March 8, 2017

SVSU Alternative Breaks sends students to volunteer at seven locations across U.S.

Seventy-seven Saginaw Valley State University students are spending their spring break traveling to seven states in order to lend a helping hand as part of the Alternative Breaks program. 

Alternative Breaks is a student-run organization that sends its members to locations across the U.S. to participate in a range of volunteer opportunities during regular school break periods.

SVSU students are on spring break from March 6-12. Divided into seven teams, each group has traveled to a different U.S. city to aid nonprofit organizations.

One Heartland, a nonprofit organization in Willow River, Minnesota, is benefiting from SVSU's Alternative Breaks. Students are working with the group to aid in the development of a safer LGBTQ+ community.

Champion Athletes of the Ozarks, another organization impacted by the Alternative Breaks program, is located in Springfield, Missouri. The group's aim is to help children and adults with disabilities develop life skills while growing their confidence.

Grace Point Alliance, an organization in Buffalo, New York, also is receiving help from SVSU students. They are assisting Grace Point Alliance in helping the homeless community through research and resource distribution.

A Wider Circle in Silver Spring, Maryland is a nonprofit focused on ending poverty by providing supplies as well as a support system for the impoverished. Students are providing assistance in distributing home essentials donated by the community.

In Morgantown, West Virginia, the SVSU Alternative Breaks team is aiding in building affordable homes for local residents. The students are working with Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit that builds home for people in need.

Boston, Massachusetts is home to Community Servings Food Heals, a nonprofit that provides food to people ailed by a critical or chronic illness. Students are helping the organization prepare and package meals tailored to the needs of those suffering from illness.

The Center for Ethical Living and Social Justice Renewal, located in New Orleans, works to promote social, economic, racial, and environmental justice. SVSU Alternative Breaks students are assisting with in-service education and community involvement. They also are aiding in tornado cleanup and home restoration.