In mid-March 2025, 18 college students from Rochester Institute of Know-how (RIT) in New York spent their spring break making an actual distinction at Cloudland Canyon State Park, one in all Georgia’s most beloved and closely visited parks.
Fairly than choosing a conventional trip, these college students selected to spend their week giving again to public lands and deepening their reference to the outside. Everybody had their very own causes for signing up, however a typical thread was a love for the outside and a need to make a distinction. As one pupil put it, “I’m actually obsessed with making the outside extra accessible and sharing environmental data. I normally work on this type of factor in school, however I needed an opportunity to get on the market and really do one thing hands-on.”
Over the course of the week, the group labored tirelessly to finish main tasks throughout the park, impacting a complete of 4.6 miles of path. Their efforts included repairing growing older picket bridges, refurbishing backcountry privies, restoring a disc golf course, and finishing essential plantings to beautify the entrance entrance. These duties, whereas generally bodily demanding, play a vital position in making certain the park stays protected, accessible, and welcoming for the hundreds of holiday makers who take pleasure in its trails annually.
Past the exhausting work, college students gained a deeper appreciation for what it actually takes to take care of public lands. One participant shared, “I realized a lot about path upkeep and easy methods to keep trails. I’ll by no means have a look at a mountaineering path the identical means and have a newfound appreciation for all of the love that goes into sustaining parks.” It was clear by week’s finish that the expertise left an enduring affect, inspiring many to proceed supporting public lands sooner or later.
The Cloudland Canyon State Park workers have been equally moved by the scholars’ dedication, sharing, “The RIT college students offered nice assist in the Cloudland Canyon State Park. Our park supervisor was very impressed and appreciated their efforts.” Due to the exhausting work and constructive vitality of those college students, the park is healthier ready to serve guests for seasons to come back.
To be taught extra about Different Breaks and the way your school or youth group can take part, be taught extra right here!
AHS additionally presents Volunteer Holidays, which is a good way for people of all ages to mix their ardour for journey with significant service work. These journeys present a novel alternative to make a constructive affect whereas exploring new locations and cultures. Take a look at our journeys right here!
Lastly, in case you’d wish to take part in Nationwide Trails Day occasions organized by AHS, the place volunteers come collectively to rejoice and enhance trails throughout the nation, be taught extra right here.
