Earlier this month, students wtih UHD's Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning (CCESL) traveled to San Antonio for a service project at Haven for Hope (H4H) Community Center.

H4H is an inclusive, holistic campus that relies on volunteers to provide programs and services to individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness. The program focuses on four core values:  radical compassion, servant leadership, driven by hope, and pursuit of excellence.

The group's trip also encouraged camaraderie and connections with UHD students and staff. The two-day experience left a lasting impact with the participating students. Thirteen Gators, including seven freshmen particpated in the service trip.

Freshman communications major Madelin Castro pointed out that “Being homeless can happen to anybody. We should all come together to help.”

“Even though the San Antonio service trip lasted two and half days, it had the same impact on me as my weeklong service experience in Ecuador," noted CCESL Peer Mentor Isbah Khan, a senior graduating with degrees in mathematics and philosophy. "I witnessed students reacting similarly—with positivity and empathy.  I learned a great deal about the services and assistance required to help individuals suffering from homelessness. Seeing how H4H operated as a community to ensure individual needs are met left me inspired to bring one-on-one assistance to my own community.”