Oxnard College Sociology Club members gathered together to spend a Saturday helping other community members build a home for a family in need.

Renee Osuna, OC Sociology Club vice president, spearheaded this activity and helped coordinate with a non-profit organization, “Habitat for Humanity.”

“It is so important for everyone, especially students, to take some time to help out their community in whatever way they can,” said Osuna. “I am proud to be part of the Sociology Club and to see all of us come together to make a difference.”

Sociology Club members wrapped tool belts around their hips, grabbed hammers, supplied themselves with nails and went to work on a double project.

Two houses were being built in the remote town of Piru under the blazing hot sun. University students from Pepperdine were also present.

Amaya Silber, OC Scoiology Club secretary, made a full day out of it and brought her husband Zach, and two sons; 18-year-old Jeremiah and 15-year-old Caulin, to the building site location to volunteer.

“We have experienced first hand, how a little assistance from the community can go a long way toward helping a family get through a rough patch,” said Silber. “My family was grateful for the opportunity to pay it forward.”

Silber also explains that volunteering is a great forum for building skills and learning something of the world from a different perspective and gaining a sense of accomplishment. 

“You get the added bonus of knowing you helped, even a little bit, to make life and the future a little better,” said Silber.

According to Habitat for Humanity website, they provide adequate housing by building simple, decent homes in partnership with people in need. The organization has been running in Ventura County since 1983. They have also built over 50 houses and repaired over 500.

The recipients of a remodeled home or even a new home must actively work on site, along with the rest of the volunteers.

The OC Sociology Club has remained active in their community and has received accolades from community organizations countywide.

“The Sociology Club provides opportunities to participate in many community events,” said Silber. “The group participation has helped me overcome any reluctance I might have had to go out on my own.”

Both houses are still being built and Habitat for Humanity is always looking for volunteers. For more information, go to www.habitat.org.