A lot of schools offer volunteer opportunities that benefit many places, which is great, but often students don’t get to experience real world situations through their service. That’s where Moeller is different. Shantytown is a great opportunity for students to learn what it is like to be unhoused. This event is run by Ms. Stiver and gives students the real experience of how some people live. By doing this every year, students have the opportunity to build a makeshift shelter and live outside for a few days on a strict budget.

Senior Anthony Beal participated in this year’s Shantytown, and The Crusader asked him some questions about his experience.

Crusader: How was the Shantytown experience for you?

Beal: It was a very fun experience, and I learned a lot. I would recommend it for others to try next year.

Crusader: What have you learned by doing Shantytown?

Beal: Homelessness is not a joke, and it can happen to anyone at any time.

Crusader: How long did It take you to make your shelter? Who had the best one?

Beal: It took me two hours to build my makeshift shelter. I spent more time on mine than others because I wanted it to be ready for the cold weather and rain. I think I had the best shelter.

Crusader: What would you say to people if they wanted to do it next year?

Beal: Take time on building your shelter; that is very important. Bring lots of layers as it still gets cold at night. Bring a tarp if rain is in the forecast. Most importantly, come open to what the experience has to teach. I never really thought much about what it might be like to not have a home, and this experience really opened my eyes.

Overall, this is a great event that Moeller does every year in the spring and a lot of past participants recommend the experience. Thank you, Anthony Beal, for sharing your time with The Crusader!

If you are interested in learning more about Shantytown for next year, reach out to Ms. Stiver.

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