Habitat for Humanity volunteers at St. Mary’s College of Maryland raise funds
Historic St. Mary’s City – Dec. 10, students of St. Mary’s College of Maryland and members of the local community came out in support of “Winterfest,” sponsored by the class of 2019. Montgomery Hall was alive with sounds of live music, costumed interpreters, crafts, games and interactive fun in the name of fundraising. The arts, film and media students took this opportunity to show collective work and responsibility in action.
Art and craft vendors lined the hallways with tables overflowing with unique items. With winter as the event theme, a group of young people showed their creative talents by making cut-out snowflakes in various shapes and sizes. This fun bunch told TheBayNet.com, “We are trying to make a really giant snowflake. One problem–it is hard to see a white snowflake on the white background.”
Many individuals took this opportunity to share information about charities and civic groups, as well as raise funds on behalf of these organizations.
First-year student, Pat McMann of Baltimore said, “At the beginning of the school year, there is a big club fair where students get information about the active clubs they can join on campus.”
By supporting each other in the quest to be responsible members of society, student volunteers counted this event as a success. Students represented various types of organizations, such as the Children’s Miracle Network and the Habitat for Humanity.
Many students have been active in their local communities for years through church or high school volunteering.
As students prepare to leave for winter break, many are already planning for spring break already. Spring break is when student volunteers from St. Mary’s College take a trip to Greenville, GA for a week and work on a Habitat house project. For the last 10 years, volunteers have traveled to Georgia to help a homeowner.
Habitat for Humanity is a global nonprofit housing organization working in nearly 1,400 communities across the U.S. and in approximately 70 countries. People in the community and all over the world partner with Habitat to build or improve homes. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage.
Mavet Rosas of Frederick County told TheBayNet.com that her project work with the Habitat has been very rewarding. Rosas, a senior at St. Mary’s College said, “I have volunteered for the past three years working, and I just love it.”
McMann said, “I joined the Habitat after attending a club fair, and because Mavet is my best friend.” This is his first year as a college volunteer, however, McMann said he has experience working with Habitat in Baltimore.
To raise funds the group decided to sell decorated picture frames shaped like houses. Student volunteer Kate Cumberpatch said, “We can’t actually build a real one-house right now, so we decided picture frame houses were the next best thing.”
With a bright smile and twinkle in her eye, Cumberpatch said, “Sixteen of us go down and the time is always so awesome. One of the neat things about going to Georgia is the group we meet up with are all great people in retirement.”
Working with the older members of the Habitat team has positively impacted these young adults.
The students are learning about more than just building homes – they are building an appreciation for wisdom and knowledge. Cumberpatch said, “When the entire group comes together each year, we are like a real live Motley Crew – it’s just great.”
Contact Shertina J. Mack at s.mack@TheBayNet.com.
