Hopping on a bus with 30+ high school students from your community, escaping the familiar bubble of Lake Forest, to assist neighborhoods in need is what a high school work trip entails: the feeling of nervousness and anxiety shortly turning into gratitude and fulfillment.

A common assumption is that service trips are always faith based. When I try to get my friends to attend what I believe is the most amazing week of the year, I often hear, “but I’m not religious,” and that’s okay! The opportunities are endless when it comes to serving communities in need, there are options for everyone. In particular, CROYA hosts an annual work trip week, in which they travel to Macomb, Illinois each year, and help change the lives of others by participating in improvement projects.

The CROYA Work Trip is a non-faith-based work trip that solely focuses on helping others. Attending a service trip is a valuable experience. It allows you to connect with people you wouldn’t expect to bond with, give back to families in need, and most importantly, have fun.

At First Presbyterian Church in Lake Forest, they offer a work trip in addition to CROYA. I have participated in the work trip at First Presbyterian Church for the past two years, and it is the highlight of my summer each year. One notable difference between these two trips is the activities that occur at night. It’s quite simple, First Pres holds an evening service where we connect with God and reflect on the day, we then play an exciting game or sing together around a campfire. Meanwhile, on CROYA’s work trip, participants take turns cooking dinner for the rest of the group; they finish off their night by playing an evening activity.

Junior Piper Bennett describes the impact the CROYA work trip has had on herself. 

“During the CROYA work trip, I feel this mix of energy and purpose. It’s not always easy work, but the laughter, the teamwork, and the memories make it so meaningful,” said Bennett. “After the trip, I come home with this deep sense of gratitude and perspective. It always leaves me more grounded, more appreciative of what I have, and more motivated to keep serving and helping others in need.” 

Bennett’s words capture the essence of a work trip. It’s a rewarding experience that teaches you many elements of what it means to give back. Those words help me reflect on my work trip and all the good that is completed during the few days out of town. Whether it’s fixing a roof for an older couple or building a new ramp for a Veteran, everyone is so grateful for our effort. I appreciate taking a week and connecting with God, while supporting less fortunate families.

At the end of the day, it makes us realize that working hard for a good cause fills our cup, and often makes us feel grateful. In addition to these two fantastic service opportunities, there are numerous other options in the area communities in need!