Students take the lead in Habitat coalition

By Debbie Ehrman

National Volunteer Week, April 28-May 4, highlights the work done by volunteers. The increased role that students have taken in the newly formed Ohio University Student Coalition for Habitat for Humanity illustrates how important volunteerism is to the Ohio University experience.

Three years ago, the Ohio University Coalition -- composed of faculty, staff, administrators and students -- was formed to assist the work of Athens County Habitat for Humanity. This year, Ohio University students have taken charge of the group, creating the Ohio University Student Coalition.

"Our students are particularly qualified to manage and coordinate this endeavor," said Assistant to the President Nancy Crist, who has played a lead role in the campus coalition. "I've noticed a strong community service spirit among our students. They seem to carry this generosity into our community. We're fortunate to have these dedicated students interested in our Habitat efforts."

There are approximately 50 registered student volunteers, who organize everything from fundraisers and service projects to helping build houses with other Athens County coalitions. They have proven their ability to members of the other coalitions through their hard work and unique approach in managing the group. The students hope to have enough money raised to build a house within the next year.

Ohio University celebrates National Volunteer Week National Volunteer Week is April 27 to May 3, and Ohio University's Center for Community Service will be celebrating volunteers who contribute to the community with a weekend of service projects which were held April 26 and 27, as well as awards for outstanding community partners and volunteers that will be presented throughout the week. Merle Graybill, director of Ohio University's Center for Community Service, said, "It's important that our student body is willing to share its energy and good will with the community. In these times of budget cuts, it is more difficult for non-profit organizations to meet their goals. Student volunteers can make the difference." More than 4,000 Ohio University students volunteer each year to help accomplish the goals and meet the needs of their neighbors. These students serve through student organizations, Greek life, residence halls, work-study in the community and through Service Learning courses. "Not only do students gain the benefit of helping others, but it also is an opportunity for them to meet new people and gain practical career experience," said Liz Condo, a student service scholar at the Center for Community Service. "Volunteering has made me feel connected to the community."

Student coalition President Eli Mackiewicz said, "We students have been able to actually spearhead the coalition. It's exciting to see things coming together, and the excitement builds each step of the way, as we come closer to success. The most rewarding parts have been working with fellow students toward a common goal and meeting with members of the affiliate."

Students at Ohio University seem to be drawn to community service as illustrated by the approximately 4,000 students who contribute more than 205,000 hours of volunteer work in the area each year. Habitat for Humanity is one of several programs that give students a chance to give back to the community and meet people of various backgrounds while creating a positive experience for all involved. It is a great opportunity for students to learn life lessons and practical skills outside of the classroom.

There are many families in Athens County who work hard to provide for their families, but can only afford to live in substandard housing or are unable to pay the high-interest mortgage on a house. The families who are helped by Habitat do not get a free house, rather, Habitat arranges a 20-year interest-free mortgage for the family and all expenses incurred in the building process are charged to the family.

Debbie Ehrman is a student intern in University Communications and Marketing.