Habitat for Humanity York Region knows that one key to building strong and sustainable community relationships is to involve youth and students in all aspects of our organization.
Small building projects - Young people can often build house components on their school grounds, with its permission, if other building opportunities are not available. Students can construct tool sheds, trusses and wall units or paint baseboard and trim.
Fund raising - Youth and affiliates can partner to raise funds. Please be sure to always inform affiliates of your fundraising plans to ensure that both groups are not approaching the same donors. For events, young people can assist with planning, logistics, securing sponsors, and event staffing.
Community education - Work together to identify churches, community groups and corporations to invite into partnership with Habitat. Youth can team up with affiliate representatives to visit various organizations and educate them about substandard housing in the community, and about Habitat's mission.
Media relations – Youth work teams are an excellent way to draw media attention to an event. Young people and affiliates can work together to draft press releases, make pitch calls to local media and participate in media interviews.
Co-Op Placements - Students bring a great deal of knowledge and skill that might be helpful to an affiliate. They can also gain valuable work experience and possibly earn academic credit by volunteering with the affiliate. Match student interests with affiliate needs. Students can serve in many different roles, such as volunteer coordinator, computer technician, public relations assistant or family nurture coordinator.
House dedications and ground breakings - Work together to schedule and plan the next house dedication or groundbreaking ceremony - recruit speakers, contact the local media and arrange for beverages or snacks.
Family profiles - Create a family profile “scrapbook” for each homeowner family. Include information on their background, what brought them to Habitat and pictures chronicling the progress on their home.
Work with other youth-serving groups - Work together to develop relationships with local Boy Scout or Girl Scout Troops, elementary school students or other youth groups. Children who get involved with Habitat at an early age are more likely to continue volunteering as they get older.
Preparing lunches - Chapter members at high schools and colleges can help the affiliate by preparing lunches or snacks and serving them to Saturday volunteer groups.