Spring break of senior year was coming up, and when people asked what I was doing, the last thing they expected to hear was a trip to
My roommate Lynann and I joined 14 others on the trip, where we helped rebuild houses that were destroyed from the 2008 flood. I didn’t realize how devastating the flood was until we arrived…and seeing the abandoned homes and destruction really made me be thankful for everything I have. The best part of the trip was seeing the sincerity on the local people’s faces when they said “Thank you...we truly appreciate any help we can get”.
Our Carroll group instantly clicked, and we were all able to make some great new friends. We worked together ripping off and replacing the siding on a garage, destroying and rebuilding a deck, painting, jackhammering, removing debris, ripping down fences, landscaping, and more. Over the 3.5 workdays we were able to work on 5 houses, which ultimately means helping 5 different families.
Even though we were determined to work hard and get a lot done, there were plenty of smiles had along the way. We met and hung out with another college from Pennsylvania, did a hilarious scavenger hunt, played cards, went to the YMCA, did a Chinese firedrill in the middle of a highway, made and ate a ton of amazing food, took pictures, got a tour of the flood zone, and so much more.
The people from the church that was hosting us were absolutely amazing by providing shelter, homemade food, answering questions, providing t-shirts, and more. We felt so welcome, wanted, and appreciated by everyone. Everyone was so optimistic and positive…it was refreshing.
So I chose not to take the typical spring break trip for a senior year. But memories were created, smiles were everywhere, fun was had everyday, and we were able to leave with the satisfaction of knowing we made a difference in numerous people’s lives.
Would I do it again? Absolutely!
Brit Hartman
Class of 2010
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