Cynthia Kim of Herndon Participates in Alternative Spring Break Trip

2015 Mar 24

Herndon, VA resident Cynthia Kim spent spring break serving others through James Madison University's Alternative Spring Break Program. Kim, a sophomore Biology major, traveled to Kansas City, Missouri to volunteer with Sheffield Place.

The student-led ASB trips took place from March 7-14. Each trip focused on a social issue, such as homelessness, resettlement, environmentalism or community wellness, in a specific region. Almost 300 students embarked on 23 spring break trips around the country and world. The students spent the week living simply, focused on service in their destination community but also on teamwork and reflection within their group.

Sheffield Place is a long-term facility for the women and children of Kansas City struggling with homelessness. They have helped over 700 families on their journey back to self-sufficiency with a special concentration on trauma informed care. During their trip, JMU students interacted with the Sheffield Place families, especially the children. They assisted the agency by helping them around the house and working with children in group activities.

For information about JMU's award winning Alternative Break Program, visit www.jmu.edu/abp.