By Paige Chickadaunce, junior psychology major
The Alternative Fall Break trip was an experience I’ll never forget. Throughout the week, we had the opportunity to help many different groups of people in Knoxville, Tennessee. One day, we assisted a free store by loading and unloading the carts for those trying to get back on their feet after flooding from hurricanes. Another day, we helped the Knoxville Salvation Army with some upkeep of their facility and equipment they use during the holiday season to raise money for those in need of shelter. Our last day of service was spent at the Metro Drug Coalition of Knoxville, packing opioid overdose reversal kits to be dispersed by the center when necessary. We also got to sit in on and contribute to a music therapy session with other men in the drug and alcohol recovery small group. After assisting at the Metro Drug Coalition, we handed out care packages that we created and decorated for the homeless under a busy nearby bridge.
I was interested in going on this trip because of the opportunity to serve populations in need.
The group of people, combined with work I felt passionate about, made me want to go on the trip. As someone who has experienced a natural disaster and its effects, I wanted to help those going through something similar. My family was heavily impacted by a tornado that hit my hometown of Sullivan, Indiana, in 2023. The amount of support we received was amazing, so it inspired me to want to also help those in need.
My biggest takeaway from the trip was that opportunities to volunteer surround us, but we might be blind to the fact that there is a need to be fulfilled. This trip brought light to the situations and circumstances of those with very little—materially and holistically.
To a student who is debating on going on an alternative fall break trip, I tell them — The work you pour out for others will make your heart overflow with goodness. All the sayings, “you only live once,” “bite the bullet,” “take the leap of faith,” they’re all true. You may never get the chance again. Who knew that changing the lives of others also changed your own?
Paige Chickadaunce is a junior psychology major minoring in mathematics and education pedagogy at SMWC. Originally from Sullivan, Indiana, Paige came to The Woods as a student-athlete seeking small class sizes and a community-like campus. She’s very involved on campus in clubs and organizations, including Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Service31, campus ministry and spirituality club, as well as the cross country & track team. Paige is also a Saint Mother Theodore Guerin Scholar. Additionally, Paige enjoys being involved in the community as she recently completed an internship with the West Central Indiana FCA. In her free time, she can be found going on a walk or run on campus, admiring its beauty or hosting a Bible study with her team.
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