The Newark campus participates in the nationwide alternative spring break program coordinated by the Campus Chapters and Youth programs department of Habitat for Humanity International. Collegiate Challenge began as an alternative spring break program. It has expanded into a year-round program, with the major event spanning a seven-week period between February and April.
Student groups are placed with participating Habitat for Humanity affiliates depending on group requests and site availability. Host affiliate locations range from urban and rural settings, stage of construction and geographical location. Each site provides a unique experience of local culture and quality, hands-on construction. During Collegiate Challenge, construction on a work site varies from building trusses and framing houses, painting and finish work, to landscaping and renovating homes. On-site construction supervision is provided and no previous experience is necessary.
As part of the service program, students are challenged to raise a designated financial contribution for host affiliate. This contribution covers the costs of building materials well as accommodations during the week. Housing is provided by the host affiliate, and ranges from a church to volunteer centers. Facilities usually include kitchen space, a sleeping area and multiple wash rooms. Participants may be responsible for buying prepared meals.
Participation in the Collegiate Challenge is a great way to develop your leadership and teamwork skills. Pervious participants have remarked how powerful the week of service can be and the benefits of learning new skills, working hard and helping others.
For inquiries about the Newark campus participation in the next Collegiate Challenge season, contact the Office of Student Life, Warner Center 226, (740) 366-9171, or e-mail Melissa Jensen, Advisor for Habitat for Humanity Collegiate Challenge.
Last year, the Newark campus served the Fayetteville, N.C. Area Chapter during spring break. We worked on two homes in Fayetteville during the week and enjoyed a visit to Wilmington, N.C.