ReStore started 2024 with a new collaboration with a class from the University of St. Thomas. During the spring semester, Professor Yayu Feng’s Digital Media for the Common Good class worked with the ReStore team for their senior project.

The Digital Media for the Common Good course is supported by St. Thomas’ Center for the Common Good. The Center for Common Good “empowers St. Thomas students, staff and faculty to become transformational partners with community organizations to advance the common good within local, national and global communities.” Professor Yayu Feng teaches the course as a capstone for seniors majoring in media production and design. In addition to exploring ethical principles in the media industry, the class offers practical experience in a real-world setting. "Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity was a wonderful partner. Students explored how their media skills can advocate for equity and sustainability," said Professor Feng. "Personally, I am thankful for the opportunity to engage with the mission and values of Twin Cities Habitat. On our first visit to ReStore, I even purchased new items at a price much lower than retail, and I'm delighted to know my purchase helps fund house-building efforts."

The partnership started with a meeting at the Minneapolis ReStore, where the group learned about ReStore’s mission and work to brainstorm project ideas and ask questions. Then, the ReStore team shared feedback and priorities to finalize the project focuses. Throughout the rest of the semester, the senior students worked to draft and create videos, graphics, templates, and photos to support ReStore’s mission.

“It has been an absolute pleasure to work with the ReStore team over the last few months,” said Sophie Camilli, student and class project manager. “The experience was formational because while I hadn’t even heard of ReStore [before this class], it quickly became clear how valuable they are to the community and in supporting Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity.”

To highlight the connection between ReStore and Twin Cities Habitat, students created a video feature about Chuck, a volunteer. Chuck volunteers at both ReStore and the build site. Visiting the build site and seeing a team of varying ages working together was a highlight for many students. It even inspired Sophie to volunteer this summer and learn new skills, contribute to the community, and meet new people. Sophie said, “I’m glad we got to use our skills to produce media that will hopefully appeal to new audiences and aid in ReStore’s mission.” 

Watch Chuck's Volunteer Spotlight Video

Thank you, Digital Media for the Common Good students, Professor Feng, and the Center for Common Good staff, for this practical and creative partnership!