Sand, water and lounging about - that's what many students imagine when thinking of their spring break activities. Fun, community and volunteering - that's what students could experience this spring break with the university's Alternative Spring Break experience.
The 2013 Alternative Spring Break will take place the week of March 9-16 during the University's scheduled spring break.
This year, students have two ASB options: a destination trip servicing communities in Atlanta, Ga. or a "staycation" here in Memphis.
Sponsored by Students Advocating Service and the Office of Student Leadership and Involvement, ASB is a six-day community service experience offering students the chance to commit the week to service, cultural immersion and personal growth. Volunteers spend the week working with nonprofit agencies and the people they serve while also discovering different parts of the country or city.
Service that students perform will match the program's mission, "Building Tomorrow One Break at a Time."
The service done in Atlanta will primarily focus on poverty, homelessness and various aspects related to the two.
Choosing to be a part of the destination trip to Atlanta gives students the opportunity to travel with a purpose beyond the usual scope of spring break partying. ASB also offers free time for students to explore the city outside of the service activities. Volunteers will all stay together in a location allowing for greater fellowship and friendship building.
In Memphis, the service will be more broadly based, focusing on various issues around the city. The program hopes to offer university students a chance to experience the city in a new way.
"Not only is it a great way to serve the community you live in, but we also try to add some food and sight seeing," said Angie Norwood, coordinator of student activities.
The Office of Student Involvement says that some of the top reasons to get involved in Alternative Spring Break include the opportunity to "enhance social responsibility, learn about world issues, fill the needs of the community and have fun."
"We try to incorporate something [students] have never done before and that a lot never get to do," Norwood said.
Students are chosen to participate through a quick application and interview process. Accepted applicants for the Atlanta destination trip will be required to pay a $75 program fee to help cover trip expenses.
There is no fee for the Memphis activities.
More information and applications are available online at Memphis.edu/service.
Applications should be turned in to the Emerging Leader's Program office, room 211 of the University Center by this Friday, Feb. 15 by 4:30 p.m.
