Involving Youth in Habitat's Work

Getting youth involved with Habitat at an early age is an investment in the future of the organization. The earlier people get involved with Habitat for Humanity, the more likely they will be to stay involved throughout their lives. This is one reason why Habitat is now focusing on involving all school-aged youth in its ministry.

Through Habitat, young people have the opportunity to put faith into action, work in partnership with a diverse group of people and make a positive difference in their own communities. Working with Habitat is one of the best opportunities young people can find for such experiences.

As we engage youth around the world, we respect and adhere to local child labor laws in the United States. In accordance with U.S. child labor laws, youth under the age of 16 are not allowed to work on a construction site.

What do building, leadership, social change and fun have in common?
Youth United!
It’s true! Youth United participants build a house. But they also run the project, raise the money to build the house, write news articles, speak to the press, make presentations to businesses, mentor younger youth and improve their community.

Extending Family Partnering: Tutoring and Mentoring Programs
Habitat's affiliate census shows that 62 percent of those who live in Habitat homes are children. To be effective in breaking the cycle of poverty housing, we must meet the needs of these young people, as well as those not yet a part of the Habitat family. Mentoring programs have proven effective in helping young people stay in school and develop the skills needed to become successful adults. The CCYP department is working with nationwide mentoring organizations to provide technical assistance and support to campus chapters and affiliates interested in mentoring programs.