Partner Family Advocates partner with Habitat families as they transition to their new role as a homeowner.  Advocates work directly with one family during the homeownership process (usually 12-18 months).

For any of us, moving into a new home can be filled with anxiety.  Even simple things like meeting the next-door neighbors can be unnerving, even more so signing a mortgage and receiving the keys to a new home.

An advocate’s task is to help make the entire homeownership process (sweat equity, construction, closing, assumption of responsibilities) one that builds the confidence of the partner family.

Your role as an advocate is not to be the enforcer of the Habitat policies, but rather to establish a close working friendship with the family and to be sensitive to their needs.

A balance between giving needed assistance and establishing independence is a primary goal of the advocate with the family.

 What are the qualities of a good advocate?

• A good listener and relationship-builder
• Willingness and flexibility

What are my responsibilities as an advocate?

• Attend a Mentor orientation class
• Engage at least monthly with your family (can be at the Habitat office or another location)
• Build a rapport with the family you have been assigned
•  Guide the family to explore ways to address needs
• Encourage the family to reach out to appropriate community resources
• Encourage the family to attend all mandatory education classes provided by Habitat
• Attend the home dedication

Who do I contact to become a Partner Family Advocate?

If you are interested in volunteering as a Partner Family Advocate, click the Volunteer button above and a volunteer coordinator will be in contact with you soon. If you have any additional questions, contact us at volunteer@munciehabitat.org.