Voluntourism, or a volunteer vacation, is a growing trend. Many college students are jumping on board with enthusiasm during Spring Break to try out Alternative Spring Break opportunities offered by organizations around the world. This year, GRID Alternatives teamed up with the World Wildlife Fund to offer "Solar Spring Break" to five student groups visiting California and Colorado to volunteer their time installing solar systems for low income homeowners.
Last week California State University, Chico students joined the GRID Alternatives North Valley office at two installs in Hamilton City and Chico. Shayla Ramos, Event Coordinator for Net Impact, organized the students. Most of the students have learned about solar technology in their classes, but none have had the opportunity to work directly with solar energy systems. It was a week full of educational opportunities that the students eagerly tackled.
The first install in Hamilton City was for the Urrutia family where the head of the household is a volunteer firefighter struggling to make ends meet. The students installed 14 solar panels for the family while learning how to measure the rails the panels are mounted on, wire the electrical systems, install the mounting system on the roof, and bolt down the panels.
The second system for the Meza Zepeda family was the eleventh and final house in a small cul-de-sac in Chico to get a solar system. After long complications, they were finally able to close escrow on their new home and qualify for GRID Alternatives' solar program. The students put their new solar installation skills to good use installing 10 solar panels in record time, finishing early on the final day.
Make a donation directly to GRID Alternatives through the student's fundraising website, and show your support for their volunteerism, and help them continue to raise funds for our program. Net Impact is a sustainable business organization at Chico State where students can learn about "green" careers in a variety of different industries.