Restoring Eden, a national Christian creation care ministry, is currently recruiting 60 students for an alternative spring break trip to the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, the heart of Appalachia, during March 10th -17th OR March 17th –24th.
Restoring Eden is teaming up with West Virginia University’s Public Health Department to participate in a health survey comparing the impacts of coal and non-coal environments upon the health of the local community.
The student volunteers will go into communities throughout Kentucky, meet with local folks in their homes, and administer a simple health history survey. Those surveyed will also have an opportunity to give a hair sample which will be tested for toxic contamination. Local community members will assist each group with introductions and with negotiating the back-roads and hollows of this historic region.
Students are asked to commit to one day of training and at least four days of survey gathering. After completing their commitments, there will be the opportunity for students to explore the local region, go hiking or visit historical sites. Additionally, Restoring Eden can work with student activities offices, campus ministries and academic departments to negotiate official compensation (volunteer hours, service credit etc.) for time spent on this project.
The cost for the trip is $150 and includes food, lodging, and training materials for the week. Transportation to Kentucky is not included. Some limited scholarships are available; please contact Gretchen at Alexis@restoringeden.org if the price is a barrier for you.
All students are invited to apply, especially those interested in environmental science, public health, social work, chemistry, nursing, biology, political science, sociology, and social justice. Register here or for more information, contact Alexis Williams at Alexis@restoringeden.org or (360) 518-9094. Sign up today as time is short and spaces are already starting to fill up!
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