DesignBuildBLUFF

VOLUNTEERS

Frequently asked questions

Q. What kind of volunteer does DesignBuildBLUFF look for?

A. DesignBuildBLUFF welcomes volunteers for fundraisers and events. Please contact us, if you are interested in being a volunteer. We also welcome people who like to let us use your private house or commercial spaces to take place in the fundraiser or events.

Q. How can I be a volunteer?

A. Please register our newsletter to check the recent fundraisers or events. Then contact us for the details when you see the fundraiser or event will take place.

Q. Can I participate in the design and build program as a student?

A. Yes. We appreciate one or two volunteers to build a house with students.

Q. Where is the Bluff Campus Located?

A. The Campus is about 325 miles from Salt Lake City; 98 miles from Moab, Utah; 215 miles from Flagstaff, Arizona; 440 miles from Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Campus is less than a tenth of a mile south of Twin Peaks Café and the “Welcome To Bluff” turnoff.

Q. How Do I Get To Bluff?

A. The closest international airport to Bluff is Salt Lake City Intl’, 325 miles to the northeast. There is a civil airstrip in Bluff and Blanding, Utah for private and chartered flights. If driving, please inquire about carpooling options.

Q. What Will The Weather Be Like?

A. In winter the average lows are in the mid-twenties, with an average high of about 45F, it often snows. In summer, the average low is in the mid-sixties and the average high is about 95F. Monthly precipitation is under an inch. It is often windy, and it’s always desert-dry. Spring and Fall deliver the most pleasant weather conditions, with highs in the 70's and lows in the 40's

Q. What Are Meals Like?

A. We invite volunteers to join students for a communal dinner on Saturday evening after the workday. Breakfast and lunches need to be provided for separately, kitchen facilities and refrigeration are available on campus. Bluff is home to a few seasonally open restaurants. We suggest bringing provisions for all other meals.

Q. What Supplies Should I Bring?

A. In the winter and fall, dress warmly with multiple layers. Bluff is breezy at all times of the year; please consider windbreakers and other appropriate outerwear.

In summer and spring, prepare for warmer temperatures, and plenty of sunshine.

Bring a large water bottle, snacks, food for the weekend, sunglasses, wide brimmed hat or cap, sunscreen, sturdy hiking or work boots and work gloves.

DBB will provide hardhats.

Q. What Type of Projects Will I Be Doing?

A. Whether it is sifting sands for building an earthen wall or doing light plastering, we’ll make it fun for all involved. We also welcome construction professionals who can lend an extra set of hands and eyes and are able to help on more advanced projects. The specifics of the projects are determined by the progress of the semester. Prior to arriving in Bluff, we will provide you with specific project details.

Q. What Activities Are Near The Campus?

A. Archeological ruins and stunning desert hikes surround Bluff: Monument Valley, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Hovenweep National Monument, Natural Bridges National Monument, Ute Mountain Tribal Park and countless others are within a short drive. In the summer months, biking and rafting the San Juan River are favorite activities.

There are guided hikes available to Anasazi Ruins. More information about surrounding recreational activities can be found on www.bluffutah.org

Q. Is There Internet, Phone and Fax Service On Campus?

A. Yes, we have a DSL connection with a wireless network. If you need to videoconference we can accommodate you. We also have a Fax/Copier/Printer.

Both AT&T and Verizon phones can make and receive calls on the campus without a problem, however data access may be slow. Cell service on the building sites is spotty at best.

Q. May I Bring My Dog?

A. There are several dogs that already call our Campus home, bring your dog only if it is well behaved and gets along with other animals, isn't prone to excessive barking (the county has introduced a new barking ordinance). Dog owners will assume liability for any damage or injury brought on by any altercation or incident involving a visiting dog.

Q. Where Can I Stay?

A. Visitors are welcome to use the campsites on Campus and use our bathhouse facilities. Bluff hosts a modest range of inns, motels, and hotels within walking distance.

Please visit www.bluffutah.org for a detailed list.

Q. May I Bring My Family?

A. Absolutely. However, be prepared to take care of smaller children. The Campus is rustic, also the campus and work site related tools and supplies can be dangerous; supervision of children, at all times, is required.

Q. What Facilities Are Available on Campus?

A. There is a Bathhouse on campus with shower stalls and bathrooms, as well as a full kitchen with refrigerators and freezers. These facilities are used primarily by the students-in-residence, but are made available for shared-use by visitors.