Diamond Blathers of Richmond participates in Alternative Spring Break trip

2016 Mar 15

Richmond, VA resident Diamond Blathers spent spring break serving others through James Madison University's Alternative Spring Break Program. Blathers, a Sociology major, scheduled to graduate in 2016, traveled to Los Angeles, CA to volunteer with Midnight Mission.

The student-led ASB trips took place from March 5-12. Each trip focused on a social issue, such as homelessness, resettlement, environmentalism or community wellness, in a specific region. Almost 250 students embarked on 25 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.

(Los Angeles and Midnight) Mission Possible! This break focused on serving the homeless population in Los Angeles, specifically within Skid Row. Break participants were immersed into the city by helping to serve the community. Volunteer activities included but were not limited to helping with meal service, special event preparation, sorting clothing and assisting in distribution, and making food boxes and hygiene kits. Volunteers at these two agencies also are able to interact with children by tutoring all age groups and grade levels. This break allowed its participants to gain a richer knowledge on the realities of homelessness. By observing the power of privilege and how it often works against those in this community, participants left the break with a greater understanding of social inequities. Their goal was to call attention to the need for more active citizens to address the issue of homelessness and serve the homeless population in the Los Angeles area and communities nationwide.

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