Locations
Sandy Valley, Kentucky
Become immersed in the culture and beauty of Appalachia with the Christian Appalachian Project WorkFest program. Bellarmine University has had a long standing tradition of attending WorkFest over the years. You will have the opportunity to meet college students from all over the United States, work in teams of approximately 15 to do repair on homes in the Sandy Valley region of Kentucky. In the evening take advantage of the beautiful surroundings by hiking, going for a run, or playing games with newly made friends. Each evening there are also cultural experience available, such as; award winning bluegrass performers, historical presentations on the area, campfires, and much more. Need more information? Click here.
Lake Charles, Louisiana- Trip Full
After the onslaught of Hurricane Katrina, Bellarmine began making yearly trips to Louisiana. Through a partnership with Project Build a Future and Campus Ministry this tradition has continued. You will work closely with fellow Bellarmine University students to do home repair and landscaping. This trip immerses you in the culture of Louisiana, through exploring the food, sights, and tradition of hospitality. In the past students have spent time with college students from McNeese State University, travelled to the Gulf, attended a Mardi Gras Parade, and much more. This trip brings to life the struggles faced by the people of Louisiana post-Katrina and the reminds us of the multiple challenges still ahead. Check out an article about Project Build a Future here.
Virginia (Kiptopeke State Park)
Spend the week on the coast of Chesapeake Bay and work with the State Park system in Virginia to repair boardwalks, plant trees, repair structures, placing rip rap along banks, prepare campgrounds, connecting and exploring the environment. In the evening you will have the opportunity to do geocaching, caving, hiking, visit other local parks, historical landmarks, and much more. Check out the Virginia State Parks here.
Washington, D.C. (Brown Scholars only) Trip Full
Since 1973, The Pilgrimage has made room and welcomed groups committed to exploring the connection between service and urban poverty. Each day of the trip you will participate in service within the D.C. area working at homeless shelters, halfway houses, soup kitchens, repairing homes in disrepair, and many other opportunities. Throughout the week you will learn about poverty in America, reflect, hear national speakers on the topic, and work in multiple ways to make a difference. You will be immersed in hands on activities and also have the chance to explore D.C.’s rich cultural heritage. For more information about The Pilgrimage, click here.