Our trip to Williamson is an opportunity to see global issues relatively close to home. We’re going to connect to a community that in many respects is not too different from our existing experiences, but shows a side of both struggle and resilience that may be less familiar to many. The community of Williamson will hopefully both be inspiring and sobering, as we confront the real challenges that so many face, even in a country as advanced as ours.
Important Dates and Logistics to know
Weekend travel: The trip begins on a Saturday (March 6) and ends on a Saturday (March 13), so students should plan accordingly for travel at both ends of the week.
March weather in West Virginia: Appalachia in early March can be cold and unpredictable. Students should pack layers and be prepared for variable conditions, including rain or cold temperatures during outdoor activities.
Physical activity expectations: The itinerary includes a walking tour of Williamson upon arrival, a hike on the Hatfield and McCoy Trail, hands-on service work at a community garden and a family farm, and a tour of Matewan. Students should be prepared for moderate physical activity throughout the week.
Pre-departure meetings: This experience will include 4-5 pre-departure meetings in Spring 2027 and one meeting after we return. Our pre-departure meetings will help participants to:
Understand the economic, social, and cultural context of Appalachia
Examine the impact of global economic transformation on people and land in the region
Learn ethical practices for documenting, engaging with, and advocating for communities
Review travel logistics, health and safety expectations, packing guidance, group norms, and expectations for respectful engagement with local communities and cultural spaces.
Arrival walking tour of Williamson
Introduction to the Williamson Health & Wellness Center (WHWC) and its approach to community well-being
Hike along the Hatfield and McCoy Trail
Service work at the Williamson Community Garden
Community Tuesday Night Track at Belfry High School
Service with ABLE Families
Tour of Matewan and visit to the Mining Museum
Visit to an opioid treatment center
Group bowling, bonfire, and nightly group discussions and reflections
No passport is required — Williamson, West Virginia is a domestic U.S. destination, so no passport, visa, or international travel documentation is needed. This trip involves domestic ground transportation only. Students can expect travel by chartered bus to and from West Virginia. Williamson is in the same time zone as Collegeville.
Lodging will be in a hotel with students in shared rooms.
The program includes moderate physical demands throughout the week. Students should be prepared for hands-on service work at a community garden and a family farm, a trail walk on the Hatfield and McCoy Trail, walking tours of Williamson and Matewan, and general movement between sites each day. March weather in Appalachia can be cold and variable, so appropriate clothing and footwear are important. The program is designed to push participants beyond their comfort zones — not just physically, but emotionally and intellectually — and group leaders and staff from our provider will be on hand to support participants throughout. Local site coordinators keep careful record of available medical care and can connect participants to health services whenever necessary.
Each day of the program is structured and busy, with a mix of service, cultural activities, recreational exploration, and group reflection. Independent time is limited — the schedule runs from breakfast through evening group discussions each day. When free time does arise, students are encouraged to explore Williamson and its surroundings with curiosity and an open mind, keeping in mind that the community has a distinct culture, history, and pace of life that may differ from what many students are used to.
Breakfast will be provided at the lodging each day. Lunch and dinner are offered mostly at local restaurants, though on particularly busy days or days with activities outside of town, participants will prepare their own brown bag lunches from ingredients provided by the program. On at least one day, lunch will be shared with the Starr family at their farm. Dietary restrictions are collected through the provider’s participation information form, and participants will generally have the opportunity to either prepare their own food or order for themselves at restaurants.
English is the primary language, and no additional language preparation is needed.
