Frequently Asked Questions

If you have additional questions about our program, e-mail us at:   handsonleaders@gmail.com. We'll reply to your email and post frequently asked questions and answers on this page.

Is this a paid position?

Hands On New Orleans provides Volunteer Leaders with lodging, food, and laundry facilities.  It is not currently a paid position.

I understand that the regular fee for volunteers to stay at the Hands On New Orleans housing is $20.00 per day. Do Volunteer Leaders pay that also?

No, Volunteer Leaders are EXEMPT from paying the daily fee. 

Can I get an outside job?

It is Hands On policy that Volunteer Leaders are allowed to get jobs as long as it doesn't interfere with their immediate duties to our organization. In the past, our Leaders have taken on part-time jobs with mixed results. The work that we do is tiring and we suggest that time off be used for self-care.

How busy will I be?

You will be working five days a week from 8 a.m. until approximately 4 p.m. There may be occasional evening and weekend projects that you will want to take part in as well.

What is the target demographic for this program?

One of the best things about this program is the fact that it is a great fit for so many different kinds of people. We are looking for folks with a variety of backgrounds. This program is works well for anyone with lots of construction experience who wants to maximize his/her impact on the recovery effort in the Gulf Coast. It is also a great opportunity for people who don't have a lot of experience with service who want to develop their leadership skills while giving back to an extraordinary community. We would also love to see applicants who want more non-profit experience. Basically anyone who is self-motivated and excited about serving the residents of New Orleans is urged to apply.

Will there be support for Volunteer Leaders from the Hands On staff?

There is a staff person whose primary role is coordinating this program, supporting leaders with training, and giving feedback on their progress. While we want Volunteer Leaders to feel supported, we also want to encourage you to realize your full potential as a leader.

The resident volunteer program seems to target non-locals. I'm from New Orleans and interested in this program, but I can't commit 40 hours per week. Is there something similar for locals?

Absolutely. We are currently developing a complete volunteer leadership program for New Orleans residents that will likely consist of commitments to Saturdays and some evenings. If you are interested, please contact us at handsonleaders@gmail.com and we will keep you up-to-date with recruitment events and service days.

I'm interested in the program, but I have an alternative living space. Can I still be in the program if I live off site?

You are more than welcome to live off-site, however you are responsible for your own transportation to and from base.

Can I bring a car to stay at your facility?

There is on-street parking available in the area of our volunteer housing site. You may be put on our auto insurance so that you can drive Hands On vehicles. These vehicles are for work use only and not to be driven for personal use or after work hours. There are resources to obtain affordable bicycles in the city and there is an operational bus system available for leaders who do not have their own cars.

Is there a personal code of conduct after work hours?

Our leaders are asked to serve as an example for all of our volunteers. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed on facility grounds. There is no curfew enforced, but there are quiet hours and lights out. Volunteers who do not adhere to basic house rules after being informed of the rules will be asked to leave.

I have a previous commitment that makes me unavailable for a portion of the program. Am I still allowed to apply?

If you have a commitment that cuts into the beginning weeks of the program or the last few days at the end, please contact us with the details and we will make decisions on a case by case basis. Leaders will be responsible for their own travel costs to and from New Orleans.