Spring Break with a Purpose: Collegiate Challenge is back!

For many college students, spring break means sunshine and relaxation—but for those participating in Habitat's Collegiate Challenge, it’s a time to make a lasting impact. This March, Habitat Forsyth is excited to welcome students from across the country who have chosen to spend their break building homes and hope in our community.

Throughout the month, these dedicated volunteers will trade textbooks for tool belts, working alongside future Habitat homeowners and local volunteers. Their hard work not only helps construct safe, affordable housing but also fosters a lifelong passion for service and community engagement.

Collegiate Challenge is more than just a week of volunteering—it’s an experience that changes lives. Many students return year after year, inspired by the difference they can make. Their energy, commitment, and generosity are invaluable to our mission, and we couldn’t be more grateful for their support.

Aza's Journey: From Renting Struggles to Home Sweet Home

Aza decided to apply to the Habitat program in 2021 after growing weary of renting. When she needs repairs at her current apartment, the landlord often is slow to respond, she said. “I went three months without a stove one time. I’m paying for some things myself just to get them done, and I figured for what I am paying, I might as well own a home.”

Aza’s journey to homeownership was challenging in the beginning. She had a physically demanding job in a warehouse and her shifts conflicted with Habitat classes. She was grateful that Habitat allowed her to do some coursework at home to earn class hours. She now works as a phlebotomist for Novant Health and would like to continue her education to become a licensed practical nurse.

Thanks to Habitat’s home repair classes, Aza will now be able to fix some things around her new home on her own. “Habitat really is a great program. If you want to own a home of your own and can’t afford to buy one (in the real estate market), you should definitely look at Habitat.”



She views her new home as a fresh start for herself, her 5-year-old daughter and 10-year-old stepson. She is especially happy they will have a yard where they can run and play. “I will have a home to pass down to them when I pay it off, and all they will have to worry about is the property taxes. I am happy I did this for myself and for them.”