Habitat for Humanity SEMO Chapter crunches for time, as they try to complete their Southeast Build house before students leave for summer.
After four build days, the once vacant lot is starting to rise up. The foundation has been laid, the back wall is standing, and a second wall has been built. Students continue to work hard, hoping weather is permitting, however with the summer clock ticking, it doesn’t look like Habitat for Humanity SEMO Chapter will reach their goal of finishing the Southeast Build house by May.
“Although this is kind of disappointing I am glad the house has at least been started and I plan to help out this summer since I will be in Cape,” said President Jessica Cooper.
Realizing it’s hard at the end of the year, Cooper continues to work towards their goal, stressing the importance to her members about going whenever they find an opportunity. Meetings are done for the year, but Cooper hopes e-mail reminders and Monday and Wednesday night builds will encourage members to go.
Although she said all of their most active members and executive board have been to at least one or two builds between the Southeast Build house and 325 S. Ellis house, she still worries people will loose sight of their goal as finals soon approach.
“I am just worried about people not having the time or will to help out with the house these past couple of weeks of school. I know that this is crunch-time for many, but I hope our members will take a break from all the hussle and bussle of essays and studying for finals to come and lend a hand. It is actually something that can be really good for de-stressing,” said Cooper.
Regardless of their finish date, this has been a big year for Habitat for Humanity SEMO Chapter, who started in October 2009. The organization has successfully increased their member base, planned and funded an all-expensed spring break trip, and volunteered numerous hours of their time to their Southeast Build house and Cape Area Habitat for Humanity’s 325. S Ellis house.
“I do not think any of us, who were involved in the beginning of Habitat’s first year, expected this year to go so great. We listed out goals and have reached, if not exceeded all of them,” said Cooper.
As the school year winds down, Habitat for Humanity SEMO Chapter is already planning next semester. A new house project is already set to start in September.
Unfortunately the “SEMO Build” didn’t go off as planned, but the Habitat for Humanity student chapter has been very active and is anxious for the next house to start in September", said Industrial and Engineering Technology Professor and Habitat for Humanity SEMO Chapter Advisor, Brian McMeel.
Elections will be held next week, allowing for new members to step up and lead the organization in their next September house build. However, although Habitat for Humanity SEMO Chapter is starting the Fall semester off strong, President Jessica Cooper is not worried about their future leaders.
“We will be starting next year with our executive board being full of people who I know are dedicated. This is a big change from last year. I am excited that we will have many strong people to help lead our group next year. I hope that we can do even more next year and that Habitat for Humanity SEMO Chapter will continue to grow and stays thriving when I leave,” said Cooper.
If you are interesting in volunteering, or becoming a member in the Fall, please contact Jessica Cooper at jlcooper3s@semo.edu
