Over 40 students are becoming involved in the new up and coming Habitat for Humanity Chapter on Seton Hill University’s (SHU) campus. The students, joined by alumni, faculty and staff on SHU’s campus, are being led by the Director of Campus Ministry, Cynthia Boland.
“There are many exciting possibilities with having the chapter on campus. But it’s much more involved than just saying we want to be a Habitat Chapter. Habitat needs to know we are serious and that the students are committed,” said Boland.
By Chelsea Oliver,
Contributor
Over 40 students are becoming involved in the new up and coming Habitat for Humanity Chapter on Seton Hill University’s (SHU) campus. The students, joined by alumni, faculty and staff on SHU’s campus, are being led by the Director of Campus Ministry, Cynthia Boland.
“There are many exciting possibilities with having the chapter on campus. But it’s much more involved than just saying we want to be a Habitat Chapter. Habitat needs to know we are serious and that the students are committed,” said Boland.
And the students that are currently participating in the growth to become a full chapter are showing that needed commitment.
As of now students are selling SHU Homecoming t-shirts to start to raise money for the chapter, and are making plans to sell pumpkins in the upcoming weeks to help the Westmoreland Habitat Chapter, of which they are affiliates.
Though students may join other clubs on campus for various reasons, many join Habitat for one reason – to help others.
“I wanted to help others in need. It is a great feeling knowing that you gave some of your time and effort to someone who is less fortunate,” said Sean Garrity, a senior.
“It’s for a good cause,” said Rachel Berthold, a sophomore.
“It’s nice to help out with such a great project,” said Ashley Hunt, a sophomore.
Though the SHU chapter is not a fully recognized chapter as of yet, they are taking the right steps to achieve their goal of doing so.
“Right now we have to focus on four things; planning, funding, advocacy, and education,” said Boland.
“We have to keep making regular meetings and do more fundraisers, such as the t-shirt and pumpkin sale, and we have to get the word out there about us,” Boland added.
At their last meeting, those involved with the Habitat chapter have started to get their hands dirty by meeting with Leyla Pilon, the executive director of the Westmoreland County Habitat for Humanity chapter; they have started to make plans about cleaning and fixing up a local church basement as their first project.
Also, the group plans on taking their annual spring break trip, and to plan more working events with the Westmoreland and Pittsburgh area Habitats.
“There are so many ways to help with Habitat,” said Boland. And the SHU Habitat Chapter plans on helping in as many ways possible. “We are just getting started on something great,” said Boland.