Throughout the semester, Dunwoody students were tasked with redesigning furniture donated by Bridging, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing household items to families facing housing instability.
Throughout the semester, Dunwoody students were tasked with redesigning furniture donated by Bridging, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing household items to families facing housing instability. Credit: Courtesy of Dunwoody College of Technology

In a groundbreaking initiative at Dunwoody College of Technology, students are reshaping the landscape of community engagement through a unique course called “Community Connect.” Created by instructor Alonso Sierralta, the program blends education with hands-on community service, offering students a transformative learning experience while making a tangible impact on those in need.

Inspired by a personal connection with Bridging, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing household items to families facing housing instability, Sierralta envisioned a course that would not only teach practical skills but also instill a sense of empathy and social responsibility in his students.

“When we see furniture, we don’t often see how it was made,” Sierralta explained. “The idea is for students to understand the mechanics behind design and construction, while also contributing to the community in a meaningful way.”

Student Courtney Berghorst shared her motivation for enrolling in the course: “I wanted to do something that had to do with the community and help out.”

The redesigned furniture pieces, created with meticulous care and creativity, find their way to families in need through Bridging. “I hope those pieces of furniture get taken by a good family, which I think would be wonderful,” Sierralta shared. “They are strong, they are good pieces, and there’s a great message behind the whole experience.”

Instructor Alonso Sierralta, far right, envisioned a course that would not only teach practical skills but also instill a sense of empathy and social responsibility in his students.
Instructor Alonso Sierralta, right, envisioned a course that would not only teach practical skills but also instill a sense of empathy and social responsibility in his students. Credit: Courtesy of Dunwoody College of Technology

Berghorst also emphasized the significance of where their work goes. “It’s really great that people who don’t have a lot and are moving into a new place can go to Bridging and pick out something that fits their aesthetic, making their home feel personal and welcoming without having to spend a ton of money.”

Jennifer Baker, Bridging’s marketing manager, shared insights on the nonprofit’s impact on families and the importance of programs like Community Connect. “It can be hard to define the impact the project has on a family because, yes, technically we’re just giving out furniture. But you know, a bed can be a lot more than just a bed to somebody. It’s a place to rest, its safety, its comfort. A dining room table is more than a piece of furniture; it’s a place for a family to gather, where kids can do their homework. Furniture can really make a house a home and signify a new chapter for families transitioning out of housing instability.”

Reflecting on the broader impact of the project, Sierralta echoed Baker on the impact the furniture has on families. “These pieces are more than just furniture; they symbolize hope and stability. Our students’ efforts help families create homes that reflect their dignity and aspirations, and that’s incredibly rewarding for everyone involved.”

Baker recalled one family who came to Bridging before Christmas with her two young kids and was able to leave with a whole household setup including couches, dishes, a table, and beds.

“She sent us photos a few days later of her kids jumping on the couch next to the Christmas tree, just so happy to have a place they could finally call home,” Baker said.

Bringing old furniture back to life

Throughout the semester, students like Berghorst embarked on a journey of creativity and collaboration, tasked with redesigning furniture donated by Bridging. From disassembling old sewing machines to repurposing discarded bookshelves, each project was a testament to the students’ creativity and dedication to making a difference.

Student Courtney Berghorst, far right: “I wanted to do something that had to do with the community and help out.”
Student Courtney Berghorst, far right: “I wanted to do something that had to do with the community and help out.” Credit: Courtesy of Dunwoody College of Technology

“We took that just because we thought it’d be interesting to take it apart and see what we had to work with,” Berghorst recounted, describing her team’s transformation of an old sewing machine into a modern side table.

Baker also praised the Community Connect class’s efforts. “I love that they’ve taken on the task of giving new life to pieces of furniture. It’s fantastic to see this level of care for the community. Additionally, we are proud of the environmental impact – keeping 14 million pounds out of landfills every year. Taking furniture that might be borderline usable and transforming it into something truly beautiful shows a wonderful commitment to the community.”

For Berghorst and her peers, the experience was not just about learning new skills but also about understanding the profound impact of community service. “It feels awesome. It makes me want to do more.”

Maddie Gonzales

Maddie is an audience development and reporting intern with MinnPost.