Earlier this week, 72 students participated in Project Habitat, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity across the Triangle as part of Duke University’s Experiential Orientation.
On day one, students split between the Cary, Raleigh, Durham-Chapel Hill, Hillsborough and Brier Creek ReStores, spending the morning assisting the team while learning more about Habitat’s mission and the role ReStores play in supporting affordable housing.
“Project Habitat is an orientation group centered on community service, and that is a value we are instilling in our freshmen right from the start,” said Dani, Duke University sophomore and Project Habitat orientation leader. “My favorite part of last year was being able to go out and make a difference during my first week at Duke. I ended up joining the Habitat for Humanity Club, and it set the tone for how involved I wanted to be.”
Throughout Orientation Week, students engage with community organizations like Habitat through hands-on service and learning. Students involved with Project Habitat spend the week volunteering at Habitat for Humanity ReStores and construction sites in Durham and Orange counties.
"I think it's so sad that our communities are limited in how much they can grow and change based on people's income,” Dani said. “Everyone should be able to afford a safe place to live in the areas where they work and have a life."
Through their time volunteering with Habitat, students are learning not only about the need for affordable housing, but also how they can be part of the solution.
“That’s part of what this orientation is,” said Keith, Duke University junior and Project Habitat orientation leader. “Being able to familiarize new Duke students with the community around them and each of their unique needs.”
We’re grateful to Duke’s Project Habitat for spending part of Orientation Week supporting Habitat’s mission. Thank you for volunteering and spreading awareness of the critical need for affordable housing in our community!