FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

Habitat for Humanity is a global non-profit organization that builds housing for low-income families. Volunteers offering their time and donations from local individuals and organizations make Habitat’s mission possible.

Greater Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity is a local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity that serves the Albuquerque area. There are other such affiliates all over the world and more can be learned on Habitat for Humanity International’s website.

We share a name and a vision with Habitat for Humanity International, but we are an independent corporation governed by a local board of directors. We raise all our own money locally and it stays local.

The only government program GAHH participates in is the NM Finance Authority’s Tax Credit program for new construction. This program provides donors with a 50% state tax credit on the value of their gift of $1,000 or more.

We are currently building two to three homes per year but expect that to expand to five per year within the next year or two.

Homeowner Services

No, Habitat for Humanity provides a zero-interest mortgage for which our partner families invest what we call “sweat-equity” by completing Homeowner Maintenance Education courses, working on their homes, and working on the homes of other homeowners. Once a homeowner receives the keys to his/her home, he/she must make on-time monthly payments toward their interest-free mortgage.

Potential applicants are required to meet qualifications to become a homeowner. All applications submitted during the open application period will be reviewed. The top scored, qualified families will be presented to the board for approval for the next homes to be built.

Typically, families close on and move into their homes 18 months after their initial application is submitted. However, because our program relies on sponsors to fund houses, and community volunteers to help construct them, this time is variable. On the other hand, this period allows applicants to plan for their move, complete the sweat equity hours required by our program, and participate fully in the construction on their own homes.

Volunteering

We encourage volunteers with little to no experience. If a volunteer does have specific skills, we are thrilled to have them join us, as well.

Yes, you can volunteer on a preservation repair site, in our ReStore, on one of our committees (Faith Relations or Events), as a phone bank caller or as a member of our Board of Directors.

The sooner the better. Because we have a limited number of Home Constructions a year, we have an exceedingly high demand for volunteers and construction dates do get booked quickly, especially our weekend days.

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Donating to our Mission

Donors have the option to designate their contribution for widespread use or for construction. Donations designated for construction of homes are then restricted 100% for that purpose. We typically have state tax credits available for donations of $1,000. When applicable, the credit is equal to 50% of the donated amount.

Yes, we accept gifts of cash, stocks, life insurance, IRA’s, etc. Your gift will increase the organization’s sustainability.

ReStore

We have a list of items that we accept and do not accept available here. If it is not clear whether an item is accepted, feel free to call us at (505) 265-0057

We offer pick-up services for bulky items, for three or more large items. Donors should call (505) 265-0057 ext. 103 for scheduling or fill-out our online Donation Pick-up Request Form. Dispatch scheduling agent will contact you to set-up a time and date for the pick-up.

Vehicle donations are done through Cars for Homes, a program offered through Habitat for Humanity International. Proceeds from your car sale will stay local in Albuquerque. Go to https://habitat.org for more information.