Habitat Team Leader Manual

Habitat for Humanity Oakland
Team Leader
Manual

Volunteer Team Leader Manual 2010
Finding what you want:
Welcome and thank you…………………………………………………………………………………….3-4
What you need to know about Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County……………...……………….……..5
How we fund our projects………………………………………………………………………………...…..6
Who’s in charge of what at Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County……………………………….……... ..7
Project Management…………………………………………………………………………………….......8
How to lead your project……………………………………………………………………………………...8
Before your project………………...…………………………………………………………….…....8
Don’t leave home without……………...………………..……………………………………………8
During your project……………..………………………..…………………………………………...8
Volunteer orientation……………………………………..………………………..…………………8
After your project service………………………………..…………………...……………………......9
How to communicate with volunteers……………………………………………………………………... …10
How to recruit volunteers……………………………………………………………………………………. 11
How to troubleshoot the unexpected…………………………...………………………………………. …12
Using the office phone (248-338-1843 ext. 224 or ext. 226)………………………………………………........ 12
Emergencies or injuries at your project……………………………………………………………………….. 13
You can’t lead your project…………………………………………………………………………….……... 13
Media arrive at your project…………………………………………………………………………………... 13
Bad weather………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 13
Project location is locked…………………………………………………………………………………….. 13
No supplies are provided…………………………………………………………………………………….. 13
No volunteers are present……………………………………………………………………………………..13
Project is different than what was described…………………………………………………………………...13
Project is finished early
Volunteer Management………………………………………………………………………………… 14-15
Process to become a Team Leader……………………………………………………………………..16
Team Leader Standards………………………………….………………………………………….……. 17
How to grow as a Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County leader: The leadership community………...... 18
How to become a Habitat Team Leader………………………………………………………………........19
Job Description & Teams………………………………………………………………………………20
Habitat Oakland Team Leader Descriptions & Qualifications…………………………………...………...21
Frequently Asked Questions……………………………………………………………………………....22-24
Thank You
150 Osmun Street • Pontiac, Michigan 48342 • 248 .338 .1843 • www.habitatoakland.org Page 2

Welcome
Habitat Team Leaders!

Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County Leaders Make It Happen!
Dear Team Leaders,
Thanks for joining the Habitat Oakland County leader team. As a leader, you motivate and lead others
to create positive change in our community. You serve as a representative for Habitat Oakland County
and are responsible for providing instruction, motivation and troubleshooting for your project. In short,
you are crucial to your project’s success, and we couldn’t do it without you.
This Team Leader Manual is intended to provide you with many of the tools you need to lead a
successful volunteer team and/or project. Of course, the Habitat Oakland County staff is here to help
you through it all!
We could not engage thousands in service every year without you. You are now a part of our leader
community. We look forward to working with you!
Our sincere thanks,
The Volunteer Department
Alesha Allen, Dana Gibson and Marnese Jackson on behalf of Executive Director Sally LePla and our
entire staff, board and families.

What you need to know about Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County:
As an ambassador for Habitat Oakland County, you may get asked questions about the organization.
Here are a few quick facts to help you. Remember, you can always refer people to
www.habitatoakland.org for more information.
Short Speech:
Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County builds housing to eliminate poverty housing and
homelessness from Oakland County and around the world.
We work in partnership with God and of all faiths and races to develop communities for people in need
by building and renovating housing creating homeownership opportunities and, in collaboration with
others, transforming lives and neighborhoods. We encourage individuals to get involved with our
construction projects, ReStore, volunteer teams and other event-related projects. We inspire people to
give of their time and energy, creating a real sense of community and shared responsibility.
Today, our initiatives focus on Family Engagement, Volunteering, Youth Mentoring, Family
Recruitment and Mentorship, Financial Peace University Financial Instructor and most importantly
Home Ownership.
History and Stats:
 Since 1976, millions of Habitat for Humanity volunteers has built more than 300,000 homes
for over 1 million people around the world.
 Habitat for Humanity came to Oakland County, Michigan in 1994 and has since provided
housing for more than 100 families.
 In Oakland County, that makes Habitat for Humanity homes almost 50 percent more
affordable to low-income families.

You play a crucial role for your Volunteer Team and project. No matter what, you have to keep a
positive attitude to achieve high volunteer engagement and a successful project.
How we fund our projects:
Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization.
Donors and Sponsors- Donors and sponsors provide the financial and material resources necessary to
accomplish Habitat’s mission. Donors and sponsors are also important sources of volunteers for Habitat for
Humanity’s construction and family programs. For every home it builds in Oakland County, Habitat donates
more than about 4,000 to build a home, rehab or repair.
Building on Faith- Each year, almost a hundred congregations from dozens of denominations and faiths share
financial resources, volunteers, and spiritual guidance to build homes and hope in Oakland County.
Business Builds Hopes- Each year, our corporate sponsors of different businesses share financial resources,
volunteers to assure planning and execution of all logistics for August Business Builds Hope.
Youth Programs- Each school year, hundreds of Oakland County students, ages 5 to 25, raise funds and recruit
volunteers provide affordable housing though Habitat Oakland County.
Habitat
Voice:
Througho
ut this
guide,
you’ll see
sections
highlighte
d as
Habitat
Voice.
These are
tips
provided
by long-
time
Habitat
for
Humanity
of
Oakland
County
leaders.
We hope
you
benefit

ReStore- Habitat’s ReStore accepts donations of new or gently-used building materials, furniture, and home
improvement merchandise for sale to builders, contractors, and the general public. Sales help support Habitat
mission. The Pontiac Restore is locate at 150 Osmun Street and is open Tuesday-Saturday, 9a.m.-5p.
Who’s in charge of
what at Habitat for
Humanity of
Oakland County?
The success of Habitat’s
mission relies on coordinated
commitment from many staff
and volunteer leaders. As a
leader, you’ll be in regular
contact with a few different
people. These are the
individuals who will work
directly with Team Leaders.
Board of Directors: Our board of
directors determines policy and
stewards operations. Board
members are dedicated volunteers
Did you
know…?
In 2008, .
83 cents of
every
dollar
Habitat
for
Humanity
receives
applies
directly to
family
services
and home
constructi
on.

who are deeply concerned about the problems of poverty housing in our community. The 2010 Board of Directors is led by Board
President Phil Pierce.
Executive Director: Sally LePla is the Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Oakland and oversees all affiliate operations (248)
338-1843 ext. 223 or via email at director@habitatoakland.org
Volunteer Department: If you are interested in volunteering for construction, landscaping, restore, volunteer leader and or teams,
internship opportunities, please contact Volunteer Liaison Alesha Allen (248) 338-1843 ext. 226 Volunteer@habitatoakland.org or
Volunteer Recruiter Marnese Jackson at (248) 338-1843 ext. 224, mjackson@habitatoakland.org. The Volunteer Department advises all Teams as
the “Volunteer Advisory Board.” Alesha is the Newsletter Staff Liaison and is the Site Host Staff and Promotions & Publicity Staff.
Director of Partnerships: In partnership with the Director of Grants, Brad Irwin in partnership raises sufficient amounts through
fundraising as determined by the Board of Directors to fund the needs of the organization in order that simple, decent housing can be built
with Partner Families. Brad is the Staff Liaison for the following Teams: Third- Party Fundraising, Food & Beverage Donation, Groundbreakings, Building
on Faith Sunday, World’s Biggest House Party, Deals & Denim, Building on Faith Blitz, Business Builds Hope and Speakers’ Bureau. Please contact Brad at
(248) 338-1843 ext. 222 or via email at btirwin@habitatoakland.org.
Director of Grants and Individual Giving: In partnership with the Director of Partnerships Brenda Asselin obtains grants, funds, and
sponsorships as well as Blitz individual donations for Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County affiliate. Brenda Asselin is the Staff Liaison to
the Grant Writing & Research Team. For any questions or concerns, please contact Brenda at (248) 338-1843 ext. 227 or via email
development@habitatoakland.org
Youth Manager: Youth United is mentored by Youth Manager Dana Gibson. She advises youth in Oakland County between the ages of
5 - 25 to on projects for Habitat’s mission. Dana is the Staff Liaison for the Youth Engagement Team. Contact Dana at (248) 338-1843 ext. 301 or
via email at dgibson@habitatoakland.org
Construction Department: The Construction Department is led by Construction Director, Scott Gronevelt and Construction Manager
Debbie. In which they plan, coordinates, and trains volunteers in building and rehabbing houses. Scott is the Staff Liaison for the Technology,
Building & Grounds and Construction Teams. Debbie is the Staff Liaison for the Landscaping, House & Crew Leadership, Green Building, Construction
Leadership Training and Warranty Teams. Contact Scott at (248) 338-1843 ext. 228 or at constructiondir@habitatoakland.org or Debbie at (248) 338-1843
ext. 229 or via email constructionmgr@habitatoakland.org
ReStore: The ReStore is lead by ReStore Director Steve Yakush, ReStore Manager Michael King and ReStore Cashier Flo Turnispseed.
Along with volunteers, they lead the Habitat’s ReStore, which provides new and slightly used furniture, fixtures, and building materials at a
greatly reduced cost to the general public. Michael is the Staff Liaison for the Showroom Organization, Pick Up & Delivery and Pricing Teams. Flo is
the Cashier Team Staff Liaison and Volunteer Mitzi Briggs is the Liaison for the Warehouse Assistance. Contact the ReStore at (248) 338-1843 ext. 235 or
Michael at (248) 338-1843 ext. 238 or via email at restoremgr@habitatoakland.org
Director of Family Services: In this position, Kimberly Donnelly oversees family recruitment, family partnering, and on-going family
education. Kimberly Donnelly is the Staff Liaison for the Family Selection and Partner Family Engagement Teams. Contact Kimberly at (248) 338-1843
ext. 225 or at email families@habitatoakland.org
Director of Finance: Jane Mager leads the accounting and financial operations of the Habitat Oakland County affiliate. Contact Jane at
(248) 338-1843 ext. 232 or via email at accountant@habitatoakland.org
Office Assistant: Helps to keep the office in order i.e. organizing materials, filing documents, and answering the phones. Ricca Escamilla
is the Staff Liaison for the Office Maintenance Team. For more information, please contact Ricca at (248) 338-1843 ext. 232.
It’s important to remember a few things:
Your Habitat Oakland County staff member will…
 Determine the structure and purpose of programs
 Schedule dates, times and locations of the programs
 Serve as the primary contacts for volunteer departments
 Cancels or reschedules projects
 Promotes projects and recruits new volunteers
How to lead your Volunteer team and/ or project:
Congratulations! You are a team leader. With that, comes some responsibility. Remember –
Habitat Oakland County is here to help you!

Before your Volunteer meeting or project:
 Confirm your contact information is correct in the Habitat Oakland County calendar on our website
 Respond to volunteer calls and e-mails within 48 hours [see sample e-mails page 10]
 Prepare any materials for the project. Remember to use the tax exempt letter, stick to your budget
 Save your receipts for reimbursement
 If necessary, recruit volunteers [see page 12 for recruitment tips]
 Send a reminder e-mail to volunteers about the project (remember to blind copy!)
 Plan projects or sat up planning meetings
During Your Project:
 Arrive 15 minutes early
 Ensure building is open and supplies are available
 As volunteers arrive, have them sign in on the waiver form (no person may volunteer at Habitat with out
a newly signed waiver each calendar year.
 Provide each volunteer and volunteer with a nametag
 Welcome and introduce the project partner representative and have each volunteer introduce
themselves
 Create volunteers up for success by doing a brief project orientation using the following guidelines:
o Provide project goals and logistics. Exactly what the group will do, timeline and what to
expect. Remember to point out the restrooms!
o Let volunteers know you are accessible and to come to you right away with any problems,
concerns, questions, etc.
o Provide your contact information, collect theirs and send out to the team after the meeting.
o Share rules and set expectations. For example, volunteers shouldn’t take a child to the
bathroom alone.
o Explain the value volunteers bring to the project.
o Provide information about the agency, business, church or school or have the project partner
representative
speak for a few minutes.
o Make any Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County announcements such as an upcoming day of
service, volunteer
o recognition event or leadership needs
o Let volunteers know you will be gathering at the end of the project for a debrief
 When appropriate, rotate tasks among volunteers
 Ensure new volunteers feel comfortable – encourage interaction between new and returning
volunteers
Don’t Leave Home Without:
 Habitat Oakland County evaluation and sign in sheet (don’t forget a pen!)
 Habitat Oakland County without nametags
 Your Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County clothing – Team Leader t-shirt, hat, etc.
 Project supplies, as necessary
 Directions to your project
 Don’t forget to have all waivers sign and parents/guardian sign Youth Permission Waiver forms
 Your list of volunteers and their phone numbers
How to lead your project:
After The Project:

 Submit your project evaluation within 48 hours. This can be sent via fax (248-338-1316) or by
 mail to 150 Osmun Street, Pontiac, Michigan 48342 The evaluation is important because it:
o Gives credit to volunteers for their project participation
o Allows us to track volunteer retention rates and trends
o Helps with our fundraising and reporting activities
o Helps recruit volunteers and leaders for your project – we can see who attends frequently
 Thank the volunteers.
 Follow up with volunteers who didn’t attend the project
 Contact your Habitat for Humanity Oakland County staff member if necessary
 Submit your expenses:
o Remember to follow supply guidelines for your project and stay within budget.
o You must use a tax exempt letter and submit your receipts
o Note that Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County can’t reimburse for purchases made through
governmental programs such as food stamps. Visit with your staff member who can provide you
with funds or alternatives for purchasing program supplies.
o If you choose to consider your project supply purchase a donation to Habitat for Humanity of
Oakland County, we still want to know about it! We track this information towards our
donations and use this in our year-end reporting.

How to communicate with volunteers:
Confirmation e-mail: send when a volunteer first signs up for a project
Be sure to include:
 The fact that they are signing up for a Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County project.
 Date and start and finish times.
 Project address.
 Goal of project, any activity details, and volunteer expectations.
 Volunteer department overview and education.
 Transportation information.
o Directions.
Habitat
Voice: Make
sure to get
the best
phone
numbers and
email
addresses for
your
volunteers
when they
sign up. That
way you can
reach them if
there are any
last minute
changes.
Also, ask
them if we
may use text
messaging as
a way to
communicate.

o Public transportation options.
 Team Leader phone number for contact on the day of the project.
 Thank you E-mail – send 1-2 days after the project (or you can send in the green Habitat for
Humanity Oakland County.
 Follow up E-mail – send 1-2 days after the project to anyone who does not show up and
does not contact you
How to recruit team members:
You may occasionally need to recruit team members for your project. We give you lots of ways to make
it easy to fill your project.
Recruitment Tool What is it When to notify Who to notify
Special Events Our most popular recruitment
tool is advertising on our
Volunteer Now management
and Facebook. An-email sent to
all volunteers every Monday
listing that week’s most urgent
needs. Also is available on our
Within a 1-2 weeks of the event,
project or meeting
Your Habitat Oakland County
Volunteer Department

website for sign up.
Habitat Database We keep records of all our
volunteers ad are able to pull
recruitment lists of people who
attended our volunteer
opportunities, builds and events
in the past.
Within a week of your event if
you realize you need more
volunteers
Your Habitat Oakland County
Existing Volunteers Remember to keep a record of
volunteers who attend your project,
meetings and to invite them back.
The best way to fill your project is
by running a good one. Volunteers
love to return to well-managed
projects.
Immediately after your project
or event in your thank you e-
mail and as soon as you realize
you need more volunteers
Your Habitat Volunteer
Oakland County Department or
your existing list
How to troubleshoot the unexpected:
On-Call Emergency Office Phone: (248) 338-1843 ext. 224 or ext. 226
 Call 911 immediately to seek medical help. Do not attempt to treat an injury.
 Immediately call the On Call Emergency Cell Phone for further instruction.
 Don’t leave the project site until someone arrives to assist you. Use your best judgment in
determining if the remaining volunteers should stay at the project site.
 Send another volunteer with the person in the ambulance or to the hospital. Find out what hospital

the volunteer will go to so Habitat Oakland County can send a representative there.
 Keep other volunteers calm.
 Once the situation is under control, make a written account of the incident. Use the accident/injury
report included in your folder.
 Do not speak to the media. Contact the Emergency On if media would like a
statement.
 Do not speculate to anyone on whose fault the accident was.
You can’t lead your project:
You know in advance you can’t lead a future date:
 Contact the backup leader or other leaders for your project. If they are unavailable, contact other
leaders in your issue area.
 Contact the Habitat Oakland County staff member and alert them of the situation, so they can
change the contact information online.
 Ask the Habitat Oakland County staff member to help find someone to cover for you.
You have an emergency and can’t lead your project the next day or the day of:
 Contact the on call Emergency Cell phone the office phone to work with the Habitat Oakland
County Oakland County staff member on finding a replacement. He or she will help you:
 Review your list of volunteers for the project to determine if a regular volunteer can fill in.
 Contact a back up leader to help.
 Contact leaders who lead a similar project.
Media Arrive at Your Project:
 Contact the Habitat Volunteer Office – the staff person may provide you with talking points
Serve as a Habitat Oakland County ambassador sharing information to the best of your ability about
Habitat Oakland County your project
 Record the name of the media and ask for the date the story will run and contact the Volunteer
office with this information
 If someone is uncomfortable being photographed or filmed, please ask the media to avoid taking
photos of that volunteer.
Note: It is rare media would arrive at your site unannounced. We usually are made aware of this
before they attend a project.
There is bad weather:
 Call the Volunteer department and a staff member will determine if the project should continue.
 If the project is cancelled by Habitat staff must call all volunteers to ensure they are aware of the
cancellation.
 Habitat for Humanity Oakland County Staff will contact the volunteer department to cancel the
project.

 If severe weather is in the forecast, please contact your Habitat Oakland County staff member a few
days in advance to discuss project alternatives.
 You – as a leader – will never cancel a project. Projects can only be cancelled by Habitat for
Humanity of Oakland County Staff.
The project location is locked/inaccessible:
 Apologize to the volunteers and explain this situation isn’t normal.
 Call Habitat office a staff member will help you determine next steps.
 If the staff member can’t reach the volunteer department , wait 15 minutes and then dismiss the
volunteer.
 If you learn the site will open more than 30 minutes after the project start time, give volunteers the
option of staying to complete the project or leaving. Complete work as appropriate and time allows.
There are no supplies provided/supplies provided by the volunteer department aren’t at the
site:
 Determine the goal of the project (e.g., fitness activity for kids, meal on the table, etc.) and decide if
there are other supplies available to meet the goal.
 Ask the volunteer department or team leader if there is a store nearby where you can purchase the
supplies (to be reimbursed by Habitat Oakland County).
 Call the Volunteer Department to discuss alternatives.
 Don’t let the volunteers see you nervous or unsure of what to do.
 Have the volunteers complete an activity or conversation game with the volunteers while you
determine next steps.
 Inform your Habitat Oakland County staff member immediately to ensure this doesn’t happen again.
There are no volunteers present and there should be:
 Ask the volunteer department if they can find some people to participate.
 Ask the volunteer department if there are other tasks the volunteers can do such as organizing a
reading area.
 If there are no other tasks or volunteers, dismiss the volunteers and apologize to them.
 Inform your Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County staff rep so they can ensure this doesn’t
happen again.
The project is different than what was described:
 Work with the volunteer department to ensure that work needs to be done is a priority.
 Explain the situation when the volunteers arrive, sharing the benefit of the new assignment.
 Do your best to complete the new project, motivating and trouble-shooting throughout the session.
The task or activity is finished early:
 Come prepared with a second activity, conversation topic or activity that can be done if there is extra
time at the end of the project.
 Ask the volunteer department rep if there are other tasks that can be completed.
 If work is finished and there are no other tasks, dismiss the volunteers early.
How to manage volunteers:
There are lots of different types of volunteers at Habitat Oakland County projects. You should be prepared to
motivate everyone.

Every volunteer:
• Remember, this is a volunteer event.
• Don’t be afraid to get sappy if it will motivate volunteers – talk about how excited the kids get when
they see the volunteers, the community member who commented on the garden your volunteers created, etc.
• Be positive at all times.
• Be flexible and keep your volunteers informed of any changes that need to occur during the project.
• The Uncooperative or Know-It-All Volunteer
• Involve this volunteer in healthy competitions.
• Try the “you may know this already, but I still want to show the group to make sure everyone is on
the same page” approach.
• Offer specific positive reinforcement about something that’s being done really well, e.g., preparing
the sausage for a breakfast program, sorting clothing donations, etc.
• If appropriate, consider giving this volunteer more leadership, e.g., asking him or her to help hand
out supplies, etc.
The Lazy or Coerced Volunteer
• Ask the volunteer department to share some stories about why the work matters.
• Reassign the volunteer to a task working alongside you. This will allow you to engage and motivate
the person.
• Pair the person up with an energetic volunteer.
The Youth Volunteer
• Be calm and patient, but firm and specific.
• Rely on parents or a group representative to help with discipline problems.
• Reassign the youth to a more appropriate task, if necessary.
A few more tips:
• Help volunteers feel comfortable with the people they are working with or the task they are working on
o by providing clear directions and doing introductions to volunteers beforehand.
• Make sure volunteers are doing the correct tasks the correct way.
• Identify natural leaders among the volunteers and use them as a resource.
• Check in with volunteers frequently.
• Watch the volunteers for signs of exhaustion or frustration.
• Gauge the progress of volunteers throughout the project.
• Assign a volunteer to help with supplies.
• If someone finishes early, ask him or her to help with other tasks or assist in clean up.

• Always remind volunteers how they fit into the big picture – e.g., they aren’t just helping prevent
substandard housing, they are helping solve the homelessness crisis and education/mentorship on
homeownership
How to manage volunteers:
Too Few Volunteers:
• Prioritize and decide what work can be completed.
• Never rush the volunteers or make them feel like there aren’t enough of them – keep the focus
on doing high-quality work you can complete.
• Always emphasize the work that is done, not the work that isn’t.
Too Many Volunteers:
• Divide extra volunteers among all the tasks.
• Ask the volunteer department if there is any extra work that can be completed.
Unhappy Volunteers:
• Consider assigning an unhappy volunteer to a different task.
• If someone is tired, bored or uncooperative, ask them to take a break or if there is another task
they would like to complete.
• If volunteers feel the work isn’t meaningful, let them know the Habitat affiliate has a mission to
service the homeowners.
or agency and is meaningful. Have the volunteer team leader and or volunteer department
reinforce this to the volunteer.
Unhappy Team Leaders:
• If the school or agency has a complaint or concern, assure them that Habitat Oakland County
will try to work it out with them. Remind the volunteers that you are a volunteer as well and any
issues should be taken up with Habitat Oakland County.
• If the site rep is negative or insulting toward volunteers, try to separate them from the volunteer
completely.
Habitat
Voice:
The
majority of
volunteers
want to be
there.
They need
your
direction
for what
to do and
when to
do it.
Asking if
you can
help them
with
something
gets tasks
done.

Process to become a Team Leader

Team Leader Standards:
As a Leader, you are the face of Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County at projects and in the
community. We rely on you to represent the organization in a professional manner. The
following standards were approved by your leader peers on the Habitat for Humanity of
Advisory Board. We continually assess these standards throughout your leadership commitment.
• All leaders must complete recruitment, screening and leadership training
• All leaders currently in the field who haven’t completed training must do so at the next available
session or they will be suspended.
• All leaders must be re-certified every 2 years (applies only to ongoing program Team
Coordinators)
• To maintain status as a Team Leader, the leader must lead 80% of assigned dates.
• To maintain status as a co-Team Leader, a leader must lead 60% of assigned dates.
• To maintain status as a Back Up Team Leader, a leader must lead or co-lead at least two of
• Leaders must fulfill all aspects of their role including:
o Take volunteer sign ups and recruit as needed.
o Confirm with volunteers within 48 hours of receiving interest from a volunteer and send
reminder e-mail within 24 hours before the project.
o Organize transportation for projects with a carpool.
o Create or utilize existing curriculum, activities or menus.
o Be responsive to Habitat Oakland County staff.
o Complete project evaluations and return them to the office within a week of the project
date.
o Participate in an annual program meeting and evaluation.
o Work with other leaders to strengthen the program.
• If a leader doesn’t comply with the above (individually or as a whole), he or she will be reminded

of our standards, placed on probation and an action plan will be created to replace the leader.
• A leader who cancels a program date on his or her own will be placed on probation. In a second
instance the leader will be dismissed.
How to Grow as a Leader with Habitat Oakland County:
Lead
1. A celebration of service
2. Serve- a-thon
3. Youth build
4. Look for new leadership projects
5. Innovate a new program for Habitat
Learn
1. Participate or lead one of our monthly Team Leader training/orientation workshops
2. Research Habitat’s various websites, calendars, newsletters on volunteer updates
3. Leader-re-certification-after 2 years of being a Team Leader
Share
1. Be a mentor to new leaders
2. Let a new or interested leader shadow you at your project
3. Assist at a training for new leaders
4. Join a Advisory board sponsored thru Habitat Oakland County
5. Help other leaders develop activities, menus, and lessons

6. Encourage others to become a Habitat Team Leader
Celebrate
1. Leader and volunteer social events
2. Recognition at special events
3. Annual volunteer appreciation and Star Awards event-held in the fall
How to become a Habitat Leader?
Welcome to the Habitat Oakland County Leadership Community! There are many ways for you to share
your knowledge and leadership, as well as expand your skills. Contact our leadership development staff
at 248-338-1843 ext. 224 to learn more about any of these opportunities:
1. Sign-Up with the Volunteer Department:
a. If you are interested in a Team leader position, please be able to commit to
the time from of 6 months to 1 year or for the length of time necessary on
an event.
The short list: words to
the wise leader
Do team up – get to know
other leaders for your
Volunteer team and or
project
Do communicate with
your Habitat for Oakland
County staff member
Do plan to make an
impact with your project
Do use your resources
including your fellow
leaders, special leader
trainings, and Habitat of
Oakland County staff
Do complete paperwork
and turn it in on time so
the rest of Habitat can
fully support you

Marnese
Jackson
Alesha
Allen
Dana Gibson
Volunteer
Coordinator
Volunteer
Liaison
Youth Manager
(248) 338-1843
ext. 224
(248) 338-1843
ext. 226
(248)
338-1843 ext.
301
(248) 338-
1316-Fax
(248) 338-
1316-Fax
b. If you are interested in a Team leader position, please email or fax your
resume to Marnese Jackson at the contact information listed below.
c. If you would like to become a member of a team, please email or call
Marnese Jackson at the contact listed below.
2. Specify what team you would like to join and what position you would like to
hold, i.e., Team Leader, Co-Leader, and Team Member.
3. If you are interested in Internships, your Team leader position can be your
internship. The Volunteer Department would have to obtain a copy of your
driver’s license, internship paperwork, and resume for our files.
For more information, please contact the Volunteer Department at:
Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County
150 Osmun Street, Pontiac, Michigan 48342 or below:

(248) 338-
1316-Fax
mjackson@habitatoakland.org
Volunteer@habitatoakland.org
dgibson@habitatoakland.org
Tea
Job Description & Teams
Thanks
again for
joining the
Habitat
Oakland
County
Team
leader
community
and
making the
commitme
nt to
improve
Oakland
County
communiti
es!

Habitat Oakland-Team Leader Volunteer Description
Team Leaders embody the heart and mission of Habitat for Humanity of
Oakland County of Michigan Affiliate Operations-Related, Event-Related,
ReStore-Related and Construction-Related projects. Each Habitat Oakland
project must have a Team Leader/Co-Leader who volunteers on behalf of
Habitat Oakland County, enabling us to offer over 100 volunteer projects
every month located on Construction sites in the Oakland County area and
the Habitat Affiliate. This special group of people consists of volunteers
who make a commitment to help manage a special project for a few hours
each week or month (depending on the month) with approximately 6
months or of planning. Team Leaders work closely with Habitat Volunteer
Department, the Habitat affiliate staff, and with Habitat Partner families to
lead effective hands-on volunteer projects.
Title: Habitat Team Leader
Position reports: The Volunteer Department
Types of Team Leader positions: Listed to the right
Project meetings: Every team leader will orientate and train at our monthly
volunteer-orientation. The meeting varies depending on specific projects
and planning. Most event planning teams meet once monthly based on what
the Volunteer Leader and Team agree
Goal of Project: Varies depending on specific project, but meet the specific
needs of Habitat Oakland County at the time.
Length of volunteer position: Six months to 1 year, flexibly schedule
projects. (Non-paid Internships and Academic Service Learning are
acceptable with proper paperwork.)
Time requirement of position: Lead projects on a monthly basis,
consistently return reports to Volunteer Department and Staff Liaison,
attend planning sessions with Habitat Oakland County and Project Partners-
Building Blitz and Fundraisers as needed.
Requirements for position: Should have experience in the Team Leader
position i.e., Construction related team position should have some
experience in construction and has volunteered with Habitat construction
department. In addition, you have skills in Leadership, Scheduling, Positive
Attitude, Great Human Relations Skills and Organizational Skills, Problem
Solving and good Communication Skills.
Skill requirements for position: Active Habitat Oakland County volunteer
with interest in volunteerism should have confidence in his/her ability to
lead groups and to teach others. Demonstrated ability to problem-solve and
work with teams, demonstrating strong leadership skills.
Habitat Oakland Volunteer Teams
Event-Related
Third Party Fundraising
Food & Beverage Donations
Home Dedications
Groundbreakings
Building on Faith Sunday
Promotions & Publicity
World’s Biggest House Party
Deals & Denim
Building on Faith Blitz
Business Builds Hope Blitz
Affiliate Operations-Related
Building & Grounds
Family Selection
Speakers’ Bureau
Partner Family Engagement
Youth Engagement
Grant Writing & Research
Office Maintenance
Newsletter
Technology
Construction-Related
Landscaping
Site Host
House & Crew Leadership
Green Building
Construction
Construction Leadership Training
Warranty
ReStore-Related
Cashier
Pricing
Showroom Organization
Warehouse Assistance
Pick Up & Delivery

Frequently Asked Questions

Habitat for Humanity Team Leaders
What is a Team Leader? Team Leaders are volunteers who make a commitment to help manage a
volunteer project for a few hours each week or month (depending on the project). Each Habitat
Oakland County project must have a Team Leader who volunteers on behalf of Habitat Oakland
County to offer support to our Habitat Affiliate-Operations related, Construction-Related, ReStore-
related, and Event-related projects.
What does a Team Leader do? Team Leaders serve as the primary contact for each project. They help
sign-up, manage, schedule, set goals and objective, execute logistics, event plan, build relationships,
attend to the project to ensure everything goes smoothly, report attendance, and provide project
feedback to Habitat Oakland County following the conclusion of the project.
How much time does it take to be a Team Leader? Team Leaders generally spend about 2-3 hours
before each project preparing for the event, and few minutes after each event to submit volunteer
attendance, evaluations and clean-up. On the day of the event, Team Leaders show up 15-20 minutes
early to greet volunteers and team members, ensure that everyone is ready for the event, answer any
questions during event, and thank and debrief volunteers and members at the end.
What kind of commitment do I need to make as a Team Leader? This will vary according to the
type of project you lead. Some projects may require a weekly or bi-weekly commitment of anywhere
from a few weeks to an entire year; others might be a one-time special event or once per month
commitment for 6-12 months.
What qualifications do I need to become a Team Leader? Anybody can be a great Team Leader,
You just need to be accessible by email or phone, be committed to making a difference, and be
comfortable leading a group of diverse team members or volunteers. We typically require Team Leaders
to have volunteered on 2 or more Habitat projects or have experience leading individuals. We can also
arrange for you to shadow an existing Team Leader.
What are the benefits of being a Team Leader? Team Leaders truly make a difference in our Habitat
Oakland County community, as Habitat Oakland County’s Calendar Projects simply could not take
place without them. By becoming a Team Leader, you join a group of Habitat Oakland’s County finest
leadership volunteers. Being a Team Leader is also a terrific opportunity to work with great people,
develop leadership, strengthen job applications, enhance your career, or simply to put your gift you use.
What support will I get from Habitat Oakland County? Before you begin leading a project, you will
complete comprehensive one to two-hour training on a Saturday. Once you begin leading your project,
Habitat Oakland County’s Volunteer Department and the Staff Liaisons will assist you with specific
details, and the goals, objectives and needs of the Team will provide ongoing support through regular
written and verbal correspondence, as well as occasional visits to your projects. Additionally, Habitat
Oakland County hosts several workshops, networking events and trainings throughout the year to
support you.

Habitat for Humanity Team Leaders
How do Team Leaders get matched up with Teams and Projects? Team Leader vacancies are comprised of
either existing projects, where the current Team Leader is no longer able to commit to the project, or new
projects that are waiting to be added to the Team. During your one-on-one informal interview, we will discuss
your skills, interest and availability to find a suitable project or team. Sometimes a project will be available right
away; on other occasions, it may take more time. While we try to match new Team leaders to projects that fit their
interest and availability as best as we can, we also ask people to be flexible and enthusiastic about filling in where
we have the greatest need.
I’m interested. What are the next steps?
Habitat Oakland County is committed to providing the highest quality of service to our volunteers and the people
we serve. Since Team Leaders play such a vital role in this process, Habitat Oakland County has a comprehensive
process for recruiting and training Team Leaders. This ensure that all Habitat Oakland County Team Leaders are
equipped with the knowledge and expertise they need to ensure a positive experience for themselves, the
volunteers they will be managing, and most importantly, the community being served.
If you want to be a Team Leader you can forward me your resume or answer the questions below and
forward them back via email or fax me them at the contact information listed below. Please answer the
following questions:
1. Do you have leadership, event planning, human relations skills?
2. Do you have skills in the specific team you want to lead?
3. Can you dedicate 6 months to 1 year to the Team Leader position?
4. Would you like use the team leader position as a possible internship position? If so, can you provide
a resume, participate in an interview and provided internship documentation?
5. Are you able to participate in training to learn more about the team leader position?
If you are interested in being a Volunteer Team you may sign up directly me at mjackson@habitatoakland.org
However, if you are interested in serving in one of the other many volunteer areas, please contact me directly
at (248) 338-1843 ext. 224. We will match your desires to the best of our ability.
Marnese Jackson
Volunteer Coordinator
Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County
150 Osmun Street, Pontiac, Michigan 48342
248-338-1843 ext. 224-Office
248-420-7609-Mobile
248-338-1361-Fax
mjackson@habitatoakland.org
Thank you for you’re interested in becoming a Habitat for Humanity Oakland County Team Leader!

Thank You!

Habitat Team Leader Manual

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