Gabrielle Rounbehler of Philadelphia Participates in Alternative Spring Break Trip

2015 Mar 24

Philadelphia, PA resident Gabrielle Rounbehler spent spring break serving others through James Madison University's Alternative Spring Break Program. Rounbehler, a seniorEnglish major, traveled to Treasure Beach, Jamaica to volunteer with VIJON .

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.

The trip focused on providing assistance to the Jamaican school systems. JMU students provided individual attention to students, assisted in facility upkeep and promoted community wellness while helping to providing a fun and enriching environment for young people to learn and grow. Students fully immersed themselves in the local culture and had the opportunity to partake in the traditional dance, food, arts and philosophy of the Jamaican people. 

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