Habitat Recruits Construction Leaders

Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis is actively recruiting individuals for their Construction Leadership Training Program. The program offers individuals an opportunity to make a difference in the St. Louis community while receiving construction and leadership training. No experience is necessary. The training program begins September 18, with classes held on Saturdays (two classes), or Tuesday evenings (six classes).

Trainees receive instruction on construction leadership and job site safety, flooring and stair basics, siding, windows flashing and soffits, cabinets, trim and doors and framing. Training also includes on-site field days.

A large volunteer base of construction leaders is essential to Habitat's success in building homes. New leaders are needed as the number of homes Habitat has built has increased each year. This year Habitat will build 30 homes; by the year 2015 Habitat has set as a goal of building 50 homes each year.

Construction Leaders must be at least 18 years of age. Leaders are needed on Saturdays throughout each build. Past Leaders have included individuals aged 20 to 80 who want to contribute to the community by helping eliminate substandard housing in St. Louis; construction professionals, do-it-yourselfers, students, green building/sustainability enthusiasts, retirees and volunteers from faith communities. Robert "Uncle Bob" Porter was brought to a Habitat Blitz Build in 2001 by his niece. Now almost 80, he has been a house leader for five years. Henry Dayringer began his housing leading career in 2001, and has dedicated each Wednesday during the summer to volunteer.

Registration for the Construction Leadership classes will be available in August. Sign up on-line at http://www.habitatstl.org or contact Volunteer Services Manager, Jacinta Witherspoon at or 314-371-0400, with questions or for additional information.

Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis is a not-for-profit, ecumenical housing ministry working in partnership with individuals and communities of all faiths to improve living conditions and provide affordable housing in the St. Louis community. Each homeowner family invests 350 hours of "sweat equity" into their home and other projects. Sponsors include corporations, organizations, religious groups, and individuals.

Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis regularly ranks among the top Habitat for Humanity affiliates in the country. Habitat is currently building 17 houses in the Old North St. Louis Neighborhood all to LEED Certified Platinum standards. This is the 1st LEED ‘Neighborhood Development' in Missouri. To date, Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis has built 283 homes in the St. Louis metropolitan area. Habitat is building its 300th home in St. Louis; it will be dedicated in September. This October will mark the 25th Anniversary Year for Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis.

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