Frequently Asked Questions : for Global Village groups

Who can participate?

Habitat for Humanity welcomes anyone who will work with us to eliminate poverty housing worldwide. We welcome volunteers from all faiths and backgrounds, and also work with beneficiaries from all faiths and backgrounds. There are some age restrictions for volunteers, and we try to accommodate volunteers with disabilities.

How much does a Global Village trip cost?

Direct costs include travel, accommodation, insurance, food and water. Direct costs will normally range from £800 to £1,500 per Global Village volunteer.

We also ask teams to raise a donation of £350 or more for Habitat for Humanity. With this we can fund building costs where you will be working. In fact, many teams become so successful at fundraising, using the fundraising toolbox, that they are able to raise much more than £350 per team member, funding the building of even more houses. In most countries, team fundraising will fund at least one complete house.

Why volunteer, why not just send money?

Money is vital for Habitat for Humanity to achieve its mission of a world where everyone has a decent place to live. Only 5% of Habitat houses are built with overseas volunteer involvement. Yet the impact of volunteers goes beyond the labour and the money that volunteers bring. They also bring laughter and enthusiasm, and leave the Habitat beneficiaries and local communities with the sense that they are not alone - there are people far away who understand and care for their plight.

Why do we have to pay a donation?

What will the accommodation be like?

How many days do we build for?

The number of building days depends on the length of time you choose to spend in the country, which is usually 10-14 days. Teams usually build for 7-10 days, over a period of two weeks, but this can be flexible to suit the needs of your group. The remaining days are spent discovering more about the culture and community.

What kind of construction work will we do?

This will depend on the local building techniques and the stage of the build, but could be mixing cement, laying blocks, digging foundations, plastering or painting. No building experience is necessary. All you need is enthusiasm and motivation to take part. The master builders on site will ensure you learn all you need to know as you work.

How much does a Habitat for Humanity house cost?

There is great variation, but the average figure for house construction and overhead costs is £1,235. In many situations houses are sold and the repayments go into a revolving fund for new houses. In other situations, such as for child led families (where the parents have died of aids) the houses are given away. These houses can only be built where there is money on the table either from grants or volunteers.