Application Process
for Regional Volunteers
Everything You Need to Know to Get Ready
This page outlines the steps, forms, and fees required for regional volunteers serving with HDA as part of our Hands to Homes initiative. It is designed to help you understand what happens after you decide to volunteer.
If you are brand new to volunteering with HDA, or if you’re a returning group planning on volunteering again this year, please start by submitting a Volunteer & Group Interest Form. Once you’ve heard back from our Volunteer & Community Coordinator, you’ll be ready to move forward with the application process.
The Regional Volunteer Application Process
We’ve broken the process into a few straightforward steps. Our team will guide you along the way.
Step 1: Submit a Volunteer & Group Interest Form
All regional volunteers – individuals and groups – begin by submitting a Volunteer & Group Interest Form. This helps us understand:
Who you are
When you’re hoping to volunteer
Whether you’re coming as an individual or group
Once we receive your interest form, our Volunteer & Community Coordinator will follow up to discuss availability, next steps, and whether your desired dates are a good fit.
Step 2: Review Available Dates
Volunteer opportunities are scheduled throughout the year and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
You can view open dates on our Volunteer Calendar to identify possible windows for service. Final dates are confirmed in coordination with our team.
Step 3: Register & Complete Required Forms
After your dates are confirmed, groups will be asked to complete the Volunteer Group Registration Form. Individual volunteers will be sent any forms they may need to complete.
Once a group’s application is reviewed and approved, we will provide access to any additional required forms and materials. Group leaders are responsible for ensuring that each participant completes their required forms.
Volunteer Fee for Regional Volunteers
Regional volunteers are asked to pay a $250 per person volunteer fee, which typically covers 4–5 days of work.
A $50 per person deposit is required by the date provided to you by our Volunteer & Community Coordinator. This deposit:
Secures your volunteer dates
Is sent by postal mail
Is non-refundable unless HDA cancels due to unforeseen circumstances
The remaining balance is due upon arrival.
Important notes:
Volunteer fees may be adjusted for shorter or longer stays
Groups participating in the Ultimate House Raising Challenge do not pay a volunteer fee
Where Volunteer Fees Go
The majority of volunteer fees directly support:
Construction materials
HDA carpenter time
Housing program costs that make this work possible
A small portion helps support the Volunteer Program and contributes to local church partners who provide volunteer lodging.
Deposit Mailing Address
Housing Development Alliance, Inc.
c/o Jane Rose Britton
P.O. Box 7284
Hazard, KY 41702
Required Forms & Documents
Forms You’ll Need to Complete
Below is a list of forms required for regional volunteers. Deadlines are noted where applicable.
Before Arrival (typically one month prior):
Due Upon Arrival:
Work Site Rules (paper version signed on site)
Helpful Planning Resources:
Volunteer Planning Guide (will be emailed to you / we also provide a printed copy in your welcome packet)
What to Expect Before You Arrive
Approximately one month before your volunteer dates, our Volunteer & Community Coordinator will contact you to:
Review logistics and group details
Confirm lodging and transportation plans
Discuss tentative work assignments
A tentative worksite plan is typically shared the week before arrival. If you do not hear from our team as expected, please call us at 606-436-0497.
Volunteer Checklist
Before You Arrive, Please Be Sure To:
Review the Volunteer Planning Guide
Share key information with all group members
Complete and sign required consent forms
Review Work Site Rules with your group
Review the Packing List
Prepare a list of all adult volunteers and cell phone numbers
Bring any remaining volunteer fee balance
Questions or Need Help?
We’re here to help make your experience smooth and well-prepared.
Contact:
Jane Rose “Janie” Britton, Volunteer & Community Coordinator
Phone: 606-436-0497