For the third year in a row, a team of UBC Thunderbirds athletes, coaches and administrators are in El Salvador to build a home as part of the Habitat for Humanity Global Village volunteer program.

The following is the team's second update, courtesy of Robert Ragotte (nordic skiing) and Julie Sheppard (women's rowing).

SAN VINCENTE, El Salvador - Greetings from El Salvador!

We were delayed in writing this blog entry due to an unexpected and prolonged power outage, which we combated with candles and card games. This trip countines to be a smashing sucess! In terms of construction, on Wednesday we went vertical, as Christi would say, as we added in the rebar supports for the walls.

The next day, also the hottest, consisted of hard labour as we finished the foundation of the home. We now appreciate the luxury of cement mixers because mixing and pouring cement by hand strained many backs and shoulders. Nevertheless, it was a character building experience and we are proud of the progress we have made.

We have had time to mingle with many San Vincente locals. While the youth have showed a strong affinity for Jaime, Stephanie befriended an 88 year-old man who is among our watchful audience - they seem to enjoy our struggles and sensitive skin.

On our lunch break we visited the day care across the street, bringing them food and toys. In our time off we, enjoyed the local water park, which was a natural pool with a waterfall. We hit the courts and challanged the locals to a game of basketball (those who lack basketball coordination opted for a jog around San Vincente). Thanks to the contribution of Tommy, Deb and Jaime we came out on top!  Go 'Birds go!