Service trips are something that students can look forward too. They incorporate many aspects a young adult can enjoy and grow from. From planning, fundraising, the trip, and the actual help itself, service trips are a sure way for a student to mature. The trip this year, and last year, is to Guatemala. This event, which is around a week long, has young high school kids help out those in need in a safe and productive environment. Student have fun, and help out at the same time.

     Kids who took part in last year’s Guatemala trip said that it was one of the best experiences of their life, and some are even making a second trip this year. Junior Lindsay Zapolo explained the benefits of going on the trip, and why other students should be interested in it: “Oh, I loved it,” she said. “It’s a lot of physical work but its definitely worth it. The experience is unforgettable.”

  Zappolo explained the rest of the trip involved lots of hiking and communicating with the people she helped. During the trip, the kids worked to build stoves and enforce the residents’ housing so the elements would not harm them. Meeting all the people and helping them live more comfortably was a rewarding experience for the kids. They  communicated in Spanish when possible, and students got a feel for the culture in Guatemala. Although Spanish is not the local language in the villages they visited, it is well known in the area. Zapolo said “Even with the language barrier it was really easy to make a connection and get close to them. It makes you realise they are not so different after all.”

    One of the most interesting and sad places, Zapolo recalls, was the orphanage. She met malnourished children and a little sick baby. But it was not all sad; before going to Guatemala, the kids held  fundraisers and other activities to help these kids. They brought necessary sanitary objects, and most importantly, vitamins. Zapolo said, “There is a lot of planning, preparation, and fundraising.”

    Lindsay Zapolo is excited for the trip this year, and encourages kids to help out with the drives for necessary supplies.  If anyone is interested in taking this trip next year, they can talk to Ms. Hallihan or Mr. Brogna.