Habitat LA was joined by three different universities from around the country during the month of March. High Point University from Northern Carolina, University of Northern Iowa, and the University of California Irvine all participated in this year’s Collegiate Challenge program with us.
This year marks 26 years of Collegiate Challenge. Collegiate Challenge is an alternative way to spend spring break. Instead of going home to relax with friends, or going on a vacation for a week, students spend the week volunteering with Habitat for Humanity.
“Not only does Collegiate Challenge teach us things like teamwork, actual construction and things like that, but it teaches us how to be together as a group, work for better quality housing and love people here in our country and around the world, which is amazing,” said Hannah Garu, from High Point University, of her experience with Collegiate Challenge.
The students worked hard supporting affordable housing for local Los Angeles residents. They painted, installed windows and doors all while having a fun time doing it. The students from the colder parts of the United States were enjoying the warm 80 degree weather and all the students enjoyed spending time together while giving back.
“It’s a lot of fun, you learn a lot of things, and you see new culture all over the place. I’ve done it twice already and it’s been a really great experience both times,” said Nick Alvarado, a student at the University of Northern Iowa.