While some people spent their spring breaks working on their tans, a group of Spartans worked to build safe, warm, and dry homes for families in need in Floyd County, Kentucky.
The Spartans joined many other college students from around the country who chose to spend their week off to partner with families and Christian Appalachian Project to do some good.
This trip was part of a three weeklong event, WorkFest. For the last 25 years WorkFest has aimed to help improve the lives of families dealing with the distress of poverty in the Appalachians via alternative spring break programs. This program is one of many Alternate Spartan Breaks programs, each aimed at different aspects of community service.
MSU was joined by 102 students and leaders from 12 other higher education institutions including University of Florida, Rhodes College, and fellow B1G10 member, Pennsylvania State University. The students put their collegiate rivalries aside to repair a total of 14 homes during their visit.
“This experience exposes you to a different type of lifestyle than you’re used to,” said MSU senior Emily Grobbel. “I’m so thankful and humbled to be a part of this trip.”
At the end of the week, students cook a meal for the families they completed work for at the program’s retreat site. Over dinner the students are able to learn about the direct impact they are making for the families and Appalachian community of Martin, Kentucky.
“To see the tears in their eyes, it’s incredibly moving,” Grobbel said. “Not only are we helping these families with the labor we complete, but we are also a face and person to talk to.”
While the weeklong experience is associated with the Christian Appalachian Project, it is open to students of all religious backgrounds.
When asked what she’d tell students who are considering going on this trip, Grobbel had one thing to say: “Don’t hesitate, just do it.”
WorkFest 2017: John Oliva from Christian Appalachian Project on Vimeo.