Emily - CASA - Blog 2

Day two of the CASA-centered Alternative Winter Break was just as rewarding and exciting as day one. Today the group was challenged to help construct a wheelchair ramp for a client in Huntsville. While the work was difficult in its use of power tools and construction equipment, ultimately, the experience was overwhelmingly rewarding. Altogether, the construction took about three hours. The process included construction of handrails, platform building, base securing, and numerous amounts of nailing, hammering, and screwing. The job was particularly satisfying because its progress was easily tracked throughout the varying stages of assembly. After all the equipment was put away, the client was encouraged to try out the ramp for the first time. Watching him wheel down the newly composed ramp was extremely fulfilling. Even more so, the client’s family was brought to tears by the construction, and all of the sweat and nails were indeed “worth it.” Knowing, in some little way, that we helped someone achieve an easier, more accessible everyday living situation brought an unimaginable delight to all those involved. This simple act encouraged me to wonder in what small, plentiful ways others can begin to change the world for their fellow citizens.

While the first half of the day was spent hard at work at a client’s home, the second half of the day consisted of garden work at the CASA community garden. The entire premise of the community garden is one of great honor and admiration. The garden works to grow fruits and vegetables which are then delivered to clients of CASA who may not have access to fresh produce. The clients are then free to can the produce, pickle it, freeze it, etc. Some of the CASA staff even mentioned that the harvest is able to last some individuals throughout the winter. Altogether, the garden manages to help feed approximately five-hundred people throughout Huntsville. As for our work, we were responsible for treating compost and moving numerous tomato cages. While we worked, we were able to learn about the garden’s rich history and its diverse clientele. The garden work was a joy because its purpose was so incredibly meaningful. As we continue our efforts in Huntsville, it is thrilling and motivating to begin the immersion into Huntsville’s needs and customs. As this knowledge is acquired, it can be adjusted accordingly to continue such efforts closer to home.