Kelly Burke of Emporia Participates in Alternative Spring Break Trip

2014 Apr 14

Emporia , VA resident Kelly Burke spent spring break serving others through James Madison University's Alternative Spring Break Program. Burke, a junior biology major traveled to West Milford, N.J. to volunteer with Camp Vacamas.

The student-led ASB trips took place from March 8-15. Each trip focused on a social issue, such as homelessness, resettlement, environmentalism or community wellness, in a specific region. Almost 300 students embarked on 30 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.

Camp Vacamas is a summer day camp that encourages its campers to set new goals and develop self-confidence, responsibility and leadership. The JMU students helped to maintain the camp by painting and cleaning. In the afternoon, the students worked with kids at an after school program in the Bronx.

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