Mikayla Comer
  • Health Sciences
  • Class of 2017
  • Harrisonburg, VA

Mikayla Comer of Harrisonburg participates in Alternative Spring Break trip

2016 Mar 15

Harrisonburg, VA resident Mikayla Comer spent spring break serving others through James Madison University's Alternative Spring Break Program. Comer, a Health Sciences major, scheduled to graduate in 2017, traveled to Chestertown, MD to volunteer with MidAtlantic Border Collie Rescue.

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.

Mid-Atlantic Border Collie Rescue provides a second chance for pups that have experienced a ruff past. This non-profit organization serves Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia, and is run almost entirely by volunteers. Border collies that have been abandoned, neglected, and turned away from other shelters are given a fresh start on this 10 acre haven on the eastern shore of Maryland. This rescue takes the time to get to know each dog individually in order to give them the proper care that they deserve, and to ensure that they find a forever home. Students assisted in this process of rehabilitation and grounds maintenance to make certain that MABCR has the best facility possible. Previous service groups helped MABCR improve the shelter by building a fence around the property, providing care for other animals on the farm (including sheep!), cleaning kennels, making braided dog toys for fundraising, as well as getting to know and love this wonderful breed.

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