An update on Fall Break travel to West Virginia by the Class of ’14

An update on Fall Break travel to West Virginia by the Class of ’14

-by Dana Hedman

Over Fall Break 2013, nine members of our Class, along with Mentor Ken Hassell, traveled to Whitesville, WV to work with our community partner at the Boone-Raleigh Community Center. We built two bookshelves, completing the children’s library started last year. Additionally, we created a white-board wall, covered by a solar system mural, that could serve as a cozy reading corner for community children! IMG_2062

A few members were able to take a flight over various mountaintop removal sites to collect footage for an indiegogo promotional film. A group of our class was able to travel to other locations throughout West Virginia and Virginia to interview individuals about their experiences and efforts within the region.
shot from plane
All members attended the Changing of the Leaves Festival on Kayford Mountain, where we had the opportunity to talk with many individuals involved in environmental justice efforts throughout Appalachia. Having visited Kayford Mountain at the end of our sophomore year, this festival allowed us to return to a space that has stayed with many of us since our first visit.
The trip left our class feeling excited about upcoming events at the community center this fall and looking forward to future ways we can support their efforts.
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