Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to some of our most frequently asked questions on what Habitat for Humanity does and how you can join us.
What is Will County Habitat for Humanity? What do you do?
Will County Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit working locally to build a Will County where every resident has a decent place to live. We take a geographically-focused approach to development, working alongside partners and residents to address the whole picture, concentrating investments into defined areas for maximum impact.
Why does your work matter?
Research shows housing is at the core of healthy, vibrant families & communities. Affordable, stable, decent housing improves school performance, decreases crime, and enhances the mental and physical health of children and adults.
Do you only build new homes?
No. Will County Habitat offers and supports an array of services designed to improve quality of life for residents of our focus neighborhoods. These include block beautification and pride projects, community action facilitation and support, homebuyer readiness training, homeowner support services, home weatherization projects, and more.
Are Habitat homes given away?
No. Will County Habitat homeowners purchase their homes with an affordable mortgage, invest at least 350 volunteer hours on the construction site building their and their neighbors’ homes, and enroll in homeownership preparation courses. To learn more, visit our affordable homeownership page
Why do you ask for a donation when our time is valuable as well?
We agree that volunteering is very important; however, we are a grass-roots organization that is responsible for raising all of our own funds. Many people believe that all of our materials are donated and that we receive our funding through Habitat for Humanity International and the government. This isn’t the case. The vast majority of our funding comes from the generosity of individuals and organizations within our local Will County community. Therefore, we ask volunteers to join fully in our efforts by becoming financial supporters of our mission.
Who controls and manages Will County Habitat for Humanity?
A local volunteer Board of Directors determines policy and oversees the mission of Will County Habitat. Day-to-day operations are managed by our Executive Director, who is hired by the Board of Directors.
Where else does Habitat for Humanity operate? What are Habitat for Humanity affiliates?
Habitat for Humanity operates worldwide in over 70 countries. Habitat for Humanity’s work is accomplished at the community level by local affiliates: independent, locally run, non-profit organizations.
What is the ReStore?
The ReStore is a nonprofit home improvement store and donation center that sells new and gently used home and building materials to the community at a fraction of the retail price. Profits from ReStore support Will County Habitat’s mission. To learn more, visit our ReStore page.
How can I volunteer?
Please visit our volunteer page.
How can I own a Habitat home?
First, it’s important to know that we do not give homes away for free. Each applicant agrees to partner with us, which includes providing required information and documentation, attending homeownership preparation courses, volunteering at least 350 hours with us, and purchasing your home with an affordable mortgage. Learn more about our Affordable Homeownership Program.
Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Email info@habitatwill.org or give us a call at (815) 726-1880.