Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Answers To Questions You May Have

Habitat FAQ

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Donation FAQs

How will my donation be used?

Your donation directly supports building safe, affordable homes and programs that empower families to achieve long-term stability.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Yes! We are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means your contribution is eligible for a charitable deduction on your federal income taxes. If you haven’t received a donation acknowledgement a month after your donation, please contact us at info@cvillehabitat.org. At the end of the year, gifts must be postmarked by December 31 to be eligible for charitable donations on income taxes.

Can I make a recurring donation?

Absolutely! Simply click Donate and choose Donate Monthly instead of Donate Once. You can change or cancel your monthly donation anytime. For tax purposes, we’ll send one year-end acknowledgment rather than monthly receipts. Need help? Reach out anytime at info@cvillehabitat.org.

Can I gift stock or appreciated securities?

Yes, please reach out to info@cvillehabitat.org for our brokerage account information.

Do you accept in-kind donations (furniture, building materials, vehicles, etc.)?

The Habitat Store accepts in-kind donations of building materials, furniture, and home décor items. We also welcome vehicle donations and provide deconstruction services, including cabinet, door, and window removal. Visit the Habitat Store section to learn more.

I have an issue or a question about my donation.

Please email us at info@cvillehabitat.org and we’re more than happy to assist!

Can I donate through the Neighbourhood Assistance Program (NAP)?

Yes! Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville is proud to take part in Virginia’s Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), which lets donors earn state tax credits for a portion of their gift. Since the number of available credits is limited each year, please reach out to us at info@cvillehabitat.org before donating to confirm availability. Please note that donations made through a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) are not eligible for NAP tax credits.

Can I donate through a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)?

Absolutely! With a Donor-Advised Fund, you can easily support the causes you care about. Simply contact your DAF administrator and recommend a gift to Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville. Once your donation arrives, we’ll send you an acknowledgment to confirm your generous contribution.

Estate Planning

Including “Greater Charlottesville Habitat for Humanity” in your will or estate plan is a meaningful way to leave a lasting impact. You can do this by naming us as a beneficiary in your will, trust, retirement account, or life insurance policy. We recommend consulting your attorney or financial advisor to ensure your gift is structured according to your wishes. If you’d like more information or sample language, please contact Kelly Eplee at keplee@cvillehabitat.org or 434-953-5249.

Can I donate through my Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) or IRA?

Yes! You can make a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) directly from your IRA to support Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville. Giving through your IRA can satisfy your required minimum distribution (RMD) and may reduce your taxable income. To get started, contact your IRA administrator and have the distribution sent directly to “Greater Charlottesville Habitat for Humanity” at 967 2nd St SE, Charlottesville VA 22902.

Construction Volunteer FAQs

Can I volunteer if I have no building experience?

Yes! You don’t need any prior construction skills. Our skilled crew leaders will show you how to do each task, and there’s meaningful work for every skill level—from painting and organizing materials to learning new building techniques. Volunteering is a great way to gain hands-on experience while helping your community.

What kind of work will I do on the build site?

Tasks vary day to day, so you might paint, install fixtures, hang drywall, or help build porches. We match volunteers to tasks based on interest and comfort level, and if something feels challenging, we’ll find a different way for you to contribute. Every role helps move the project forward!

How old do I need to be to volunteer?

All volunteers must be at least 16 years old to work on the build site. Volunteers under 18 are not permitted to use power tools.

Who will I be working with?

You’ll meet a variety of people on site! Volunteers often work alongside corporate, faith, or school groups, as well as future Habitat homeowners completing their sweat equity hours. Each build is led by our skilled Habitat construction staff who will guide and support you throughout the day.

How can I join Women Build or Faith Build?

Women Build and Faith Build are special seasonal projects that take place at specific times each year. To learn more or get involved, email us at volunteer@cvillehabitat.org. We’ll be happy to share upcoming opportunities!

What is the Midweek Crew and how do I join?

The Midweek Crew is a dedicated team of mostly retired or semi-retired volunteers who lend a hand on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. If you’d like to join this fun and hardworking group, send us an email at volunteer@cvillehabitat.org. We’d love to have you on site!

How do I get started volunteering on the build sites?

Create a volunteer account to view and sign up for available construction shifts. Once registered, you’ll receive all the details about what to expect and where to go—an on-site orientation is provided at the start of each shift.

Store Volunteer FAQs

What do volunteers do at the Habitat Store?

Volunteers help with everything from processing donations and assisting customers to repairing items, organizing displays, and supporting our deconstruction team. Every role keeps reusable materials out of landfills and helps fund affordable housing in our community.

How do I get started volunteering at the Habitat Store?

Individuals and groups (ages 12+) are welcome! Create an account to sign up for a Habitat Store Orientation—once you attend, you’ll be able to view and register for volunteer shifts that fit your schedule. Youth ages 12–13 must volunteer with a parent, guardian, or older sibling.