May 19 -25 will mark the 11th Annual International Service Trip to Belize.
Organized by Campus Ministry, the Belize Service trip gives students an opportunity to explore South America’s culture though explorations of Caribbean caves, as well as Altun Ha: a site of ancient historical culture to the Mayans.
The main staple of the Service Trip, however, is the chance to construct a home for a family in need. Saint Xavier Campus Ministry recently extended applications for the trip until December 3rd.
Adelinne Whittenhall, a second time chaperone for this service trip, has first-hand experience with preparations and tying up loose ends when the trip comes to an end. Whittenhall’s association with Campus Ministry predates her 2018 Belize trip.
“I went [to Saint Xavier University] for undergrad. I applied to work their front desk, because I needed a job. Through that position, I was able to meet a lot of people and then I went on the Awakening’s Retreat. It blossomed from there and now I work as a graduate assistant.”
When asked to comment on the service trip’s history, Whittenhall shared, “As far as I know, they’ve all been very successful.
“The organization we work for, Hand In Hand Ministries, is very organized. No matter how many people are going, we always end up finishing the house by the last day.”
She also recounted her personal experience at the 2018 Belize trip.
“The families have to complete multiple builds before they’re able to get their own house, so each family is very invested in the process. Last year, we built a house for a man, Steven, and his wife, Naeli, and their daughter. It was a wonderful experience.”
There are whispers among students that this year’s service trip was at risk of cancelation. When inquired upon, Whittenhall elaborated, “We were experiencing a shortage of applicants. But since then, that’s totally turned around and we look good to go.”
Selection for this service trip is more nuanced than others offered by Saint Xavier University. “There are spots left until the application deadline, and then we’ll pick who gets to go. It’s not a first come, first served basis. It’s by which applicants we think are the most qualified, if they have a passport, those kinds of things.”
Whittenhall invites people to get out of their comfort zone and join in if they can.
“I know it looks daunting. The applications a little long, and the cost is $2000, but there are a lot of fundraising options.
“It’s really a wonderful experience that you can’t get anywhere else. The people that work with Hand in Hand are incredible and I wouldn’t trade my experience for the world. I think it’s amazing.”
For further details, Adelinne Whittenhall can be contacted at whittenhall@sxu.edu.
Deirdre Kleist, the Director of Campus Ministry, can also be contacted at kleist@sxu.edu.
Eric Perez
News Reporter