The newly organized Aquinas student chapter of Habitat for Humanity is one of the first in the Rochester area, and is gaining momentum in both attention and members.

"The Habitat organization offers students a tangible way to provide service to the community, and learn valuable life skills at the same time," said Sister Sue Hoffman, education coordinator for Flower City Habitat for Humanity.

More than 100 senior high and AQJH students have expressed an interest in participating in the AQ chapter. "Our efforts include service, awareness, and fundraising," said AQ junior Nick Croce, who helped to organize the student chapter. Robbie Manners commented on why the AQ effort has gained so much interest. "I think students like the idea that there are many ways to participate, and that everyone has something to contribute, whether they are a teen or an adult."

The Aquinas student chapter participated in a city wide Earth Day fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity on April 18. Aquinas served as a collection site for recycleable materials such as TVs, computer monitors, cell phones, PDAs, all printer cartridges, printers, fax machines, gaming, audio and video equipment, kitchen electrics, cables, wire, etc.

Proceeds from these recyclable materials will support Habitat for Humanity campus chapters at local colleges and high schools, which in turn support Habitat's home building work in Rochester's JOSANA neighborhood.

The Aquinas Chapter was recently featured in the news, and has established a page on the Aquinas website and on facebook. Click below for links to each.

March 20 News 8 feature

AQ Chapter Webpage includes upcoming event information, and links to media coverage

Facebook members: Join the Group Aquinas Institute Habitat for Humanity