Habitat for Humanity Teen Service Project
Service Learning Opportunity for Youth Volunteers
Jan 30, 2009
“Habitat for Humanity International is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry. HFHI seeks to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world and to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action.” (HFHI website, 2009)
HFHI recognizes that poverty, disaster, and civil unrest create tremendous worldwide needs for affordable, safe housing. It addresses this need primarily by building houses. HFHI was founded in 1976, and since that time 300,000 homes have been built worldwide.
Disaster Response Program
HFHI also provides a Disaster Response program which serves those who have been victims of natural disasters such as the 2008 earthquake in China, or have been displaced from their homes due to wars or civil unrest. Because these situations often involve entire communities, housing needs are tremendous in these areas.
How Habitat for Humanity Works
Volunteers donate their time, effort, and materials, working with partner families to build or rehabilitate simple homes. The houses are then sold to the partner families through affordable loans which help to finance future habitat projects. Local Habitat affiliates are also asked to pledge 10% of their money towards projects in other countries. Currently, HFHI operates in 90 countries as well as in each state of the US.
Benefits for Teen Volunteers
Habitat is a great service project for teens because home building requires a variety of skills and strengths. Kids are sure to be able to find a role that suits their abilities, and will likely also learn new skills along the way. They will learn to problem solve and work as a team. They will also gain valuable experience in working with people of different ages and from different backgrounds, expanding their world. Perhaps most importantly, their self esteem will be enhanced through the knowledge that their efforts are truly changing the lives of families right in their own communities.
Learn More about Habitat for Humanity
Kids can learn more about the various international projects through the HFHI website, find out how they can make donations, read personal accounts of both homeowners and volunteers who have participated in Habitat projects, and see photos and videos of the projects in various stages of completion. Those interested in volunteering can also find local affiliates and learn about current Habitat initiatives in their area.
Involvement in Habitat is a great opportunity for kids. It will empower them, help them develop empathy, and encourage understanding of people who are different from themselves.
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