Sometimes the construction of one building can change the environment and prospects of an entire community.
This was the thought process behind UCD’s Volunteers Overseas (UCDVO) group when they ventured as far as Nicaragua to help local workers build a multi-purpose classroom in San Isabel in the north of the country. The students needed to fundraise a minimum of €2,650 for their flights, accommodation and their food to go half way across the world and work on a construction site in 30 degree heat during their summer holidays in order to help those most in need.
ElectricAid felt that this type of project needed to be encouraged and commended and so the Committee agreed to fund €6,000 towards the construction materials for the project.
Initially, the plan for the students for their 4 week project was to help complete 60% of the total construction. Expectations were truly succeeded and the building was 90% completed on their final day.
The classroom has allowed more people in San Isabel to complete vocational training as well as providing a space for surrounding communities to host meetings and events throughout the year. It is said to be a very popular addition to the village.
The selfless act of these students to spend days, weeks and months fundraising, travelling and working in intense heat to help those that are less fortunate than themselves is something that we can all look up to.
For more information please read the full project report here:
17-A-074 Final Report 10072018
electricaid.ie 