Aug. 28, 2008

DEKALB, Ill.-The Northern Illinois University men's golf team spent Saturday Aug. 23 working with Habitat for Humanity.

The Huskie golfers spent the day priming and painting Habitat for Humanity's project house in Elgin, Ill. Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry. Founded in 1976, Habitat for Humanity seeks to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world, and to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action.

"I had helped on that house back in June for a few days," said NIU head men's golf coach John Cleary said. "I've always wanted to get the guys involved in Habitat for Humanity because I've been doing projects for them since 2000. Also, it's getting the kids out of their comfort zone, getting the guys to do something they wouldn't normally do. It's also helping out a family in need."

While the Huskies were helping the community, they were also earning points in the Northern Illinois/Resource Bank Challenge of Champions. The Challenge is a department-wide game played by all sports teams, cheerleaders and Huskie interns that encompasses the NCAA CHAMPS/Life Skills five commitment areas: academic excellence, athletic excellence, personal development, career development and service. Teams earn points by attending and participating in activities that reflect these goals.

Huskie Golfers Chip in at Elgin's Habitat for Humanity