Six Taft students spent Winter Long Weekend in Puerto Rico planting trees and clearing hiking paths, assisting with construction work on a farm, relocating 700 sunflower plants, sorting and repacking more than 1,000 boxes of food for families in need, and immersing themselves in learning about the rich history, economic challenges, and resilient spirit of the people of Puerto Rico. The group was led by Director of Community Service Kevin Danaher and History Department Head and GLI Director Bri Foley.

“In just four days they worked tirelessly alongside three community-based organizations: Girasolero, an urban farm outside of San Juan; CRESpr (Coalición Ecosistemas Santurcinos, Puerto Rico); and the Food Bank of Puerto Rico," says Foley. "Each task in each location was a testament to their determination and teamwork.”

But the trip was not just about labor, notes Foley: it was about understanding.

“In the evenings, students sat captivated as Gustavo Diaz Skoff, economist and founder of IncentivesPRO, painted a complex picture of Puerto Rico’s economic struggles and opportunities. Yvette M. Núñez Sepúlveda shared the heartbreaking and ongoing reality of Hurricane Maria’s devastation, bringing to life the stories of resilience and loss. The afternoons were a different kind of lesson—one taught on the streets of San Juan. Students learned about Puerto Rico’s history of colonization and explored the vibrant murals of Santurce’s urban art movement, each painting a story of resistance, hope, and cultural pride. In just a few days, our students became part of the community, learning from and working hand-in-hand with those rebuilding their lives, their livelihoods, and the island.”