Cedarcrest DECA Students Partner with Habitat for Humanity
By: Leanne Christensen, RSD
Along with many hours dedicated to their studies, sports, and part-time jobs CHS DECA students also found the time to be part of an important Habitat for Humanity sponsored project, in a Snoqualmie Ridge development. This was the first Habitat for Humanity endeavor for the DECA students, but "probably not the last" shared DECA officer Savannah Osborne.
Savannah along with fellow officer, Courtney Fields researched the program contacted Habitat and organized the event. Working with a Habitat for Humanity employee named Reza, through many phone calls and e-mails; the date was scheduled, questions were answered, supplies were made available and students anxiously awaited the opportunity to make a "hands on" difference in their community. One of the goals of the DECA organization is to encourage students to take an active part in the development and growth of their communities, and this project accomplished that goal and so much more.
The work day began with the students participating in a mandatory 15 minute safety session. They were then divided into groups. One group helped to paint 3 large sheds to be shared by the families, while others assisted with insulating the basement portion of the house. They put up insulation, and helped to lay plastic barriers out on the floors. Students also created mud flaps out of cardboard boxes to go over vents at the base of the house. Equipped with masks, glasses, hard hats, and gloves, students spent the entire day working tirelessly, taking a much appreciated hour break for lunch.
There were 10 students in all, who participated in this important volunteer project. Savannah proudly states, "This was a very special day for all of us. Our efforts helped to build a house for a family who could not otherwise have one. It was a wonderful way to give back to our community, our country, and our planet."
L to R: Jared Duffy, Noelle Johnson, Aarika Rasmussen, Chealsea Lindemoulder, Savannah Osborne,
Gavin Olivis, Zac Malak, Jake Lowry.
Front L to R: Heath Olson, Andy Harm