Get Involved: Youth

Dallas Habitat’s youth volunteer opportunities aim help youth understand issues impacting their community, develop new skills, connect with mentors, and contribute to make a lasting positive impact.

Blue Hat Junior is a unique volunteer opportunity for students aged 14-18 to get hands-on experience at Dallas Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore. As a Blue Hat Junior volunteer, you will work closely with our ReStore team, developing practical skills in retail operations, customer service, and leadership, all while supporting Dallas Habitat’s mission to build affordable housing.

Through this program, students develop essential skills, learn about affordable housing challenges, and contribute to their community, all while earning volunteer hours for school.

Open to: Youth ages 14-18

Commitment:

• Attend an orientation and kickoff session
• Commit to a minimum of 6 volunteer hours per month
• Complete at least seven shifts during the program
• Parent or guardian consent required (for participants under 18)

Habitat University Junior is an exciting educational program designed for high school students (ages 16-18) passionate about making a difference in their communities. Through a combination of hands-on workshops, classroom instruction, and real-world experience, students, who we also refer to as Core Junior Volunteers, learn valuable skills in community service, sustainable building practices, and leadership.

Habitat University Junior is focused on equipping our Core Juniors with the skills and knowledge to positively impact their communities. As part of Dallas Habitat for Humanity, the students engage in volunteerism, leadership development, and project-based learning centered on sustainable construction and community outreach.

Program Structure

Habitat University Junior operates through three key stages:

1. Orientation: Students explore the Habitat mission, engage with volunteers, and decide if the program is a good fit.
2. Training: Building practical skills in construction, leadership, and teamwork.
3. Leadership: Students take on leadership roles, working closely with Core Volunteers, families, and sponsors.

 

What to Expect on the Build Site

• Volunteering in Action: Work alongside homeowners, Core Volunteers, and sponsors to build safe and affordable homes.
• Build Schedule:
• 7:45 AM – 8:00 AM: Volunteer Check-In
• 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM: Welcome & Safety Briefing
• 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM: Building activities with a break for lunch at 11:30 AM

Safety First

Safety is a top priority at Habitat for Humanity. All volunteers are required to wear hard hats, safety glasses, and closed-toe shoes. Safety instructions and equipment are provided on-site.

Graduation Requirements

To graduate as a Core Jr. Volunteer, students must:

• Attend an orientation session
• Complete at least 20 hours on the build site or in the wall shop
• Participate in community outreach activities, such as home dedications or volunteer fairs

 

Benefits of Joining Habitat University Junior

• Skill Development: Gain hands-on experience in construction and project management.
• Community Impact: Help make a tangible difference in local communities by working on Habitat projects.
• Leadership Opportunities: Build leadership skills through direct involvement in volunteer coordination.
• Recognition & Graduation: Receive a certificate and be recognized at a special graduation ceremony upon completion of the program.

 

Ready to make a lasting impact in your community? Sign up for Habitat University Junior and start your journey toward leadership and service. We can’t wait to welcome you to the build site!