Habitat for Humanity strives to help provide "simple, decent, affordable housing for all of God's people." The Altus Area Habitat Inc. has many different opportunities for volunteers. These are categorized in six functions: Business and Finance, Family Services, Land Acquisition, Construction, Fund Raising and Promotions.

The Business and Finance include volunteers who participate in: week day office help Monday through Friday, volunteer coordination to call volunteers, real estate attorney to purchase land and sell Habitat homes, accountant for bookkeeping and oversee mortgages, and banker to oversee insurance and financial decisions of the organization.

Family Services members help in family selection, family support members, and money mentors who help teach families how to improve their budgeting skills.

Land Acquisition includes volunteers who help acquire property for Habitat. They also enlist groups to help keep Habitat lots in "park-like condition". Real estate experience is desired, but not required.

Construction volunteers are the ones most people visualize when they hear the words Habitat for Humanity. They're the brains and muscles behind the hammers and saws. People who want to volunteer for a construction job need to call at least one week ahead of time to (580) 480-0041. Someone from Habitat will contact you on the next available project.

Construction volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Teens 16 and 17 years old may perform non-construction work on site such as painting. They must have parental permission to participate. Those under 18 must not use power tools, climb ladders, or work on the roof or scaffolding.

"Each Habitat volunteer must sign a Release of Liability form agreeing to take personal responsibility for any accidents or injuries on the job. Most individuals have a personal health insurance plan that covers them while engaged in volunteer work. However, you should verify your coverage prior to coming to the work site."

Fund Raising is done by a committee which meets the third Tuesday of the month from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to help with the monthly Habitat Community Luncheons. Volunteers (groups or individuals) are needed to help provide lunch for the workers during the Saturday build schedule. Volunteers are also needed to help organize and put on annual fund raising events: auction, run and golf tournament.

Promotions are handled by volunteers who present programs to area businesses, churches, and organizations about the habitat mission. They also set up and man information booths are area events.

To become involved in any of these areas, call Altus Habitat at (580) 480-0041, or email hfhaa@sbcglobal.net.