Brock University students have a long history of working with non-profit organizations. Pictured is a group of volunteers who joined Brock’s Alternative Reading Week program to build a home in South Carolina with Habitat for Humanity.Brock University students looking to head south during Reading Week have an opportunity to help others while escaping Niagara’s chilly temperatures.
Each February, the University’s Alternative Reading Week program sends a group of students to assist with a Habitat for Humanity building project in Sumter, S.C. With this year’s trip just around the corner, there are still spaces left.
“We want to make sure students are aware that the opportunity to participate this year still exists,” said Kristen Smith, Brock’s Manager of Community Outreach Programs.
The trip costs $850 and includes all accommodation, transportation and meals for the week away.
For Smith, the ability to help out those in need during the weeklong break is something that sets the trip apart from a more traditional Reading Week experience.
“Each year, our students make valuable connections with members of the Sumter community and return with new perspectives as well as a greater awareness of how to build community going forward,” she said. “They learn so much in a week and form friendships based on completing a common goal.”
In addition to the Sumter trip, there is also an Alternative Reading Week trip heading to Peru that has already sold out. Opportunities also exist to contribute locally over reading week, and information will be posted on ExperienceBU.
The South Carolina trip will depart Saturday, Feb. 17 and return Sunday, Feb. 25.
Those interested in learning more should visit ExperienceBU or contact Kristen at x3845 or kristen.smith@brocku.ca
