DURING YOUR WORKDAY:
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Arrive at our construction site by 8:15 a.m. and we will go over basic safety and construction methods critical for the day. Construction begins at 8:30 a.m. and could last until 3:30 p.m. DO NOT BE LATE. No one will be able to come and go during the day.
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Site location: 11353 W. River Road, Aylett, VA 23009
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Please wear appropriate clothing to the worksite. No open-toe shoes, baggy clothes, or jewelry. Keep the weather in mind, we work in all weather conditions. Rain will make the site muddy, so plan accordingly.
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Please eat a good breakfast before coming out to work with us. We want you to be ready for the day!
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Lunch is not provided, so bring a packed lunch. There will be a 30-minute break for lunch usually around 11:30 a.m. Do not leave the worksite during this time.
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Water, snacks, sunscreen, and bug spray are recommended.
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Please do not use your cell phones on the site, unless there is an emergency. Volunteering on an active construction site requires everyone’s full attention!
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We suggest you bring your own work gloves, however, some are available on-site. Other safety and protective equipment will be provided, as needed.
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Volunteers should be able to lift at least 25 pounds and stand for the majority of the workday.
- Volunteers must be 16 or older to participate. Minors must have a guardian present.
PARKING:
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There is a driveway on site, but you can also park at St. David's Episcopal Church (11291 W River Rd, Aylett, VA 23009) and walk carefully down to our property. (we are one lot down from the church on the same side of the road)
SAFETY:
- Please read our safety policy in order to be prepared to work on an active construction site.
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If you are not feeling well, have a fever, or have been exposed to COVID please stay home, and do not come and volunteer. We can always reschedule you!
CANCELLATIONS & CHANGES:
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Habitat reserves the right to cancel based on weather, or lack of work on a construction site.
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At times, there may also be changes in location in order to be the most productive in providing affordable housing in the community.
SUPPORT:
Build Days are a great opportunity to also become a financial supporter of the mission of Hanover and King William Habitat for Humanity.
We sell our homes well below market value so that our new homeowners will not be cost-burdened with a high mortgage payment. To keep our homes affordable to lower-income families, we rely on our volunteers and financial contributions from organizations and individuals to be successful. We are very grateful for your contribution of time and talent to our organization. If you are able, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to the organization so that we can continue to build homes for our community members in need of affordable housing. A financial contribution is not required to participate in build days.
Sponsors who donate $1,000 and above will receive acknowledgment of their support on our website, in our monthly newsletter, and on our social media channels.
All financial support, no matter the amount, is greatly appreciated. Make a donation online or send a check by mail to PO Box 2604 Mechanicsville, VA 23116.
ABOUT THE FUTURE HOMEOWNER:
Lealie Russ currently resides in King William County where she is a member of New Life Community Church in Aylett. She is a Deacon, sings in the choir, and leads intercessory prayer. She volunteers in the community by providing Thanksgiving meals to local families. Through New Life’s “Be the Church” program they will be providing community service to join in building her home.
Ms. Russ is a Personal Care Aide (PCA). She sits with and provides for sick or elderly patients. Her favorite verse says, “Let the work that I do speak for me.”
Lealie has three grown children. Her oldest daughter Elaine lives in a nursing facility in Colonial Heights. Amy lives in King William with Lealie’s grandson Jeremiah (18). Her youngest daughter Shantell is a school counselor and financial coach in northern VA.
After having open heart surgery in 2005 her income became unreliable resulting in unstable housing for her family. After she recovered, she was able to afford rent. She now lives in a second-floor apartment. Due to her bad hip, she struggles to climb the steep stairs.
Accessible housing is important to Ms. Russ because of her health and age. She says having her own home means that her daughters won’t have to worry about her so much! She won’t have to rely on others to carry her groceries inside for her. She said this home will be a blessing and she can’t wait to decorate it for the holidays!
Want to see our traditional volunteer packet? Download it here.
