Happy volunteers use a gas auger as they dig footers for a disabled veteran’s wheelchair ramp. Photo: Diocese of Central Pennsylvania

[Diocese of Central Pennsylvania] The Rev. Veronica Chappell, rector of Trinity Episcopal Church in Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania, is both proud and exhausted after coordinating the second “Transform Jersey Shore” project for her community. Her church was the command center for a weeklong project that involved 14 churches and 83 volunteers.

In its second year, the project is sponsored by an ecumenical group from area churches and organizations whose goal is to show and share the love of Christ by forming relationships with neighbors in the communities.

The Rev. Veronica Donohue Chappell sends volunteers out to work after an early morning breakfast at Trinity. Photo: Diocese of Central Pennsylvania

“We completed 29 projects this year,” said Chappell. The projects included cleaning, home repairs, building handicap access ramps, demolition, drywall, yard work, painting and carpentry. Volunteers came from the surrounding church community and included United Methodist, Presbyterian, Wesleyan and Assemblies of God churches. The local Rotary joined in as well, and 12 youth volunteered in order to fulfill their senior community service project for Jersey Shore Area High School. “The youth were incredible,” said Chappell.

Volunteers serve in whatever capacity they are able, working one or more days or the whole week. Work days start with breakfast at 7 a.m., then on to the job sites until approximately 4 p.m. Lunch is delivered to each job site. One evening, a festive “thank you” dinner is served.

“We welcome participants from all areas,” said Chappell.“This year, 12 people from Lancaster slept on our church floor!” And she is already planning on next year’s project, set for Aug. 7-11, 2017.