Catawba Valley Community College students in Emily Whiteley’s General Biology class have been taking what they learn in the classroom out into the field this semester.
They are involved in several long-term service learning projects focused on local parks, helping remove invasive plants and reintroduce native flora.
The projects have a dual purpose, besides helping the local parks and green spaces stay healthy, they allow the CVCC students an opportunity to take ownership of their community.
“It feels good to be part of helping to change things. I feel like we’re actually making a difference,” CVCC student and Challenger Early College High senior Ally Dula said. “This is our home.”