Pictured: Lying Down: Alin Sigheartau. First Row Left to Right: Psychology Professor Luciane Periera-Pasarin, Christopher Zarzana, Kimberly Hayes. Second Row (Holding Banner) Left to Right: Sarah Kotter, Kristin Iannelli, Lia Canavan, Abigail Troeder, Jaclyn Mucciolo. Third Row - Left to Right: Rebecca Munoz, Ma'Isah Bohannan, Jaclyn Capalbo, Lauren Podkul. Fourth Row - Left to Right: Deacon Gregory Quinn, Young-Boon (Bosco) Kim, Jim Hayes, Russ Connell, Qadriyyah Brown, Ryan Gleason, Vincent Zelizo. |
Caldwell College Students Repair Homes, Change Lives in Appalachia
While some students left for sunny beaches on spring break, a group of students from Caldwell College loaded up and headed to rural eastern Kentucky to participate in WorkFest 2008, an alternative spring break sponsored by Christian Appalachian Project (CAP). More than 400 students from nearly 50 colleges and universities participated.
From March 24-29, the Caldwell College group replaced siding, repaired roofs and performed other household repairs in eastern Kentucky. Getting a hands-on experience of Appalachia and knowing lives were being changed was the true reward for the students.
Caldwell College student Qadriyyah Brown, a junior, said the best part of the trip for her was getting back in touch with her faith. "Through watching the actions of the family I worked with, and witnessing their strong faith with God, despite their struggles, (it) showed me that I too can have a strong bond with God here in New Jersey." The family she worked with in Kentucky showed her how important commitment to her own family is and how to not take others for granted while they are still here. "Going on this trip also showed me the value of friendship and how much of a key role friends play in my life. And now I know how to take a circular saw and saw wood like no other! " Brown said.
Caldwell College junior Ma'Isah Bohannan said she experienced humility and a feeling of accomplishment. "The best part was all the bonds that were formed in the group through something as simple as laughter and smiles." She was struck by all that can happen, "when people come together to give and not expect to receive anything in return." And it made her think about what can be accomplished when the same concept is used on an even larger scale.
"We were so lucky to have had such dedicated volunteers at WorkFest," said Kiara West, WorkFest Manager. "These students devoted their breaks to come to an unfamiliar region and repair homes of those who don't have the physical or financial means to do so on their own." CAP President Bill Mills was enthusiastic about the students. "These young people worked so hard," Mills said. "Caldwell College students thrived knowing they helped change lives of Appalachian residents in less than one week. How many people can say that?"
Jaclyn Capabalo, a senior, said the best part for her was helping a grandmother and seeing her smile when the handicap ramp was completed. "My own grandmother passed away when I was coming home from this trip and I am so grateful that I was able to help another grandmother just like mine." She will always cherish the experience of going to WorkFest. "I am even more grateful for my family and all that I have. I was able to help a family and make a difference in their lives," she said.