MUNCIE, Ind. - Quality work from Ball State University Habitat for Humanity members prompted a repeat invitation for service in Louisiana.

The organization recently traveled to Covington, La., for the second time to build homes for families who earn below-median income. The group's main goal is in line with the Habitat for Humanity goal to "eliminate poverty housing."

Ball State students involved in AmeriCorps accompanied Habitat for Humanity members to fulfill a national effort to increase volunteerism. AmeriCorps members are selected by and serve with local and national organizations like the American Red Cross, Big Brothers/Big Sisters and Boys and Girls Clubs.

AmeriCorp members reviewed the structural plans for the house, then constructed the walls and put the pieces together. Habitat for Humanity students framed, put trusses on the home and helped with other construction needs.

"We also worked alongside trade school students and did as well as they did," said Jack Bridges, a Ball State graduate student from Americus, Ga.

The experience left a lasting memory on all of the volunteers.

"The most memorable moments were working with the homeowners and their children. Seeing an actual physical structure you've put up is also very powerful," Bridges said. "You sometimes lose track of the difference you can make in the world. And from an experience such as this, you get to not only see the result, but also feel it."

The homes are sold to the families for no profit, and the house payments are used to build additional housing. John Svalenka, a Ball State senior from Chicago, said that providing homes for families who previously had none left him with a good feeling and makes him realize how fortunate he is.

"We develop a friendship because we are working with the families on a daily basis," he said. "Some of the families have been struggling, working more than one job, and they live in cramped conditions. It's nice to provide them with a place that fits their needs and a place they can call home."

The Ball State chapter of Habitat for Humanity accepts volunteers at any time during the year and encourages others to work with them. Other ways to assist the group include providing material or cash donations, joining the homeowner selection committee and contributing construction expertise.

By Roseanne Durril, Graduate Assistant

(NOTE TO EDITORS: For more information, contact Jack Bridges by phone (765) 285-1350 or e-mail jackie_rye@yahoo.com, or contact Marlene Schreiber by phone at (765) 214-0403 or e-mail mvschreiber@bsu.edu.)