Volunteers will work with Hope Builders staff on Vieques Puerto Rico to complete repairs to homes damaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in September, 2017. Work may include repairing and replacing roofs; fixing windows and doors; and other property repairs. Volunteers may also be involved in the complete rebuild of homes that were destroyed or cannot be repaired. Volunteers will be divided into crews, each overseen by a construction supervisor and a locally employed construction worker.

Team Size: This project is open to both teams and individuals. Each trip will have space for up to 12 volunteers. We offer long-term volunteer opportunities as well as short term with a minimum of 1 week. (Special circumstances can be discussed)

Skills Needed: Although we are in need of volunteers with a variety of skill levels we are seeking team members that have strong general construction knowledge and be comfortable using electric saws and drills. Team members may be asked to work on roofs of pitches up to a 5/12. Team members must be willing to follow all safety guidelines and instructions provided by Hope Builders staff.

Minimum Age: Volunteers must be at least 18 years old

Medical Considerations: Volunteers need to be up-to-date on routine immunizations including hepatitis A, hepatitis B, tetanus, rabies, and typhoid. Volunteers need to be in good physical shape and capable of participating in up to six days of back-to-back manual labor. Team members should be able to lift up to 55 pounds. Work conditions may involve extreme heat, humidity, dust, and debris. Volunteers should be comfortable with minimal conveniences, a diet with limited options, sleeping on cots, cold water bathing, and electricity interruptions. Living and working conditions may include mosquitoes and sand flies, along with dust and close proximity to wild and domestic animals that may exacerbate symptoms for people with allergies or certain medical conditions. Please go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention information page to view health information for travelers to Puerto Rico.

Additional information: Individual volunteers are welcome. Teams should be organized before contacting us in order to provide the number of team members and dates available on the volunteer registration. Volunteers need to bring linens, sleeping bag, pillow, towels and personal hygiene items. Tools will be provided but volunteers may bring their own tool belts, and small hand tools.