Jameson Fowler photos
Students plunge in to the 40 degree water at the Troy City Rec Center.
Troy Pike Habitat for Humanity held a chilling fundraiser at the Troy City Rec Center outdoor pool over the weekend that had students and community members alike willingly plunging into 40-degree water.
Troy Pike Habitat for Humanity Fundraising and Publicity Chairperson Dianna Lee shared how the organization changes people’s lives.
“We provide housing for low to moderate income families who apply and then are selected,” said Lee. “This is not a free house because they must put in what we call ‘sweat equity.’
“They not only help build their house but then help build other houses as well. Additionally, they go through a financial literacy program prior to signing the mortgage, which is a no-interest mortgage.” Burnard Thomas, a senior criminal justice major from Detroit, Michigan was one of the brave souls who plunged into the chilly waters.
“Personally, I actually really love cold plunges,” Thomas said “I love everything about ice baths and the therapeutic values that they bring.
“For me, it was awesome. I loved it.”
Troy University’s Habitat for Humanity chapter was also present handing out warm towels and coffee to the plungers. Lee also expressed the value of Troy students participating in the plunge.
“I want them to understand that that what they're doing is fun, I hope,” Lee said. “It's also for a very good cause.
“Home ownership is something that is never guaranteed. For some people who are trying to get there, we can provide that conduit for them. By Troy’s students raising money and doing the plunge, someone gets closer to having a home.”
SGA members also participated in the plunge to show their support for Habitat for Humanity. SGA Senator Jayden McQueen, a junior political science major from Crestview, Florida, shared her thoughts on why students should get involved with serving the community.
“I would recommend students take advantage of the time that they’re here at Troy to get involved with the community, whether it’s through an organization on campus or joining a club," McQueen said. “Troy University's Habitat for Humanity is a great place to start and a wonderful way to get involved.
“You have been placed in this great community, so why not take advantage to serve.”
Habitat for Humanity's vision is a world where everyone has a decent place to live. In Troy, the organization aims to build a new home every 18 months, honoring their mission of bringing people together and building homes.
In the next six months, Troy Pike Habitat for Humanity will begin construction on its 20th home. To find out how to get involved, readers can visit the organization’s Facebook page, “Troy Pike Habitat for Humanity,” or check out troypikehabitat.com.
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