One week can change a life forever….
A Collegiate Challenge trip may be the best school break you will ever have. What other program gives you and your friends an opportunity to travel to Florida and spend a week working side-by-side with a future Habitat for Humanity homeowner? Not only do you help people in need–it’s also fun! You’ll have the chance to improve your carpentry skills, connect with new people in a new place and put your faith into action by making a real difference in Habitat for Humanity’s work of eliminating substandard housing.
What is Collegiate Challenge?
The Collegiate Challenge program began in 1989 and has grown into one of the largest year-round alternative break programs in the United States and Canada. Each year, thousands of high school and college students, as well as youth from church groups and other community organizations, participate in Collegiate Challenge. At Beaches Habitat, we welcome you and your organization to join us in the Sunshine State for this year’s Collegiate Challenge. If you are interested in learning more send us an email.
How does it work?
During the months of February and March, Beaches Habitat hosts groups of 10 to 25 students from up to 10 colleges and universities. The students each make a small donation and commit to volunteering approximately 32 hours on the construction site. In return, Beaches Habitat provides the group with no cost housing, several meals, daily refreshments, construction skills training, and a safe and fun alternative to traditional spring break trips. Registration is through the Collegiate Challenge department of HFHI and typically begins in October.
How can the Beaches Community help?
Beaches Habitat relies on the support of local organizations, churches and businesses to provide each student group with the amenities necessary to make their trip a success. Donations are tax-deductible and you will receive a small display item to showcase your support of our mission, as well as recognition on our website and social media.
- Group Host: Have a large activity center, meeting room or gymnasium with kitchen and shower facilities? Provide the students a place to rest after a hard day on the construction site. Group hosts are asked to make overnight facilities available for a full week.
- Meal Host: Hard-working volunteers need fuel to make it through the day. Prepare or provide a meal to keep hungry students motivated. We typically provide a “continental” breakfast on Monday, buffet lunch on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, and one “night out” dinner at a local restaurant, park or home any night of the week.
To learn more about assisting Beaches Habitat during Collegiate Challenge, call Sarah at (904) 241-1222 or send her an email.
