Welding students from Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) are participating in a service-learning project to repair the lift on Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity’s donation truck. The project, conducted under the supervision of an instructor, involves two classes from RVCC and one from Bound Brook High School.
The effort is part of RVCC’s Pray Family Center for Service Learning and Civic Engagement. The initiative is expected to be completed by December and supports the college’s focus on equipping students with practical skills while encouraging community involvement.
Ariel Curet, lead instructor for Advance Manufacturing/Welding at RVCC, said, “This project is an exceptional opportunity for our students to see the real-world application of their skills. By participating in the service-learning project, they will not only develop their welding proficiency, but also learn the value of giving back to their community.”
The repaired truck plays a key role in collecting donations for ReStore in Manville, which benefits local residents. Mariusz Siwiec, Assistant Manager at Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Manville, stated, “The donation truck is essential to our daily operations at the ReStore. This partnership with RVCC ensures that we can continue to collect donations safely and efficiently, supporting our mission to help more families achieve affordable homeownership.”
RVCC’s Service Learning Program allows students to integrate community service into their academic coursework and earn credit for these experiences. Each year, RVCC students provide service valued at over $1 million across more than 250 organizations in Somerset and Hunterdon counties. Over five years, this has amounted to contributions exceeding $5 million in economic value.
Students serve various organizations including public schools, literacy centers, nursing homes, municipal offices, food pantries, environmental centers and farms, as well as shelters addressing homelessness and domestic violence. Through these activities, students gain awareness of community issues while offering assistance without financial cost.
Raritan Valley Community College offers about 90 associate degrees and certificates along with career training programs at its Branchburg campus. More information can be found at raritanval.edu.
