MENTOR A FAMILY

Too many people think that volunteering for Habitat for Humanity means swinging a hammer or raising the walls of a house. It is not houses that drive our Mission, rather families. Maybe this is how you would like to volunteer for Habitat.

Each family/person that is selected for a Habitat home is assigned a family partner. A family partner can be either an individual or a couple The ideal person(s) to partner with a family is a successful homeowner who is willing to share what/they have learned with a new family starting this experience for the first time.

Your role will range from mentor, to friend, to parental figure, to cheerleader as you keep the family on track throughout the home build, initial move-in, and first six months of home ownership. You will have the opportunity to work side-by-side with your family as you build their home.You will help them budget to save money and to be prepared for homeowner expenses.You will be the person who lifts them up when obstacles arise and provides the encouragement if they are not keeping up with the program.

Though it only takes several hours a month, accepting a position as a family partner is a long term commitment. The homeownership program takes a minimum of one year to complete and, based on the availability of building lots, could stretch out to 18 months or longer. And, part of the commitment is to continue to support the family during the first six months in their new home. You will be expected to keep in touch with your family on a weekly basis and attend monthly family meetings with the Habitat staff. By the time you have completed the process, you will have formed a lifetime bond of friendship with a wonderful family. It is an experience you will never forget.

If you would like to learn more about this volunteer opportunity, please call Sheila Pyott, Family Coodinator, at 541.385.5387 x 225 or email her at spyott@bendhabitat.org.