2011 Alternative Spring Break

ASB Trip to Appalachia

Every student looks forward to the week of spring break because it provides a much needed respite from classwork in the middle of the semester.  As an alternative to the more traditional spring break activities, the Newman Center plans a road trip with students to go to the Appalachian region of eastern Kentucky to participate in WorkFest, an event hosted hosted by a group called the Christian Appalachia Project.  Students arrive from different campuses, are divided up into work crews, and spend a week renovating the homes of some families in a very impoverished area of the nation.  It is a week not only of work with hammers, ladders, and roofwork, but also a time of teamwork, prayer, faith sharing, and lots of fun in a naturally beautiful area of the country.


Student Reflection: 

“The best part of WorkFest was helping families rebuild their houses.  The looks on their faces were so heart-warming because they were really thankful for the help that all of the workers provided.”

– Ulana

“I have met the most inspiring people in this program… The family I got to help was sooo nice and friendly and the crew got to eat amazing lunches everyday because Mrs. Mullens is the I-want-her-for-a-grandma type…  I will cherish all the memories here.”

– Yesenia

“This experience has been eye-opening.  To witness a lifestyle so drastically different from my own has put things into perspective.  Strive to change the world through even the smallest deeds: a smile, a wave, a quick chat, can make the biggest change in a person’s day.”

– Dustin

“I am thankful that God called me to CAP.  This experience has truly changed me for the better.  It has taught me to slow down and take time to value other people.”

– Magen

“I am probably the last person you would expect to be here picking up a hammer and nailing in siding on a house, but thank God I came…  I’m happy I am able to reflect on my life and appreciate the things I have more.”

– Abby

“I hope to make big changes in my life after such a great experience.  I thank the Newman Center and the Christian Appalachia Project for being able to do something like this.  Above all, I thank God for His wonderful grace and power that is everywhere in this world.”

– Paulino

“This trip has really refreshed my sense of what matters in this life.  It is my God and the people who remind me of His love.  These people here are so pure in faith and it so incredibly appealing and contagious.  The beauty I have witnessed this week I pray will stay fresh in my thoughts.”

– Taylor

“I had the opportunity to meet so many new people, and I learned so much about building homes.  I tried many things that were outside of my comfort zone, and I definitely experienced growth because of it.  I am so thankful for this experience!”

– Emma



 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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