On October 22, the Connecticut College Habitat for Humanity chapter celebrated World Habitat Day. Within the Habitat for Humanity community, this is a day to recognize the successful global network that this organization is. Like most other events that we host, it is intentionally inclusive and asks for the community’s help to spread awareness of our presence on campus and to encourage participation from our peers and friends. My own involvement in Habitat includes being a member of the executive board as the fundraising coordinator. I have found a dedicated and awesome community of students through my involvement in our Habitat chapter at Conn.

‌Our event included free doughnuts from Tony’s Square Donuts, Habitat for Humanity trivia, a nailing competition (how many nails can you nail in 30 seconds), and the building of a wooden wall frame that will be included in the actual construction of a house being built in New London. We also had a raffle where participants won swag from the bookstore and other small trinkets and prizes. The day was filled with torrential rain, but the sun miraculously came out during the three-hours that our group took over part of Tempel Green. 

Another important aspect of our group’s work is that it spans far beyond the campus grounds every spring. During one week of our two-week spring break (an amazing perk that allows Conn students to do meaningful things with their time off) the Conn chapter travels somewhere warm to participate in the Habitat for Humanity Collegiate Challenge. Last year we went to Fort Lauderdale, Florida and worked alongside other college students who also traveled from far-away states to help build homes for deserving families. We also do builds around the New London area every school year.

The work that our Habitat for Humanity chapter does on- and off-campus is a fulfilling and wonderful kind of community outreach. Those of us at Conn involved in this special partnership are granted a meaningful way to connect and improve the areas surrounding our home here in New London.