Widener University: Building Hope, One Hammer Swing at a Time
In the typical narrative of Spring Break, images of sun-kissed beaches and vibrant parties often take center stage. However, for a group of compassionate college students from Widener University in Philadelphia, Spring Break 2017 held a different allure. More than 30 students opted to forgo the traditional revelry in favor of a more meaningful endeavor – volunteering with Habitat For Humanity in Pickens County, South Carolina.
The decision to spend their break constructing homes for those in need speaks volumes about the character and values of these young individuals. Instead of lounging by the shore, they chose to pick up tools and get their hands dirty, all in the name of lending a helping hand to those less fortunate.
The initiative, part of Habitat For Humanity’s Alternative Spring Break program, brought these students to Pickens County to embark on a journey of service and selflessness. Over the span of two weeks, they dedicated themselves to building houses in Liberty, Pickens, and Easley, areas where the impact of their efforts would be deeply felt.
For many of these students, wielding hammers and saws was a novel experience. Yet, despite their lack of prior expertise, they approached the task with unwavering enthusiasm and determination. Each day brought new challenges and opportunities for growth as they worked tirelessly to bring these homes to life.
Reflecting on her decision to participate, Sarah Wright, one of the student volunteers, shared, “I just couldn’t think of something I’d rather do during my Spring Break than giving back to people so I’ve been doing this for 3 years now. All of my college Spring Breaks have been all across the country working for Habitat For Humanity. I like giving back, especially to people who are really deserving of it, and I think Habitat has a good way of choosing those people who actually are working towards bettering their life.”
Similarly, Elizabeth Bean emphasized the profound impact of their actions on both the community and the homeowners. “I really think it’s really important to give back to the community and seeing the impact it has on the community and the homeowners is really an amazing, rewarding experience,” she expressed.
Despite their altruistic endeavors, these students also found time to savor the sights and experiences that the Upstate had to offer. Exploring the charms of Greenville and catching a Clemson game added a touch of leisure to their otherwise industrious break.
Their story serves as a poignant reminder that Spring Break can be about more than just leisure and indulgence. It’s a time ripe with opportunities to make a difference, to extend a helping hand, and to forge connections with communities beyond our own. These Widener University students exemplify the spirit of service and compassion, reminding us all of the profound impact that acts of kindness can have on the world around us.
As they return to their studies and routines, may their memories of this Spring Break endure as a testament to the power of selflessness and the boundless potential for positive change when we choose to act with purpose and empathy.
Sources:
- https://youtu.be/nwdjEGolrMA?si=EZmkIayQcYBj74ef
- https://www.wspa.com/news/college-students-spend-spring-break-building-houses-in-pickens-co/
- https://www.widener.edu/news/news-archive/life-changing-spring-break
- https://chat.openai.com/
- https://readloud.net/
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