From Build Sites to ReStore: Find Your Place as a Volunteer

At Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity, volunteers are crucial to our work of increasing local families' access to the transformational power of homeownership. From high school and college students to Regular Volunteers and retirees, our big-hearted community supports our mission in many ways.

Lots of volunteers start on the construction site, but that's not the only way to get involved. Our ReStore Home Improvement Outlets need volunteers, too! Volunteering in this way continues your partnership with us and furthers your contribution to our mission. Staff at both ReStore locations in Minneapolis and New Brighton are happy to welcome dedicated volunteers. If you're not sure if working on a build site is right for you—or if you want to try something new—consider volunteering at ReStore.

What is ReStore?

Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity ReStores are home improvement outlets open to the public (imagine a cross between Goodwill and Home Depot). All sales support the mission and work of Twin Cities Habitat. As a nonprofit retailer, our inventory includes donated cabinets, appliances, furniture, windows, doors, lighting, tools, and much more, including a few brand-new items. ReStore is the perfect place for bargain-seekers and DIYers to shop and find great deals for everything from small projects to large home remodeling updates.

What does volunteering look like?

ReStore volunteers handle many responsibilities. You can help display items, receive donations, assist customers, cashier, and more. There's no such thing as a boring day! Volunteers serve in four-hour shifts Tuesdays through Saturdays (10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.).

If you discover you love volunteering at ReStore, be sure to ask a staff member about becoming a ReStore Regular. As a Regular, you'll have more opportunities to get involved. You'll also get access to our exclusive Regular Volunteer community and exciting benefits reserved for our most dedicated supporters.

We think volunteering at ReStore is worthwhile, but don't take just our word for it. When Sue retired from her accounting career in 2017, she wanted to find a positive way to spend her extra time. She enjoyed her first shift at ReStore so much that she became a Regular Volunteer and now has a weekly four-hour shift.

"All Twin Cities Habitat people are so nice and appreciative of everything you do," Sue said. "And everything you do gives back and helps these families. I'm always amazed by how many things come into ReStore. It shows how generous the community is about donating."

How do I get started?

If you'd like to volunteer at ReStore, signing up is simple:

1. Visit VolunteerHub
2. Decide if you want to volunteer in New Brighton or Minneapolis
3. Find a shift that works for your schedule
4. Click "Sign Up"

It's that easy. When you show up for your shift, head to the checkout counter to sign in. Next, one of our friendly ReStore staff members will give you your first assignment for the day. Then you'll be all set to volunteer!

For more information about volunteering, attend a volunteer orientation or email us at volunteer@tchabitat.org with any questions.

Note: We're grateful for volunteers of all ages! Anyone 18 years old and older is welcome to sign up for any volunteer role. High school and college students can also earn service learning hours. Youth at least 14 years old can volunteer at ReStore with an adult supervisor (21 years or older).