Habitat for Humanity

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY is a non-profit “housing ministry” that seeks to eliminate homelessness and poverty housing. Working with partner families, Habitat builds and/or renovates simple, decent houses which are then sold to the families through affordable, no-interest loans. HARVARD HABITAT FOR HUMANITY serves as a link between Harvard University students and HFH chapters in Eastern Massachusetts. Though Harvard HFH does not manage its own work sites, it does connect local Habitat sites with student volunteers on Saturdays during term. These volunteers help see sites through from foundation to furniture, and work side by side with other college students, members of the community, and partner families to get the job done. Harvard HFH’s link expands every Spring Break, when it sends groups of volunteers to other work sites in the Eastern United States. Harvard HFH also works on raising awareness of housing issues, combining forces with other Boston-area chapters, and sharing idea and experiences with college chapters around the world. If you would like to come on a work trip, please email habitat@hcs or directors Julie Chan (jlchan@fas) or Irina Perjar (iperjar@gmail.com) See http://www.hcs.harvard.edu/~habitat.

There are also summer opportunities through PBHA’s Habitat for Humanity program.

Alternative Spring Breaks (ASB)

Alternative Spring Breaks runs public service trips during Spring Break. We travel to rural and urban areas throughout the eastern United States. We work closely with community organizations to (1) renovate homes, churches, community centers, and playgrounds; and (2) learn about the social, economic, and political issues affecting the region. There is time for fun activities like bowling, skating, and visiting national parks. With a motto of “Community service, cultural exchange, and fun,” ASB provides a worthwhile experience during Spring Break. For more information, please contact Vicky Guo (vguo@fas), Terry Ding (tding@fas) or Christian Starling (starling@fas).