Wittenberg students broke the mold of the typical college spring break and headed to the impoverished Central American nation of Nicaragua, intent on making a difference.

“This trip is a life-altering experience for any person,” said Carly Dahs ’07.
Dahs, who made her third visit to the country as a student leader, was one of seven Wittenberg students who dedicated their spring break to helping others in La Borgoña, Ticuantepe, Nicaragua. Miguel Martinez-Saenz, assistant professor of philosophy, who organized the trip for a fourth consecutive year, accompanied the group.

From Monday through Thursday the Wittenberg group worked on a total of six different houses. Family members in the community were encouraged to work with the group to help construct their new homes.
“While you are there you really see how grateful the families are that you are willing to leave your home, your family and your friends to help build a house for them,” Dahs said.

Also during the week, Bridges to Community arranged a variety of activities to help the students gain a more comprehensive perspective about the community, the culture and Nicaragua itself. For example, a woman came to talk about the health issues of Nicaragua, and the students spent a day working and conversing with Nicaraguan university students.
“This trip has inspired me in many ways,” Dahs said. “It has inspired my future, my outlook on life, and my outlook of the world.”