SERVE restores the community
There are a lot of opportunities available for students to volunteer, but sometimes it can be difficult to choose which one is right for you.
One organization open to students of any major or background is community service initiative SERVE. Formerly known as S.O.S., the program is led by third-year illustration major Betsy DelCiampo.
“I loved it so much that after four quarters of volunteering, I decided to apply for the position of the Habitat Coordinator,” DelCiampo said. “This is now my second quarter as coordinator.”
Last weekend, 11 volunteers arrived at the ReStore on Victory Drive, a building supply store for the Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity. Managed by Charles Austin for more than three years, the store is stocked with donated items, from building materials to household goods. Items are sold at a reduced price and proceeds go toward building new homes.
“Our mission is to eliminate poverty housing in Chatham,” Austin said, elaborating on the significant growth of the organization over the years.
Volunteers cleaned and priced recently donated tile while others loaded and unloaded moving trucks. Passersby stopped to praise the effort and support students’ progress.
ReStore also hosted a ‘how-to’ clinic for women where volunteers Jim Hagan and Howard Hodge were on hand to demonstrate how to properly use a number of power tools.
At the end of a long work day, a proud team boarded the bus. “I wanted to help and give back to the community,” said Austin Dupio, a graphic design first-year. “I feel like it’s an important thing to do when you’re young so that when you’re older you’ll do it too.”
Students are scheduled to help out with World Habitat Day activities on Oct. 13. Emily Mcelwain-Siems, a graphic design first-year, urges students to attend.
“I think if you have the ability to help you should.”
Interested in serving? Follow the group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SCADServe
