Emily Somma of Sparta, NJ Spent Spring Break Serving Others

2013 Mar 11

Emily Somma of Sparta spent spring break serving others as part of James Madison University's Alternative Spring Break program. Somma, a junior international affairs major, traveled to Key West, Fla. to volunteer at Seabase.

Sea Base, a facility owned and operated by the Boy Scouts of America, is used to educate Scouts and others about preserving the ecosystems of the Florida Keys. While in Florida, the JMU students cleaned the shoreline, helped build boardwalks, cleared trails and many other things to help Sea Base prepare for their programs. The students camped on the beach during their week’s stay.

The student-led ASB trips, scheduled for March 2-9, are each based on a social issue such as homelessness, environmentalism or community wellness. Over 300 students embarked on 30 spring break trips around the country and world. The students spend the week living simply, focused on service in their destination community but also on teamwork and reflection within their group.

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