Spring Break in Appalachia - Walsh University

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Mustard seed and Mountain “If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you.” The words “Spring Break” often evoke thoughts of partying college students, sunny beaches and worried parents. But for a group of 22 Walsh students, Spring Break took on a different meaning. This past March it became five days to make a difference in the lives of others, in the poorest areas of Appalachia. Often called America’s Third World, progress in Central Appalachia is often challenged by stagnant local economies, inadequate education, and communities that lack access to human and public services. Homes are often no more than shelter, with limited running water or indoor plumbing, poor 08 09 insulation and crumbling foundations. For many families, assistance with basic home improvements and an open heart can make all the difference between living or barely surviving in Appalachia. Spring Break 2009 saw the largest group of Walsh students to volunteer in the program's over 10 year history. “I think the increase in participation, especially from our freshman class, proves that Walsh’s mission of service has been embraced by our students,” said Mary Niedenthal, Student Outreach Coordinator. To accommodate the increased interest, students were split into two separate groups – one traveling to Mustard Seed and Mountain in NorthFork, West Virginia, with Campus Ministry Director Miguel Chavez, and the other group to the Gift of Tears Catholic Worker Farm in Spencer, West Virginia, under the supervision of Psychology Professor Dr. Joseph Wayand. Preparation before the trip included learning about the history of the region, understanding the traditions of its inhabitants and examining the culture deeply imbedded in pride. Volunteer activities by both groups included basic home repairs, interaction with residents and preparing meals for both volunteers and the families they served. One group endured bitter cold temperatures finishing an attic room so an elderly woman could invite her grandkids and relatives to visit and stay the night. Students were surprised by the welcome reception they Matthew 17:20
– Spring Break in appalachia received. “We weren’t just volunteering in their homes. It was like working in the home of a friend -- by the end of our trip we were all working alongside of each other,” said Sarah Reed. “My group was working in the home of a young married couple who were expecting,” said Maria Crookston. “We were all shocked to learn they were our age – 17 and 19. They had so many hardships but were so happy with their simple life. It was actually humbling to be in their presence. It was a reminder of what really matters in life – not possessions, but love.” Students also received an education on mountain top removal and valley fill coal mining. “In NorthFork, the families we visited depend on coal to heat their homes and stay alive,” said Crookston, who through Walsh has traveled to both Spencer and NorthFork. “In Spencer, it’s the complete opposite. The need for coal is destroying the land and threatening their entire community.” Mountain top removal and blasting from coal mining has destroyed entire towns with damaging floods, landslides and the pollution of rivers and streams essential to local water supplies. “It’s more than a service learning project. Appalachian residents receive respect and compassion, as well as assistance,” said Niedenthal. “Our students return transformed and passionate about conservation and aid to Appalachia. They become the voices for those they have served – encouraging others to take notice and take part.” While the quality of life in much of the region has improved through increased awareness and volunteer efforts over the past decades, pockets of poverty remain today. “It’s up to us,” said Crookston. “But the changes that need to happen in Appalachia may not happen in our lifetime. So, I guess all we can do is plant the seed and hope it will grow into something good…and that someday it will be strong enough to sustain itself. That’s a start.” walsh times summer 2009
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Spring Break in Appalachia - Walsh University

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