Chelsea Bruno of Somers Point, NJ Spends Thanksgiving Break Serving Others

2012 Nov 28

Chelsea Bruno of Somers Point, NJ spent Thanksgiving break serving others as part of JMU's Alternative Thanksgiving Break program. Instead of returning home to family and friends and celebrating over turkey and mashed potatoes, Bruno joined a group of eight students who worked with New England Center for Homeless Veterans in Boston, Mass.

The Alternative Thanksgiving breaks planned by student leaders took place during JMU's Nov. 17–25 break. The Boston trip focused on providing assistance to veterans who are facing homelessness. While in Boston at NECHV, the JMU students worked in their store, assisted in the kitchen and interacted and socialized with the veterans. Students learned about the strength and hardships of being a veteran.

JMU'S award-winning Alternative Break Program provides learning opportunities for students outside of the classroom where they focus on social issues by interacting with a local nonprofit, living simply and reflecting on the critical issues faced by the people they serve. Trips occur at Thanksgiving, spring break, in May and on various weekends throughout the year.

For information about JMU's Alternative Break Program, including an interactive map showcasing past service trips and Community Service-Learning, check http://www.jmu.edu/service/.

Bruno is majoring in interdisciplinary liberal studies and is scheduled to graduate in 2013.