may 2008: new orleans trip with habitat for humanity

As you may know, one of topics at the National SWAA conference this year is Katrina recovery. The UH chapter of SWAA thought that it would be a relevant and meaningful way to tie in our knowledge with action by taking a weekend trip to New Orleans to help build a home with Habitat for Humanity. For those of you who are unfamiliar with Habitat for Humanity, here are some frequently asked questions and the relevant answers.

1. First of all, what is Habitat for Humanity (HFH)?

HFH NOLA’s mission statement is “to build houses in partnership with sponsors, volunteers, communities, and homeowner families, whereby families are empowered to transform their own lives and to eliminate poverty housing in the New Orleans area while serving as a catalyst to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action.”

2. How many days does the project last?

Volunteers are asked to work for one full day (7:30AM to 3:00PM). Our project day will be a Saturday in May so most of us plan to leave Houston on Friday evening and come back Sunday morning. For those who would like to come back on Saturday evening, you are welcome to do so.

3. What does it cost?

It is free to volunteer with HFH NOLA if the group is less than 15. For this reason, we will limit the number of volunteer spots to 15. You are responsible for the cost of your own transportation, food and lodging.

4. Do you have to have any experience with construction?

Construction expertise is helpful but definitely not a requirement. HFH invites volunteers of all levels of experience.

5. How are we getting there? Where are we staying?

We will definitely be carpooling and we will caravan as much as our schedules possibly allow. Because everyone’s comfort requirements vary when it comes to hotels, we will leave it up to you as to where you’d like to stay. HFH does have several discounted options available.

6. Details, give me more details!

We can work out all the specific details but we need to decide on a date first.

Please only vote on a date if you are seriously considering going. I would hate to pick a date because a lot of people voted for it only to have a handful actually end up going and exclude those who really want to go.

The available dates are:

May 3

May 10

May 17

May 31

Vote by leaving a comment on this post. Please state your first and last name and your preferred dates. Yes, you can vote for more than one Saturday, just list them in order of preference.

We’ll close voting on March 7, 2008 so be sure to get in your vote before then!

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