Faith Build Initiative
Bringing people together for a shared purpose, combining faith, service, and community.
About the Faith Build Initiative
In May 2026, we launched our new Faith Build initiative, which engages religious organizations of all faiths to help address Central Florida’s housing crisis. Faith Build brings people together through a shared purpose, combining faith, service, and community commitment to make a meaningful impact through stable, affordable housing.
We proudly launched the initiative alongside First Presbyterian Church of Orlando. A member of the church, Walter Pharr, played a role in helping to establish Habitat Orlando & Osceola 40 years ago, and today, the church’s Senior Pastor, Dr. David Swanson, continues that connection through his service on Habitat Orlando & Osceola’s Board of Directors. Both organizations are marking meaningful milestones this year – 150 years for First Pres and 40 years for Habitat Orlando & Osceola – making this partnership a special moment to reflect on their shared commitment to serving Central Florida.
Twenty members of the church congregation joined us on the build site to install siding to kick off the initiative. We were also joined by Habitat homeowner and local pastor Richard, who shared his testimony on the impact of the work being done.
“We’re honored to work alongside Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County to expand access to affordable housing in our community. Meaningful progress and lasting trust are built only through sustained, consistent service within a single community. This build is one more powerful sign of that commitment.”
—Rev. Dr. David Swanson, senior pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Orlando
“Faith Build is a powerful way for us to come together in service and community.“It reflects the heart of who we are and invites people of all beliefs to be part of creating lasting change in our housing system.”
—Catherine Steck McManus, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County
Join Us for a Faith Build
Want to learn more about how you and your team can making a lasting impact on families in Central Florida? We’d love to talk with you about joining us for a Faith Build.
Build Day Schedule
Here’s an example of what a day on the build site would look like for your team.
Faith Build in the News
Volunteer FAQ
When can I volunteer?
Contact our Volunteer Department to schedule your group's sponsored build day (sponsorships start at $5,000). Sponsoring your Team Build helps us continue our mission to provide Central Floridians secure, affordable homes.
Where can I volunteer?
Our build site days will take place at homes in our current developments in the Holden Heights and Parramore neighborhoods of Orlando. We occasionally host volunteers in our warehouse and in our office located in Orlando.
We also partner with organizations in Orange and Osceola County for opportunities beyond the build site volunteer days.
Are there any age requirements to volunteer?
Yes. All volunteers must be at least 16 years old, no exceptions. Some tasks have an 18+ policy. Task restrictions for 16 & 17-year-old volunteers:
- Cannot work on ladders
- Cannot use power tools
Only individuals age 16 or older are allowed on the build site, no exceptions.
Is construction experience needed in order to volunteer?
No, not at all! Previous experience never hurts, but it isn’t necessary. All construction sites have a site supervisor that will provide all of the on-the-job training needed for the day’s tasks.
Read more about volunteer expectations here.
What kinds of tasks are done by volunteers?
Construction volunteers typically help with one or more of the following job tasks: framing walls, installing siding, hanging drywall, caulking, priming, painting, landscaping, and so much more. Tasks may change due to the ever-evolving nature of the construction schedule. You will receive onsite training for all tasks.
Will there be water and food provided?
Water and snacks will be provided on-site. Volunteers are encouraged to bring a refillable water bottle to reduce waste and ensure proper hydration.
Are construction shifts rain or shine?
Unless you hear otherwise from a Habitat Orlando & Osceola staff member, plan to volunteer rain or shine. Site supervisors can often adjust tasks to accommodate for inclement weather.
Do I need to bring tools with me?
All necessary tools and safety gear will be provided by Habitat Orlando & Osceola. If preferred, you may bring your own. Please label all personal tools with your name.
Can I complete my Court-Ordered community service with Habitat Orlando & Osceola?
At this time, we are no longer approving court-ordered community service.
What is expected from a Habitat Orlando & Osceola volunteer?
Habitat Orlando & Osceola works hard to create an environment that supports the diversity of all people. Habitat Orlando & Osceola recognizes that people work best when they know what is expected of them and, in turn, Habitat Orlando & Osceola expects volunteers to conduct themselves in a way that will protect the interests and safety of all Habitat staff, partner families, and volunteers.
Read more of our Volunteer Expectations.