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GSW is proud to once again partner with the Fuller Center for Housing for a Blitz Build as part of the second annual Big Event, a service initiative dedicated to giving back to the local community. This April, we look forward to uniting the GSW community in a powerful demonstration of collaboration and civic engagement. This year, we are excited to join forces with South Georgia Technical College and Phoebe Sumter Medical Center to build a home for a deserving family creating a foundation for hope and stability right here in Americus.
GSW volunteer dates will be April 14-19, 22 and 24. Please register by March 24 if you would like a free t-shirt.
The house dedication will be held Friday, April 25.
Contribute to making a difference in the Americus community
Receive volunteer credit and learn new skills while at the job site
Make new friends while creating memories with the GSW community
Volunteers will receive a free t-shirt if registered by March 24
This specific type of service event educates GSW students while serving the local community as a whole. Our goal with each big project is to ensure our students are provided with the tools to better understand their environment and succeed well after their studies. We aim to:
Anyone! It is our goal to primarily engage our students with the event. However, faculty and staff will have opportunities to participate and lead informative sessions to better prepare our Hurricanes.
Volunteer hours for the Big Event will not be considered excused absences from class. Please be sure to coordinate with your instructors if you plan to participate.
Each volunteer will receive a Big Event T-shirt that you are encouraged to wear during the day. Teams may not know what duty they may have until the day of, so we recommend wearing comfortable shorts or pants and tennis shoes.
Be sure to wear clothes and that you do not mind getting dirty, as some locations involve painting, planting, or cleaning.
Tasks will depend on what day you volunteer for. Volunteer tasks for the Build Blitz may consist of painting, building, picking up sticks, raking, moving boxes, planting greenery, or organizing items.
As the Big Event tradition evolves, events will be chosen based on need and our capability to assist with the project.
No, experience is not expected. There will be a variety of tasks from beginner, intermediate, and expert depending on your skill level.
All pictures from last year's event can be found in the Big Event: Blitz Build | 2024 Facebook album.
Students will gain hands-on construction experience, problem-solving, leadership, and collaboration in a real-world project setting.
Students apply their skills to a meaningful cause, learning while actively contributing to a home-building effort that benefits the community.
Students will develop a sense of social responsibility, gain awareness of housing issues, and connect with the broader community.
Complete the volunteer sign-up form and submit your waiver to confirm your participation and secure your spot
Attend a mandatory Orientation on either April 2 or 3 from 4-5pm to explain volunteer duties and goals to prepare for the event
Wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty and closed-toed shoes (boots or tennis shoes are recommended)
Show up at the job site at your registered time and work your full shift; Supervision, supplies, and training will be given
David is the President of The Fuller Center for Housing, and is proud to partner with GSW once again on the Blitz Build to honor the Carters. He explained at last year's Groundbreaking how the Carters got involved with Millard and Linda Fuller’s ministries, and “it changed everything. The ministries just exploded, so we want to honor them with this house.”
Peter is the Contractor for the house build, and calls this project a “triple win” because you get to help a family, learn new skills, and meet great people.
Last year, GSW and The Fuller Center for Housing presented Emmanuel Robinson and his family with the keys to their new home. Emmanuel, a City of Americus employee and single father to 12-year-old Bentley and 4-year-old twins Asher and Auri, worked countless hours of “sweat equity” during the build. At the dedication ceremony, he shared his joy, saying, “It’s a blessing, and I’m so thankful for everyone who helped make this dream come true.”
This year, GSW and The Fuller Center for Housing are excited to present a new home to a deserving family at 220 S. Dudley Street in Americus, GA. The home, built with love, dedication, and the support of our community, will provide a fresh start and a safe place to create lasting memories! The family who will call this house their new home will be identified soon, and we can’t wait to share their story.
Americus building event honors President Jimmy Carter and his family's community impact
Georgia Southwestern State University students, staff bring enthusiasm to last year's build
