How do I get started?

Step 1:  Explore our web site. Then register online by clicking “ Register” at the bottom of our homepage. Although you can browse through any part of our web site without registering, you will need to register online in order to sign up for orientations, attend projects and take full advantage of our web site’s features.

Step 2:  When you register online, you will receive an email asking you to activate your account. Just click on the activation link in the email to continue.

What are the advantages of registering with Hands On Houston?
Our goal is to successfully connect volunteers to the nonprofit agencies that need them most. Once you register, you will have access to a number of valuable tools and resources in the Member Center, enabling you to find the volunteer opportunity that's right for you:

·         Quickly and easily sign up for projects that need your time, skills and talents (project details, including directions, are emailed to you immediately)

·         You will receive a reminder email before the project start date

·         You can easily remove yourself from projects you are no longer able to attend

·         You can view your volunteer history or view and modify your personal information including contact information, skills and interests

What do I do if I’ve forgotten my password?
Just go to the Member Center and enter your email address under the “Forget Your Password?” section of the screen. Then click “Email My Password Now” and a new password will be sent to you automatically.

How do I change my password or email address?
If you would like to change your password or email address, you can do this at any time by logging in to the Member Center and selecting “Personal Information” and “Email and Password.” Once you have made your changes, be sure to click “Update Information” or your changes will not be saved.

Why don't I receive system-generated emails (i.e., password request, registration or project confirmation)?
The spam filter on your email account may automatically route emails sent from Hands On Houston to your junk or bulk mail folder or even delete them. Please configure your email account to allow you to receive messages from us.

Volunteer Opportunities

What kinds of projects does Hands On Houston have to offer?
We offer or provide referrals to thousands of volunteer opportunities around Houston, ranging from one-time special events to those requiring a more significant commitment. We work with nonprofit agencies in the Houston area and our opportunities span causes related to adults, children & teens, arts & culture, animals, the environment, families and seniors. There really is something for everyone. 

We have hundreds of volunteer jobs available right at your fingertips. This online database equips you with a resource to aid you in becoming involved in the community and is the first step in finding the right volunteer position.

Search our project calendar for an agency that matches your areas of interest,  needs people with your special skills and has a location and schedule that work for you. You may even find more than one!

 
What is a Project Leader?
Each project has a person who is responsible for managing the project. In most cases Project Leaders are volunteers who take the extra step and help make our programs possible. Project Leaders may also be representatives from the nonprofit organization hosting the event.

Who should I contact if I have questions about a project?
The Project Leader should be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. When you sign up, you will receive an automatic email with the Project Leader’s contact information.

May I bring other people with me to a project?
Ideally each volunteer would register on our web site with his or her own email address. Since this is not always possible, you can also choose one of the following options:

·     Create a team and register your entire team.

·                            Sign yourself up. If additional volunteer spots are available, call or email the project leader and provide the names and ages of the people you wish to bring. Provided they meet the age requirements and space is available, the project leader will ensure that a space is reserved for them at the project.

How do I remove myself from a project I don't wish to or cannot attend?
Login to the Member Center. Click on "My Projects" and then "Remove Me" from any projects you are unable to attend. Please do this as early as possible so that your volunteer slot becomes available for someone else to fill.

I'm having problems signing up for projects.
Please make sure that you have registered and logged in. Once you have logged in, select your project and click Sign Me Up. If the Sign Me Up button does not appear, you may see one of these messages on the screen instead:

·                            You must enter a date of birth – As some of our projects have age restrictions, you must enter your date of birth before you are allowed to sign up for projects. Login to the Member Center, under “Personal Information” update your date of birth and any other required fields marked with an orange asterisk. Be sure to click “Update Information” to save your changes.
 

·                            Age restrictions – If you do not meet the minimum age requirement for the project, you will not be able to sign up.