West Virginia University students have a special opportunity to make new friends, earn course credit and help a local community in southern West Virginia.

WVU s Center for Civic Engagement is inviting students to spend part of their Thanksgiving break at Bethlehem Farm in Pence Springs, Summers County. Participants will leave Sunday, Nov. 18, and return on Wednesday, Nov. 21in time for Thanksgiving.

Its going to be a fun trip; were staying on the farm,said Brett White, who will be accompanying the group.Its an excellent opportunity especially for students who are from out of state to see another part of West Virginia.

Activities will revolve around the farm and Pence Springs community.

Students will enjoy Bethlehem Farms peaceful, natural surroundings,said Kimberly Colebank, Center for Civic Engagement director and trip leader.This four-day trip is all about service and simplicity.

Service projects may include working in the community garden, doing chores around the farm, working with neighbors on building repairs and participating in community development projects. Participants will actively engage in personal reflection and group discussion each evening as part of their service-learning experience.

Full-time students will receive a one-hour service-learning credit and volunteer hours. The cost is $300 and includes transportation (University bus service), lodging, meals and materials.

Early registration is encouraged. To sign up online, go tohttp://simpleforms.scripts.wvu.edu/sf/alternatebreak/.

Center for Civic Engagement on the Net:http://cce.wvu.edu/