Buffalo State University Students Spend Spring Break Volunteering in the Community

Ten individuals from Buffalo State University, including students, faculty, and staff members, spent three days of their precious spring recess volunteering with the Alternative Spring Break (ASB) program March 26–28.

Coordinated by Lisa Kragbé, assistant director of the Civic and Community Engagement Office, and co-sponsored by the Chi Alpha student organization, this year’s ASB focused on addressing two pressing social justice issues: child wellness, through a collaboration with Boys on the Right Track; and housing access, through a collaboration with Habitat for Humanity Buffalo.

The first day, the team undertook a service project creating a database of 570 addresses, preparing postcards and letters for a Boys on the Right Track promotional campaign. On the second and third days, the group worked with Habitat for Humanity Buffalo, contributing to the construction of affordable homes, a vital step in combating housing insecurity. The Habitat project taught participants many new skills, such as various aspects of construction, including the installation of drywall and the construction of a basement staircase wall using pressure-treated wood. Additionally, they learned how to safely use construction tools such as electric screwdrivers, drills, and a Husqvarna chain saw. The experience deepened their understanding of community dynamics and also improved their skills in teamwork, leadership, and community engagement. 

Both projects, while distinct in their focus, collectively aimed at making tangible improvements within the Buffalo community by addressing the diverse needs of vulnerable populations. Through hands-on involvement, the group gained invaluable insights into the complexities of social justice.

Photos by Jesse Steffan-Colucci, Buffalo State photographer.

Story by Civic Engagement Series intern Amie Wally, business administration major, Class of 2024 (pictured top left).