat NRV employee will reach out
to you and be your primary contact.
What is the time commitment?
We ask that office volunteers volunteer for at least 15 hours (within a month).

When am I supposed to show up?

Your employee contact will coordinate with you when you will be volunteering. Please show up
at the agreed time and on the specific days.

Where are the Administrative Offices of Habitat NRV?

They are located at the back right of the ReStore at 1675 N. Franklin Street, Christiansburg. It is
across the street from the Christiansburg Rec Center.

What Will happen at the Offices When I Arrive?

At the beginning, your employee (that you will be working with) will welcome you, provide
basic work instructions, show you around the ReStore, introduce you to at least most of the
employees (for those employees that you aren’t introduced to, please feel free to introduce
yourself to them!), and ask you to sign a Confidentiality Agreement.
Sometimes you will be working on projects that relate to fundraising, volunteers, event
planning, data entry, filing, coordinating volunteers, thanking volunteers, organizing items, etc.
or any number of things that it takes to run a successful non-profit. They will give you specific
instructions and guidance to complete your tasks/project.

Will lunch or dinner be provided?

Lunch and dinner are typically not provided. Please have your lunch or dinner before or after
your shift (or please feel free to bring your lunch. You are welcome to eat at a desk or in our
break room). Our ReStore is within easy walking distance to McDonalds and Sam’s Hot Dog
Stand.

When do we stop working?

Please plan to stay until the end of the time that you agreed to. Please check with your
employee contact before you leave for the day.

What should I wear?

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Please wear comfortable office casual clothes appropriate for the work day. For safety, do not
wear loose, oversized clothing or dangling jewelry. Please dress appropriately.

What should I bring?

Please bring a great attitude to help in any way you can.
Should I bring my own computer?
If possible, yes. We have a limited number of office computers and some of your work may
require you to get online to use some of our online services. We have Wi-Fi in our offices for
connection purposes.

What if the weather is forecasted to be inclement?

Check the VolunteerUp Calendar, your volunteer day may be labelled as “Cancelled”. As long as
you entered your contact information correctly (phone, email) you will be informed of
cancellations. Please reach out to your employee contact at (540) 381-1144 if the day has not
been cancelled and you are unable to make it.

Should I bring personal items with me?

Personal valuables will not be completely safe at the ReStore. We accept no responsibility for
lost or stolen items. We highly recommend that you do not bring items that you consider
valuable to the ReStore. We will provide all the tools and materials you will need to volunteer.

What are the security procedures?/What if I see someone suspicious?

Security must be maintained at the ReStore. Concealed weapons, drugs, or alcoholic beverages
of any kind are absolutely not permitted at the ReStore. Violators will be asked to leave. If you
see someone suspicious, let an employee know!

Can I bring Animals/Pets?

Animals/pets are not allowed at the ReStore (by volunteers).

Is there a media policy?

Media reporters in the New River Valley are always welcome to cover Habitat NRV activities
and events. If you see a media reporter at the ReStore by themselves – instantly alert a Habitat
staff member.

Habitat for Humanity of the New River Valley very much appreciates your volunteer efforts.
Without volunteers like you, Habitat wouldn’t be as successful as we are.

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Your assistance greatly helps our efforts to run a successful Habitat affiliate. Also,
donations at our ReStore are critical to our success. The ReStore generates about a third of
all of Habitat NRV’s revenue.
That revenue and our efforts support building more affordable homes for families in our area.

Thank you again for volunteering!

If you have any questions, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at Habitat for Humanity of
the New River Valley, at (540) 381-1144 or Volunteer@HabitatNRV.org.

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