When a nonprofit or church plans a building project, they often have supporters or members who want to be part of it. How can you make the best use of your volunteers’ enthusiasm and skills?
NCI-Roberts has seen volunteer labor successfully incorporated into construction projects. We’ve also seen times when relying on volunteers has had unintended consequences. There can be real advantages to using volunteers, but it’s important to consider the potential impacts to your project — and risks to the volunteers themselves — before you start.
VOLUNTEERS ARE AWESOME!
Church and nonprofit organizations often already have a willing pool of volunteer helpers, and using volunteers can help save money.
Being part of an important building project can be rewarding for volunteers and gives volunteers a sense of accomplishment. “It makes them feel like part of the project for the rest of their lives,” says Jace Jontz, senior project manager for NCI-Roberts.
PROTECT YOUR ORGANIZATION — AND YOUR SUPPORTERS
“Any remodel project comes with some unknowns,” says Jace. Before a single volunteer swings a sledgehammer or climbs a ladder, consider these risks:
- Buildings can contain hazards not obvious until demolition starts.
- Construction professionals are trained to recognize dangers; volunteers may not be.
- Volunteers risk injuring themselves and others if materials are mishandled.
- Worst case: your organization could face legal action and penalties.
Construction work is inherently dangerous regardless of project type. Consider:
- Do you have appropriate tools, supplies and safety gear for everyone?
- Is someone with know-how available to provide training?
- Will there be an organized team leader?
- Schedule impacts — “It can be difficult to predict how long a volunteer group will take to do a task,” explains Jace.
- Cost impacts can occur if volunteers take longer than expected.
- Building codes, permits and required inspections might be more than volunteers can handle.
- Legal considerations — check with professional advisors about necessary waivers and forms.
- Insurance coverage — ensure you’re covered if accidents happen.
And if the reality of your project causes you to rethink having volunteers participate, you’re not the first. “Sometimes organizations look into having volunteers help out with the construction and then change their minds once they understand the risks,” Jace says.
EXAMPLES OF SUCCESS
If you decide not to include volunteers in the actual construction, “a building project often has many other tasks where volunteers might be able to help out,” says Jace.
Volunteers can contribute through:
- Decorating committees to decide on aesthetics
- Choosing paint colors, flooring, cabinetry and countertops
- Coordinating artwork, plants, and décor
- Assembling and arranging new furniture
“Landscaping often happens at the end of a project, so the schedule may not be as much of a concern,” says Jace. Some gardening tasks well-suited for volunteers:
- Spreading mulch
- Planting flowers
- Watering
One of the best ways for volunteers to help is by keeping enthusiasm high during the weeks or months of construction. “Counting down to occupancy and building excitement for the big reveal is a great way for volunteers to help,” says Jace. “Achieving the goal is a major milestone and something to celebrate!”
NCI-ROBERTS CAN HELP
NCI-Roberts Construction is committed to being stewards of the hard-earned resources of your church or nonprofit, and keeping your missions at the center of what we do. Learn more about NCI-Roberts’ philosophy and process, and contact us with any questions you have.