FAQs
- Q: What is Thrivent Builds Repairs?
- A: Thrivent Builds Repairs is a program of Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity. It is a financial, volunteer and advocacy partnership between Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and Habitat for Humanity International. Through the Repairs program, Thrivent Financial members and other volunteers partner with local Habitat affiliates around the country to complete simple one- or two-day projects to improve existing owner-occupied homes.
- Q: Why was the Thrivent Builds Repairs program developed?
- A: Building new homes is one solution to the problems of substandard and poverty housing. But there are also existing homes across the country that simply need basic exterior improvements.
By offering the repairs program, Thrivent Financial members and other volunteers have the opportunity to be involved with improving homes in existing neighborhoods. Thrivent Builds Repairs also makes access to meaningful volunteer activities available to more people:- The skill level needed to do repairs, like painting and caulking windows, is appealing to a broader group of people.
- A one- or two-day time commitment makes scheduling a repairs project easy for busy volunteers.
- Q: What types of repairs are included in the program?
- A: A Thrivent Builds Repairs project can be light external construction, such as repairing a porch or steps, cleaning up the yard, exterior painting, and weatherization, such as window caulking. Construction of a wheelchair ramp is also a possible project. The end result is that neighborhoods are improved, and homeowners are allowed to stay in their homes more comfortably and safely.
- Q: Who can participate in a Thrivent Builds Repairs project?
- A: In conjunction with local Habitat affiliates, projects are organized by Thrivent Financial chapters or congregations. Thrivent members, congregation members and other interested volunteers are all invited to participate. Local affiliates should be consulted for their guidelines on age restrictions.
- Q: How much money is provided for each Thrivent Builds Repairs project?
- A: Each project is eligible for a $2,500 grant from Thrivent Financial through the Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity program.
- Q: Is there a fundraising component to Thrivent Builds Repairs?
- A: No additional fundraising is needed to participate in a Thrivent Builds Repairs project. However, if a volunteer group would like raise funds to help support their local Habitat affiliate, they may do so at their discretion and according to their affiliate's guidelines.
- Q: How are homes selected for the Thrivent Builds Repairs program?
- A: Homes receiving a Thrivent Builds Repairs grant are identified for preservation by local Habitat affiliates that are engaged with community revitalization projects in their areas, or affiliates that have expanded the housing solutions they offer to include repairs projects. Projects must meet certain criteria, including a family's need and willingness to partner. Please contact your local Habitat affiliate to find out if they are accepting repairs projects in your area.
- Q: How can I find out about opportunities to volunteer on a Thrivent Builds Repairs project in my area?
- A: Talk with your Thrivent Financial representative or your local Community Engagement Team member.
- Q: Do I have to be a Thrivent member to participate in a Thrivent Builds Repairs project?
- A: No. Anyone may participate in a Thrivent Builds Repairs project.