Greater Houston Long Term Recovery Committee
General Information
We hope this document will answer your questions about serving as a Hurricane Recovery Volunteer in Greater Houston.
The Greater Houston Long Term Recovery Committee is a coalition of church, service and volunteer agencies that provide emergency and disaster services for low-income families, seniors and disabled homeowners.
The Volunteer Management/Housing Subcommittee members include the following organizations: Volunteer Houston, Interfaith Ministries, United Way of Greater Houston, LINC Houston, Lutheran Social Services, United Methodist Church, Harris County Citizens Corps, Neighborhood Centers, Inc., and the City of Houston.
There are currently four agencies that are working on repair and rebuild projects in the Greater Houston area: LINC Houston (Lutheran Inner-City Network Coalition), United Methodist Church, CORE Alliance (Christians Organized for Relief Efforts), and Home Sweet Home.
Requirements
We welcome volunteers who are aged sixteen or over (with a signed parental release), who are in good health and have had a current tetanus shot (within the past 10 years – ideally within the past 5 years). Because the work is strenuous, we encourage checking with your family physician about any concerns, physical or medical conditions, especially respiratory problems, that may inhibit or prohibit your participation.
Volunteer Workload
The types of work volunteers can expect to be assigned range from:
· General clean up
· Insulation/Drywall installation
· Painting
· Roofing
· Electrical/Plumbing installation
· Flooring – primarily ceramic tile and laminate
· Cabinet installation
· Trim
· Carpentry & Framing
Once you have completed the registration process, you will receive a detailed packet of information from whichever agency you have been assigned. However, here is some information you should think about in advance.
Reservations are required in order to coordinate projects, housing, building supplies, etc. Please do not book travel, housing, or transportation arrangements until you have a confirmed reservation from the Volunteer Reception Center (VRC). To make a reservation, please call the VRC at 713-964-0299 or email ikevolunteer@volunteerhouston.org.
Housing
You are responsible for arranging accommodations for your group. After your work assignment has been confirmed, a list of available housing will be provided. There may or may not be a cost associated with the accommodations you arrange. Please be sure to confirm costs and payment options prior to arrival.
Transportation
Volunteer groups are responsible for their own transportation. Please keep in mind that depending on the size of your group, you may be split into smaller groups to work at multiple job sites. A vehicle with a tow hitch is especially helpful. Charter buses are not recommended as they make daily transportation of teams difficult. If your group decides to utilize a charter bus, please remember that some additional patience with logistics is appreciated. We cannot guarantee multiple work sites in close proximity. If you will be traveling by plane, it is especially important to confirm dates for your team prior to purchasing your tickets. There are several options for transportation rental located at the Houston airports.
Linens
You will need to provide your own bedding, pillows & towels. Because the weather will often swing quite a bit in the evenings, it would be advisable for volunteers to bring a sleeping bag or bedding that would keep them comfortable. Spring and summer in Houston can be hot and humid.
Food
Please check with your place of housing for information about food service at your particular location. You MAY be provided with meals and/or kitchen facilities. OR, your housing may be sleeping and showering facilities only. Houston boasts some excellent restaurants and you will find nearly every national cuisine available.
Clothing
Long pants such as jeans are recommended to keep legs covered to avoid cuts and scrapes. Shorts are appropriate at camp but not on the work site. Tee shirts are appropriate for daily work assignments. Layered clothing usually works best, especially during the fall and spring months when it can be cool in the early morning and evening, but become quite warm during the day. Closed toed shoes are required for all work sites.
Tools
Some tools and personal protective equipment are supplied at the camp. Professional plumbers, electricians, or carpenters may wish to bring their own tools; however, please make sure that they are properly labeled and secured.