Today was probably the most
rewarding day we’ve had thus far. It was
also the saddest day, because it was our last day of service, and the
unforgettable experiences we’ve had, have left us wanting more. In gorgeous
weather, the members of our ASB team began by splitting into two separate
groups. The first group was sent to clear out neglected items of our previous
site’s former occupants (while dirty, was a positive experience!) so that the
remaining students could move on to the larger task of demolishing the third
and final site. The first group joined them a few hours later.
Along with our neighbors for the
week, students from the University of Delaware, we tore down an
already-standing house in less than 6 hours! In amazement at witnessing the
bulldozer collapse the structure, we gathered our tools and got to work. No one
person was in charge as we were all novices in the practice of deconstruction. However, as a team, we knocked down drywall
until there was nothing remaining but the frame. By the end of the day, the work site was
completely cleared!
Below is a picture timeline of all that we accomplished today!
At the beginning of the day, a full house was standing |
A few hours later we had removed all the drywall and siding |
By 3 pm, the entire house was gone! |
Special moments of the day
included lessons in “humility and flexibility.” Amanda, a local camp counselor
whose program was destroyed by Hurricane Irene, helped us place a face with the
situation. She explained to us the sites we are working on are in a depressed
section of town, and that we were not only tearing down condemned structures,
but rebuilding the community. Her gratitude for all we have been doing was
humbling.
We started by tearing down all the drywall |
After the house was down, we carried the debris to the dumpster |
The fulfilling aspect of our
service is not just in changing a situation, but in inspiring those affected by
it. During Amanda’s speech, she thanked us for our loud cheers, which she could
hear from her porch (unbeknownst to us) and claimed lifted the hearts of her
neighbors. See the link below!
After three full days of
challenges, we could not have asked for a better trip. Not only have we seen a
change in Bayboro, North Carolina, but we’ve seen a change in ourselves through
teamwork and bonding. Between helping others as well as one another, we have a
full concept of why we choose to do service work. Coming together for a common
good and realizing that the smallest thing can brighten someone’s day is a true
gift.
Above is a photo from our semi-professional on-site photo shoot with our ASB Men! |
Blog written by: Jeanine Russaw, Class of 2015 and Julia McGuire, Class of 2016
Love the cheer you guys! Glad you learned so much about yourselves and the area during your time in NC! Great job!
ReplyDeleteHey guys - I am humbled and proud. The spirit and dedication you put into this work is remarkable. Thanks for being such great ambassadors for Hofstra! Cheryl Betz
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