What is Carpenters for Christ?

Carpenters for Christ, a ministry of HPUMC since 1995, has made the largest commitment to Habitat for Humanity of any single congregation in the world. We work to lift families out of poverty by helping to provide decent and affordable housing.

What is the time commitment?

Work days are on Saturdays and a few Wednesdays. Check-in is at 7:45 am, and we finish by 3 pm. Lunch is provided.

• Day 1: Stand and brace walls. Cap plate if possible.
• Day 2: Load, stand, and brace trusses. Sheath walls.
• Day 3: Install sub-fascia, blue board, and porch columns. Sheath gables.
• Day 4: Install exterior doors and windows, trim porch, and other exterior items.
• Day 5: Complete trim and install the soffit. Siding prep and begin siding installation.
• Day 6: Complete siding. Begin paint prep.
• Day 7: Finish trim. Paint.
• Day 8: Finish painting. Punch list. Dedication.

Is there a minimum age requirement to volunteer?

Yes, here are the Habitat for Humanity age restrictions:

• Under 16 years of age: not allowed on-site during any phase of construction.

• 16 to 17 years old: allowed to participate with one adult (over 21) per five youth; not allowed to operate power tools or get on the roof.

• 18+: allowed to participate in all construction activities.

What should I wear to volunteer? What should I bring with me?

Wear comfortable clothing which you don’t mind getting dirty—tennis shoes or other sturdy close-toed shoes, but NO sandals, flip-flops, Crocs, or Toms. In muddy/rainy conditions, it's best to bring an extra pair of shoes and a plastic bag.

If you have gloves or tools, bring them along. NO POWER TOOLS, PLEASE. Dallas Habitat requires that all volunteers on site wear hard hats. (We will provide enough hard hats for all volunteers.) Dallas Habitat for Humanity has first-aid kits located on the build site, but volunteers are responsible for bringing personal items (i.e. Epipen).

What if there's bad weather on the day I'm signed up to volunteer?

In case of inclement weather, you will receive an email notification and a text message if the build is canceled. The Wall Shop will not close due to rain but will close due to unsafe roads such as ice. Please ensure you are opted in to receive text messages. We only text about changes to your volunteer event. We do not solicit.

Interested in other ways to get involved with Carpenters?

We always welcome donations of meals, snacks, paper products, and more! Contact Karey Lewis, HPUMC Outreach Coordinator, at lewisk@hpumc.org for the specifics of what exactly is needed.