Supervisors On Site (SOS)
They come from all walks of life with an interest in working with people and a calling to help others. They are Supervisors on Site (SOS), a unique group of Nashville Area Habitat volunteers. These men and women are trained to build our houses and work with our volunteers and partner families. With the SOS’s help, each person has an enjoyable experience while building Nashville Area Habitat homes.
(Click headings below for more detail.)
What is an SOS?
SOSs are volunteers who have become familiar with Nashville Area Habitat by working on home builds. The SOS instructs other volunteers in the mechanics of a build.
Do I have to have construction experience to become an SOS?
Having an aptitude for building or carpentry is helpful but not required. It is generally required that SOSs have at least four weekends of experience as a volunteer on Nashville Area Habitat home builds. Habitat’s construction staff and other SOSs will train you in all facets of building a Habitat home from using power tools to installing doors to hanging siding. We focus on simplicity and safety.
What are the requirements to become an SOS?
If you enjoy working with people and have an ability to teach, then becoming an SOS may be the right choice for you. Our builds attract a diverse group of volunteers and future homeowners, all of whom have varying construction skills and a big heart for Habitat’s ministry. As you help coordinate on-site activities, you’ll teach our volunteers various tasks. Patience is a key virtue for an SOS. Your job is to make sure everyone is working safely and enjoying themselves. It is a good day when your team goes home tired and happy.
Will I have to supervise a home build by myself?
We typically have enough SOS team members to place at least two per house. Newer supervisors are paired with an SOS who has more experience working at Habitat sites.
How often do I have to be at the build site?
Each house is built over four consecutive weekends from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. You set your own schedule of which days you supervise, but we ask that you stay the entire day. SOS members make a minimum commitment of four weekends (eight days) over the course of a year’s time. The schedule is set up in advance and for your convenience. We recognize that your time and talents are a gift to Nashville Area Habitat. In turn, you will go home with a feeling of personal accomplishment.
Who is on the SOS team now?
We have college students, senior citizens and everyone in between. Despite their varied backgrounds, they come together for a common purpose – and that’s to give back to the community and help a family in need.
I’m interested – what do I do now?
We want to talk with you! Call us at 615-254-HOME (4663), or stop by our office at 2950 Kraft Drive.