HDA’s mission is to use the power of housing to transform lives and build a brighter future for our community. To do that, HDA builds safe, affordable homes and repairs exists homes for low-income families and flood survivors in Eastern Kentucky. While our work happens year-round, special events allow volunteers, donors, and community members to play a focused, hands-on role in that mission.
At this time, our primary event-based volunteer opportunity is the Ultimate House Raising Challenge – an intensive, high-impact experience for large groups. From time to time, we may also host local repair or community-focused events to raise awareness of housing needs and bring neighbors together around this work.
The Ultimate House Raising Challenge is HDA’s premier volunteer experience and the centerpiece of our Hands to Homes initiative.
In just 4–5 days, a volunteer group works alongside HDA carpenters to frame and dry-in at least one new home for a family in need. It’s a demanding, meaningful challenge – and one of the fastest ways to make a visible, lasting impact.
Best for:
Churches
Colleges and universities
Corporate teams
Large volunteer groups
Support families recovering from flooding or living in substandard housing
Learn more about the affordable housing challenges facing Eastern Kentucky
Meet neighbors and build community connections
Take meaningful action that strengthens our mountain community
No construction experience is required. HDA carpenters are always on site to guide volunteers and ensure work is done safely and to standard.
Jane Rose Britton, Volunteer & Community Coordinator
Phone: 606-436-0497
1. Is there a cost for home repairs?
Yes – but repairs are made affordable. Most homeowners receive a combination of grants and low-interest loans based on income, household size, and the type of repair needed. We will explain all costs before any work begins.
2. Do I have to own my home to qualify?
Yes. The home must be owner-occupied, meaning you own the home and live in it. We are not able to repair homes you plan to move into or homes owned by someone else.
3. What kinds of repairs can you help with?
We focus on critical health and safety repairs, accessibility improvements, and major home rehabilitations. This can include roofs, floors, plumbing, electrical issues, ramps, HVAC (through a subcontractor), and more. Cosmetic repairs are generally not eligible.
4. How long will it take to hear back after I get started?
Due to high demand – especially following recent flood disasters – response and wait times are longer than usual. After you submit the Get Started form, our staff will contact you when your request reaches the next step. We appreciate your patience.
5. Why are there two forms?
We use two forms to make the process easier and more efficient for homeowners. The Get Started form is a short first step that lets us understand your situation and determine which repair programs may be a good fit. After reviewing that information, an HDA staff member will contact you to talk through next steps. The Home Repair Intake form is the full application and collects detailed information needed to determine eligibility and funding options. Most people begin with Get Started – our team will help you from there.
6. Does flooding affect my eligibility?
We assist homeowners who were affected or impacted by flooding, whether repairs are flood-related or not. Flood-related needs may qualify for specific funding sources, but all requests are reviewed individually.
Please fill out this contact form and let us know what kind of help you need. A member of our staff will contact you ASAP.
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Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the Housing Development Alliance (HDA)!
This form is the first step to serving with us through either our Traditional Volunteer Program (Hands to Homes) or our Ultimate House Raising Challenge, a signature part of our Hands to Homes initiative.
Once you submit this interest form, our Volunteer & Community Coordinator will follow up to discuss next steps, available dates, and required forms.
Individuals & local volunteers:
If you’re interested in volunteering on your own or as part of a small local group, you’re welcome to continue using this form. You may also contact our Volunteer & Community Coordinator directly at 606-436-0497 or janie@hdahome.org
Our Volunteer & Community Coordinator typically responds within one week. If you have not heard from us after submitting this form, please call 606-436-0497.
Please note: This is an interest form only. Additional forms and confirmations are required before volunteering is finalized.
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