The Dartmouth YMCA received six picnic tables, built by Greater New Bedford Vocational-Technical High School students on April 3.

The project was part of Skills USA, a program that teaches kids work-based skills with nationwide programs, events, and compeitions, explained Teacher Stacey Martin.

"It's a learning curve. We have different students from medical, dental, and carpentry all learning a new skill," said Martin.

The 30 student volunteers made a total of 16 picnic tables and five metal benches to be divvied up between the YMCA, the New Bedford Community Boating Center, and Hoppy's Landing in Fairhaven, said Martin.

The students wanted to help facilities that host summer programs, explained Martin. She said the three locations were picked because they represent the three hometowns of students.

The students work for an hour once a week, assembling and painting the furniture. Martin said she'd like this to be a cumulative project, adding something new to each of the three locations next year that would compliment the school's contributions.

Last year, students collected food and supplies for a no-kill animal shelter.