Service, social responsibility and spiritual depth.
St. Joseph’s University, New York students from the Long Island Campus demonstrated those pillars last month when they joined Campus Ministry director Jonathan Galo on a trip to volunteer with Habitat for Humanities.
Galo and the students, members of the student-run club BASIC (Brothers and Sisters in Christ), spent the day working on one of Habitat for Humanity properties on Long Island, finalizing the home for the client to move into in hopefully just a few weeks.
“It was extremely satisfying to see the before and after of our progress,” shared Norah Williams, a first-year biology major. “We were happy we could help out those in need while serving and glorifying the Lord in the process.”
The SJNY team worked on such projects as spackling the attic, cleaning the floors, putting down door trimming, installing the washer and dryer, putting the final coat of sealing on the door frames, and other small projects to make the house ready to pass inspection.
“I had tons of fun with my fellow volunteers from St. Joseph’s,” said Jared Glennon, who graduated from SJNY this past winter with a B.A. in Studio Art. “It’s always nice to be able to lend a helping hand. Habitat for Humanity is a wonderful organization. Their staff on site were extremely helpful, guiding us every step of the way throughout the day. They were also very enjoyable to work with.”
Galo said that, despite the terrible weather they had that day, it was a great experience.
“Our students seemed to really appreciate the work,” he said. “St. Joseph’s has had a long history of working with Habitat for Humanity, so I am grateful to keep that tradition alive.”
