For over 20 years, students volunteer to build houses for those in need through Quinnipiac’s Habitat For Humanity chapter.

“Through volunteering, students gain a better understanding of needs in our immediate area. When they participate, they help to cut back on local economic disparity,” said Vince Contrucci, director of community service.

Students support the Greater New Haven chapter, as well as the Sleeping Giant Build. The latter is a group of Hamden residents who work to raise donations to help Humanity construct houses in town. The Quinnipiac Habitat chapter volunteers to staff charity events (including a regatta), and hosts fundraisers on campus, such as a chili cook-off, said Contrucci.

There are several Habitat builds planned throughout the year. The most recent was during winter break, when three students worked over three days on a one -family house. They assisted in framing the interiors walls, as well as putting plywood on exterior walls.

Three builds are planned for the Spring ’22 semester, including a spring break build in which six students will travel to North Carolina to volunteer with Habitat For Humanity of the Charlotte Region.

Other Habitat efforts include building homelessness kits for distribution through the Columbus House in New Haven, a provider of homelessness service. The event is organized by Student Health Services.

The kits include toiletries and other sundries like soap, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, tissues, lotion, Chapstick, band aids, condoms, and sewing kits. They also contain an informational card with locations for clothing closets and free meals, as well as a 211-hotline struggling individuals can call for resources.

“I like to host this event on Fresh Check Day, an annual day in the fall that focuses on mental health awareness. Participating in community service is a positive mental health practice,” said Contrucci. “It helps us to feel good about ourselves and feel good about others.”

To learn more about volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and other opportunities, please follow @QUServes on Instagram.