While many people don’t think twice about their housing situation, for some, it’s a constant worry—in 2020, more than 17 million Americans spent half or more of their income on housing.
CWRU Habitat for Humanity strives to help those in need of decent and affordable housing. The more than 600 members of the service organization raise money for Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity, and they participate in the construction of quality housing—both in the Cleveland area and throughout the county.
Pranesh Ravichandran, a fourth-year studying biology and president of the student group, said people should be conscious of their neighbors and lend a helping hand to those in need, not only during the holidays, but beyond.
“We need to do all we can to get CWRU students involved in creating—and being part of—the solution,” he said.
Habitat for Humanity is known for helping families achieve strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. Members of its CWRU chapter help build homes in the Cleveland area, and during spring and winter break, they travel to warmer areas to assist Habitat affiliates with construction projects.
“We also work to allow the campus community to become involved with Habitat for Humanity without having to travel,” Ravichandran added.
Their biggest event of the year is Help Build Hope, held annually each spring, where group members partner with communities to build the entire frame of a three-bedroom house in one day. Everyone pitches in—from cutting wood, to following blueprints and leading the build.
Anyone is welcome to join CWRU’s chapter of Habitat for Humanity, whether they’re interested in attending discussions or want to get their hands dirty at a build site. To get involved, reach out to Ravichandran to be added to their mailing list, or follow them on Instagram.
“I’m able to see tangible changes that we have created with our club all the time,” he said. “It’s always great to get new people involved and have them discover how much of an impact they can make as CWRU students.”