Students use their spring break for a noble cause

Instead of going to the beach or watching the latest TV shows, ten Buffalo State University students, faculty and staff chose to volunteer March 26-28 for the Alternative Spring Break program!

Coordinated by Lisa Kragbé, assistant director of civic and community engagement, and co-sponsored by the student organization Chi Alpha, this year’s ASB focused on two pressing social justice issues: the well-being of children through a collaboration with Boys on the Right Track and housing. access through a collaboration with Habitat for Humanity Buffalo.

On the first day, the group undertook a service project creating a database of 570 addresses and completed a promotional postcard and letter campaign for a Boys on the Right Track mailout.

On the second and third days, they worked with Habitat for Humanity Buffalo to help build affordable housing, a critical step in combating housing insecurity. The Habitat Project taught new skills, deepened understanding of community dynamics, and improved skills in teamwork, leadership, and community engagement.

The project involved construction work, including installing drywall and building a basement stair wall from pressure-treated wood. Participants learned how to effectively use construction tools such as electric screwdrivers, drills and a Husqvarna saw. These experiences have provided them with the knowledge necessary to tackle a wide range of construction projects with precision and efficiency.

These two projects, although distinct in their focus, collectively aimed to make tangible improvements within the Buffalo community by addressing the diverse needs of vulnerable populations. Through hands-on involvement, the group gained invaluable insight into the complexities of social justice.

For more information on previous and upcoming ASB opportunities, follow Buffalo State Civic and Community Engagement on Instagram!