What is Habitat for Humanity?
Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit organization that builds housing for low-income families. Volunteers offering their time and donations from local individuals and organizations make Habitat’s mission possible.
Where does Habitat for Humanity build houses? Is it international?
Greater Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity is a local affiliate that serves the Albuquerque area. There are other such affiliates all over the world and more can be learned on Habitat for Humanity International’s website. We share a name and a vision with Habitat for Humanity International, but we are an independent corporation governed by a local board of directors.
A list of all affiliates serving the state of New Mexico can be found on Habitat International’s website.
Do local affiliates receive funding from Habitat for Humanity International?
Habitat for Humanity International creates funding partnerships with national corporations and invites specific affiliates to apply. Annually, these opportunities amount to 0-5% of Greater Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity’s budget. When a donor contributes to Habitat for Humanity International, and designates a specific affiliate, the affiliate receives 89% of the donation.
Does Greater Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity receive federal funds?
No.
How many houses do you build a year?
The number of houses we build annually is dependent on ReStore revenue, donations and grants received, volunteer availability, and land availability. Currently we average 5-6 homes/year.
Does Habitat give homes away?
No. Habitat for Humanity provides a zero-interest mortgage for which our partner families invest what we call “sweat-equity” by completing Homeowner Maintenance Education courses, working on their homes, and working on the homes of other homeowners. Once a homeowner receives the keys to his/her home, he/she must make on-time monthly payments toward that zero-interest mortgage.
How are Habitat homeowners selected?
Potential applicants are required to meet qualifications to become a homeowner. All applications submitted during open application period will be reviewed. The top scored, qualified families will be presented to the board for approval for the next homes to be built.
How long is it from the time I apply for a home until I close and move in?
Typically, families close on and move into their homes 18 months after their initial application is submitted. However, because our program relies on sponsors to fund houses, and community volunteers to help construct them, this time frame is variable. On the other hand, this time frame allows applicants to plan for their move, complete the sweat equity hours required by our program, and participate fully in the construction of their own homes.
Are the groundbreaking/opening ceremonies and dedications open to the public?
Yes, they are the best way to grasp the mission and experience the impact of Habitat in less than an hour. Opening ceremonies and home dedications are announced here on our Special Events page.
Do volunteers need to have special skills to work at a construction site?
We encourage volunteers with little to no experience. If any volunteers does have special skills, we still welcome them to join us.
Are there other ways to volunteer that aren't construction?
Yes, there are multiple ways volunteers can help out besides the construction site. They can assist with Outreach, Office, Events, and ReStore.
We are also always looking for new members for our various Committees as well as our Board of Directors.
How do I sign up for volunteer for construction or in the ReStore?
All interested volunteers can go online and register, and once they are done with that, they can check out the volunteer calendar. The calendar will list opportunities to participate at the Construction Site, ReStore and Office.
How far in advance do I need to schedule a group build day?
The sooner the better. Because we have a limited number of Home Constructions a year, we have a very high demand in volunteers and construction dates do get booked rather quickly, especially our weekend days.
Can youth volunteer?
Youth are certainly welcome to volunteer. On the construction site, we welcome youth as young as 16 years old. For the ReStore, we welcome youth as young as 14. All youth are required to have a parent/guardian 21 years or older present with them at all times and youth are limited to certain tasks and are restricted from handling power tools.
Where does my donation go?
Donors have the option to designate their contribution as general use or for construction. Donations designated for construction of homes are then restricted 100% for that purpose.
We typically have state tax credits available for donations of $1,000 . When applicable, the credit is equal to 50% of the donated amount. More information is available here.
Can I include Habitat in my will?
Yes, we accept gifts of cash, stocks, life insurance, IRA’s, etc. Your gift will increase the organization’s sustainability. More info is available here
What can I donate?
We have a list of items that we accept and do not accept available online. If it is not clear whether or not an item is accepted, feel free to call us at 505-265-0057.
Will you pick up my donation?
Habitat offers pick up service for large items, generally for 3 or more large items. Donors should call 505-265-0057 ext 103 for scheduling, or fill out our online Donation Pickup Request Form. Dispatch scheduling agent will contact you to set up a time and date for the pickup.
How can I donate my vehicle?
Vehicle donations are done through Cars for Homes.