BCTC STUDENTS GIVE OF THEIR TIME AND TALENT FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Recently students from BCTC's Electrical Occupations program forfeited several Saturdays of sleeping late, hanging out with friends or going to the mall in exchange for a dose of accomplishment, gratification and self-fulfillment, not to mention participation in a wonderful cause.

Over the course of several Saturdays, instructor Phil Eisemann and his students volunteered their time, talent and knowledge to wire new houses for Habitat for Humanity in Lancaster County. Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry. Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat invites people of all backgrounds, races and religions to build and rehabilitate simple, decent houses with the help of the homeowner (partner) families.

According to Mr. Eisemann, who has been volunteering his time and talent  for the past twelve years, the experience was a wonderful opportunity for the students. "The students worked on six new houses, doing rough, as well as, finish wiring," he explained. "They got to apply the skills they are learning at BCTC and, at the same time, gained a whole new perspective on their profession. It was a real-life experience for these young men."

Students arrived early in the morning at their site and worked throughout the day. Most of the students volunteered their time to gain the experience and for the pure love of the trade. For some, it fulfilled a community service requirement in order to graduate from their sending school. During one of their visits, the students had the opportunity to witness a habitation ceremony. Habitation ceremonies occur when a house is completely finished and a family is able to move in.

Mr. Eisemann noted that, "The neat thing about volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, besides feeling a strong sense of accomplishment, is the experience of being surrounded and embraced by a community of individuals from all walks of life, nationalities, and backgrounds working towards a common goal. Simply put - it's just fun."