Students everywhere, and now at San Luis Obispo High School, are taking part in volunteer programs that improve our world. These programs are community service trips to other countries that not only help those who are in need but also inspire our students.

During these trips, students build schools and homes, teach English, provide sanitary water sources, and care for the wildlife and ecosystems. They gain community service hours as well as friendships and the opportunity to explore new cultures.

“I think that people who can afford to pay a fee…can find something that they can feel passionate about, give back to the community, and have a resume building experience,” said College and Career Center Adviser Colleen Martin.

It is understood that some people cannot afford to pay the fee that some of these trips cost. This should not stop the drive you may have to help others, for there are many other options. Although you may not be traveling to the Fijian Islands or Costa Rica it is simple to help out here in San Luis Obispo by volunteering at a homeless shelter or cleaning up our beaches.

“I wanted to help and go surfing… I thought it would be really cool to experience the culture,” said senior Anna Lippold, who traveled through Rustic Pathways to Costa Rica over the summer for a community service trip.

There are a variety of activities available on the trips after completing the work for the day. Along with being able to skydive and snorkel, students are able to broaden their outlook on the world and stay in places that some don’t even know of.

“In San Luis Obispo, we live in such a bubble and were cut off from real world experiences, so when somebody has the opportunity to live with families that have nothing, it makes such a difference on how you view the world,” said senior Kelsey Shetler.