Stevenson University students and staff will travel to Monmouth County, New Jersey, May 21 through 27 for Mission in May.

The goal for this program, similar to Mission: I’m Home, is to rebuild homes in cities that have been struck by natural disasters. Stevenson will work alongside SBP, formally known as the Saint Bernard Project—an organization that has been instrumental in rebuilding homes since hurricane Katrina.

Mission in May will include 15-20 students and staff who hope to rebuild homes that were devastated by hurricane Sandy. Those overseeing this project include Courtney Burkett, helpdesk administrator; Tina Gigioli, Wellness Center administrative coordinator, and Jake Quimby, admissions communications specialist.

Students will learn home repair skills, hang drywall, fill in basement foundations and paint. Burkett said that the experience is “really fulfilling” and will give students a chance make lifelong friendships. However, she believes that the most important goal of Mission in May is to bring displaced homeowners back into their homes.

This trip costs $300 with a $50 deposit, but fundraising opportunities can help students cover the expenses. One fundraiser is a t-shirt sponsorship through which local businesses can pledge to sponsor attendees. Each sponsorship is $175, so two sponsorships will cover the costs per student. This trip promises to be character building and fulfilling for anyone who participates.

Enrollment in this year’s trip is filled.