Fourteen local volunteers head to Gulf Coast to participate in United Way’s Alternative Spring Break 2007
Press Release
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Patricia A. Ellis, 313-226-9484 or cell, 313-410-3417
Megan Bracket, 313-226-9409 or pager, 313-840-4321
DETROIT – Fourteen Detroit area volunteers, including college students and professionals, will give at least a week of their time volunteering for United Way’s Alternative Spring Break 2007, sponsored by FedEx and GameStop/EB Games. MTV is serving as the media partner, promoting the program and filming a documentary called “The Amazing Break,” which will air the weekend of March 23. United Way for Southeastern Michigan will be taking this enthusiastic group of volunteers to Lake Charles, Louisiana, March 10 –17, to help in the long-term recovery efforts to rebuild the Gulf Coast area still devastated by the 2005 hurricanes. In total, approximately 300 college students from across the country will be participating in Alternative Spring Break during March.
The goal of the Alternative Spring Break is to inspire young people to engage in community service during their spring vacations. This year’s volunteers will clear debris, restore local schools and nature trails, and repair some of the more than 1,700 homes that still have blue roofs, which are temporary FEMA tarps that prevent further damage. United Way of Southwest Louisiana will provide volunteer housing and project support.
“United Way’s Alternative Spring Break is a great way to engage young people to make a lasting difference in our country,” said Michael J. Brennan, president and CEO, United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “Families affected by the 2005 hurricanes are still recovering from the devastation. The progress that will be made by the collective action of these committed volunteers, and the lives they will touch through their efforts, is an amazing example of what can be done when we work together.”
This is the second year for Alternative Spring Break. In 2006, United Way of America partnered with thinkMTV to create Storm Corps to help those directly affected by the 2005 hurricanes. Nearly 100 volunteers traveled to Biloxi, Miss., and Foley, Ala. to remove debris from yards, repair porches and roofs, tear out walls and rebuild a youth recreation center.
“I never knew I could learn to do so many things to help make a big difference,” said Brian Sawyer, who participated in last year’s efforts and will be returning this year as a team leader. “It was the greatest experience and the most inspiring of my life. I learned that anyone with determination and passion to make a difference can. This year I hope to gain the commitment of other young adults like me to come back motivated to build our own communities stronger.”
Brennan added, “You don’t have to go far to make a difference. There are lots of opportunities to give back right here at home. What you get in return is the priceless gift of helping others.”
To learn more about year-round volunteer opportunities, go to http://www.uwsem.org/ and click “Get Involved” or call United Way’s 2-1-1.
United Way’s Alternative Spring Break 2007 local volunteer profiles
Kawthar Ali, 22, of Dearborn Heights, is a senior at the University of Michigan - Dearborn studying Elementary Education. Ali is committed to making a difference both in and outside of her community and enjoys working in a diverse environment. Ali was born in Tehran, Iran but spent her early years in Damascus, Syria. She moved to the United States with her family when she was twelve. She was intrigued with Alternative Spring Break because it was different than other volunteer projects she’s participated in.
“For one week, I won’t be thinking about myself or school; I’ll be thinking about those who are homeless or in need of help,” said Ali. “I don’t want to sit at home saying ‘I wish I can help those people effected by the hurricanes’ but instead I’m giving up everything for a week just so I can help build or paint a home and bring a smile to someone’s face.”
A 2003 graduate of Crestwood High School, Ali volunteered through Key Club and the National Honor Society. She is a recipient of the University of Michigan Dearborn’s Distinguished Student Leader Scholarship and a member of Volunteer Dearborn.
“I’m going into education and this experience is a perfect way to encourage young students to give more than they receive, and to be compassionate about others.”
Natalie Brookins, 22, of Dearborn, is also a senior at the University of Michigan - Dearborn. She is completing her degree in criminal justice and psychology, and plans to go on to law school. Currently, Brookins is a law clerk for Bodman, LLP.
A graduate of Dearborn High School, Brookins is the first person in her family to go to college. She received an Associate’s Degree in criminal justice from Henry Ford Community College before transferring to the University of Michigan - Dearborn. Brookins volunteers with Volunteer Dearborn and the Golden Key International Honor Society, open to juniors and seniors in the top fifteen percent of their class.
Brookin’s said that one of her favorite volunteer projects was planting trees on Make a Difference Day.
“Who knew that spending all day outside, engaging in physical labor, in awful weather, could be so much fun and rewarding!”
Randy Dillard, of Detroit, will serve as a Team Leaders for Alternative Spring Break 2007. Motivating and inspiring others to do their best comes natural for Dillard, a student activities supervisor in the Office of Student Activities, at the University of Michigan - Dearborn. Dillard was born in Golf Coast area, spent his early childhood in Detroit and then moved to California, where he received a Masters degree in counseling and his undergraduate degree in psychology.
Dillard came to the University of Michigan - Dearborn about two-and-a-half years ago. In his position, he is constantly fostering student learning and personal development – encouraging educationally purposeful activities, both inside and outside of the academic classroom. He helped create the Volunteer Dearborn project at the university, to connect students, faculty and staff volunteers to numerous projects benefiting community agencies and the individuals they serve. He also worked in close partnership with United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s George W. Romney Volunteer Center to help sustain the volunteer initiative at the university.
“The Alternative Spring Break program coordinated by United Way of America and MTV, in my opinion, is something that could not be passed up,” said Dillard, who encourage his students to apply for the experience.
“We have a small but committed group of individuals who are ready and willing to make a difference.”
Brad Frost, 25, of Detroit, has been selected as a member of the management team for Alternative Spring Break 2007. He helped design United Way of America’s first Alternative Spring Break last year while he was a community fellow with the organization. He also participated with other United Way of America community fellows in 2005 in a learning and development program that took him to the Gulf Coast to assist the local United Way in Jackson, Miss., immediately following Hurricane Katrina.
Currently, Frost is a manager of Community Investment Strategies at United Way for Southeastern Michigan. He is tasked with planning and implementing the organization’s business model of community impact. Frost received his bachelor’s degree from University of Mary Washington.
Frost is committed to making a difference in the world. He has studied at the School of International Training in Geneva, Switzerland, and Durban, South Africa. He also held various roles with Americorps National Civilian Community Corps in the western United States, assisting with unmet human needs, education, environment, and public safety. While in college, Frost volunteered on two Alternative Spring Breaks with Habitat for Humanity as both a team member and team leader.
"It's critical for all of us to understand the power of experiential learning through volunteer service,” he said. “For youth, programs like United Way’s Alternative Spring Break help bridge passion to action, and that pays dividends for a lifetime."
Crystal Grammatico, 23, of St. Clair Shores, has nonstop energy. Currently, she is attending graduate school at Wayne State University working towards a Masters in Social Work. Grammatico received her undergraduate degree in psychology and interpersonal communication from Central Michigan University. She is a 2001 graduate of Lakeview High School.
Grammatico is an intern at Warren Woods Middle School working with special education and general education students. She loves working with the children and finds their honesty and innocence inspiring. She also works part-time as a leasing assistant for Roseville Automotive Group.
According to Grammatico, being from a close Italian family and experiencing all that families go through has helped shape her life.
“My mother is a breast cancer survivor. My father passed away two years ago after a long illness. Seeing my father ill for so many years made me see life from a different perspective. It made me appreciate the people who care and are willing to help along the way. I think that’s what compelled me to be a social worker and do something that will make a difference in people’s lives.”
Volunteering comes natural for Grammatico, so giving a week of her time with Alternative Spring Break is something she is really excited about. Although she’s not sure what to expect, she has an open mind to new experiences and wants to do all that she can to help those in Lake Charles, La.
“When I get back, I hope to educate others about what we’ve done and let them know that there are people who are in need out there, and any little thing we do can help make a difference.”
Brandon Hannah, 24, of Westland, is a foster care case manager with Catholic Social Services. He received a degree in Social Work from Madonna University in 2005 and works closely with children, which he loves. He’s especially happy that he and his wife are expecting their first child in July.
Hannah feels a special connection with those impacted by the hurricane’s devastation, since he has family living in New Orleans and the Louisiana area.
“Everyone know somebody who was affected by the hurricanes,” said Hannah. “We cannot forget that this is a long-term project to help rebuild the lives of many who were displaced during the hurricane. I feel that everyone can help in some way and Alternative Spring Break is my opportunity to give back.”
This is not the first time Hannah volunteered out of state. He volunteered in Morelia, Mexico for two weeks while in college, working in a soup kitchen and providing play therapy at the local Children’s Hospital.
“I would hope that if anything happened to me, someone would be there to help. I would like to do the same.”
Adam Harris, 20, of Lathrup Village, is a junior at the University of Michigan - Dearborn. He decided to apply for Alternative Spring Break because he knows there is always someone who needs a helping hand, and felt that this was a great way to offer that help.
“I hope to gain a sense of contribution to my community [through ASB],” said Harris. “It is very important for me to be a humanitarian and help in any way I can.”
Harris is studying business administration, with a focus on management and supply chain management. He is active in his university as a Varsity basketball player as well as being involved with the Black Student Union and Student Athletic Advisory Council. He was also the head organizer of the UM-Dearborn Basketball Camp.
Off campus, he is committed to helping youth learn and appreciate sports by serving as a youth basketball coach in Southfield, a Junior NBA and WNBA Basketball Coach, and an assistant teacher of career planning for the Detroit Lions Rookie Camp.
Theresa Kowalczyk, 24, of Dearborn, is a senior at University of Michigan - Dearborn. She learned about Alternative Spring Break from UM-D’s newspaper and was interested in the opportunity.
“I think it will be a world-altering experience…I’m hoping it will give me some perspective on life and be an opportunity to have fun while doing so.”
Theresa is currently working on her teaching certificate and works at Jumpstart, where she started as a volunteer. There she works with children to develop their literacy and social skills. She has also volunteered with the Dearborn Animal Shelter and currently works at Starbucks.
Kristen Lewis, 20, of Westland, is a sophomore at University of Michigan - Dearborn. Kristen is excited to join United Way for this year’s Alternative Spring Break because she has always wanted to make a difference in someone’s life.
“United Way is committing to making a difference and seeks out the best college students,” she said. “Their dedication to helping others is what attracted me to the opportunity.”
Lewis is studying Political Science and Public Relations and works as a cashier at Best Buy. In her spare time, she is also the service coordinator for her sorority, Delta Phi Epsilon, and teaches catechism classes at St. Dunstan’s.
Josh Noble, 20, of Northville, is a junior at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas. An active volunteer, Noble applied for Alternative Spring Break to help those individuals who lost their homes during Hurricane Rita.
“I felt that if I had an opportunity to help a victim piece their life back together and recover from this tragedy, that I should help in any way possible,” he said.
Noble is studying business and biology with a pre-med emphasis and has volunteered throughout his life. He is a member of Phi Kappa Sigma Fraternity, and serves as the organization’s community service chair. He’s also involved with Alpha Epsilon Delta Pre-med Fraternity and plays Lacrosse at TCU. His past volunteer experience includes working with United Way, the American Cancer Society, Reading is Fundamental, Make a Wish Foundation, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the ALS Foundation.
Kira Putt, 25, of St. Clair Shores, is a Campaign Associate at United Way for Southeastern Michigan and will be serving as a Team Leader for Alternative Spring Break 2007.
“I am coming into this experience with an open mind and heart,” said Putt. “I’ve learned that walking down the road of life you never know what the next bend will have. I can't explain how excited I am to be able to share this adventure with all of those going to Louisiana.”
As a Campaign Associate, Putt manages relationships with local schools, universities and labor unions that participate in United Way’s annual campaign. She is also active in her community’s Optimist Club and has volunteered at Most Holy Trinity’s annual Christmas party. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Organizational Communications and Women’s Studies from Western Michigan University in 2004.
Brian Sawyer, 23, of Oak Park, is passionate about volunteering. A Team Leader for Target Corp. in Farmington Hills, Sawyer will also serve as a Team Leader for Alternative Spring Break 2007. He will be able to use his life-changing experience from last year’s Alternative Spring Break Storm Corps to inspire and uplift his team.
Last year, Sawyer was one of two people from Michigan and 100 participants nationally who helped rebuild areas devastated by the hurricanes in Biloxi, Mississippi and Foley, Alabama. Projects consisted of gutting interiors, mold mitigation, debris removal and rebuilding roofs.
“We were able to complete four houses,” said Sawyer. “I was so blessed to be able to move four families out of their FEMA trailers back into their homes. Sleeping in tents, four-minute outside showers and eating on curbs is something I did for two weeks, but hurricane victims go through this everyday.”
This year, Sawyer is planning to volunteer 17 days.
“I am excited to jump in, get dirty and make a difference.”
Sawyer has been volunteering with United Way for about six years and is active with volunteer projects at Target. He believes Alternative Spring Break 2007 will energize and inspire participants to return to their own hometowns and get involved.
“If we all just gave one day we could make a difference anywhere.”
Ryan Schreiber, 22, of Dearborn, is a senior at University of Michigan - Dearborn, studying Communications with an emphasis in print journalism. He chose to apply for United Way’s Alternative Spring Break to give back to a region and community he’s never visited, but still feels a strong sense of commitment toward.
“I am fascinated with the resolve of this country and its people; people willing to go anywhere and do anything in time of crisis,” said Schreiber. “I want to be one of them.”
At UM-Dearborn, Schreiber is the editor-in-chief of The Michigan Journal, overseeing production of the newspaper. He has also interned at the Dearborn Press & Guide and currently works at Westborn Fruit Market in Dearborn as a produce assistant and store photographer/marketing assistant. Schreiber also has extensive volunteer experience, helping Divine Child High School with their annual auction as well as giving his time to local soup kitchens and clothing drives.
Angela Walker, 25, of Northville, is serving as a Team Leader for Alternative Spring Break 2007. She is the Volunteer Program Associate at United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
“I knew from the time I was in middle school that I wanted to make a difference,” said Walker. “What kind of difference I wasn't sure – but I knew I would spend most of my life trying to figure out how I could make the world a better place.”
Working in United Way’s Volunteer Center, Walker coordinates countless meaningful volunteer opportunities for schools, churches, companies and other groups year-round. Prior to that, she worked as an intern in community planning and fund distribution at Greater Kalamazoo United Way.
Her most recent personal volunteer endeavor was The Breast Cancer 3-Day, which she completed in 2006.
Walker obtained her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University in 2004.
Learn more about these Alternative Spring Break volunteers by visiting United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s Alternative Spring Break 2007 blogs at http://uwsemasb.blogspot.com/.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Patricia A. Ellis, 313-226-9484 or cell, 313-410-3417
Megan Bracket, 313-226-9409 or pager, 313-840-4321
DETROIT – Fourteen Detroit area volunteers, including college students and professionals, will give at least a week of their time volunteering for United Way’s Alternative Spring Break 2007, sponsored by FedEx and GameStop/EB Games. MTV is serving as the media partner, promoting the program and filming a documentary called “The Amazing Break,” which will air the weekend of March 23. United Way for Southeastern Michigan will be taking this enthusiastic group of volunteers to Lake Charles, Louisiana, March 10 –17, to help in the long-term recovery efforts to rebuild the Gulf Coast area still devastated by the 2005 hurricanes. In total, approximately 300 college students from across the country will be participating in Alternative Spring Break during March.
The goal of the Alternative Spring Break is to inspire young people to engage in community service during their spring vacations. This year’s volunteers will clear debris, restore local schools and nature trails, and repair some of the more than 1,700 homes that still have blue roofs, which are temporary FEMA tarps that prevent further damage. United Way of Southwest Louisiana will provide volunteer housing and project support.
“United Way’s Alternative Spring Break is a great way to engage young people to make a lasting difference in our country,” said Michael J. Brennan, president and CEO, United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “Families affected by the 2005 hurricanes are still recovering from the devastation. The progress that will be made by the collective action of these committed volunteers, and the lives they will touch through their efforts, is an amazing example of what can be done when we work together.”
This is the second year for Alternative Spring Break. In 2006, United Way of America partnered with thinkMTV to create Storm Corps to help those directly affected by the 2005 hurricanes. Nearly 100 volunteers traveled to Biloxi, Miss., and Foley, Ala. to remove debris from yards, repair porches and roofs, tear out walls and rebuild a youth recreation center.
“I never knew I could learn to do so many things to help make a big difference,” said Brian Sawyer, who participated in last year’s efforts and will be returning this year as a team leader. “It was the greatest experience and the most inspiring of my life. I learned that anyone with determination and passion to make a difference can. This year I hope to gain the commitment of other young adults like me to come back motivated to build our own communities stronger.”
Brennan added, “You don’t have to go far to make a difference. There are lots of opportunities to give back right here at home. What you get in return is the priceless gift of helping others.”
To learn more about year-round volunteer opportunities, go to http://www.uwsem.org/ and click “Get Involved” or call United Way’s 2-1-1.
United Way’s Alternative Spring Break 2007 local volunteer profiles
Kawthar Ali, 22, of Dearborn Heights, is a senior at the University of Michigan - Dearborn studying Elementary Education. Ali is committed to making a difference both in and outside of her community and enjoys working in a diverse environment. Ali was born in Tehran, Iran but spent her early years in Damascus, Syria. She moved to the United States with her family when she was twelve. She was intrigued with Alternative Spring Break because it was different than other volunteer projects she’s participated in.
“For one week, I won’t be thinking about myself or school; I’ll be thinking about those who are homeless or in need of help,” said Ali. “I don’t want to sit at home saying ‘I wish I can help those people effected by the hurricanes’ but instead I’m giving up everything for a week just so I can help build or paint a home and bring a smile to someone’s face.”
A 2003 graduate of Crestwood High School, Ali volunteered through Key Club and the National Honor Society. She is a recipient of the University of Michigan Dearborn’s Distinguished Student Leader Scholarship and a member of Volunteer Dearborn.
“I’m going into education and this experience is a perfect way to encourage young students to give more than they receive, and to be compassionate about others.”
Natalie Brookins, 22, of Dearborn, is also a senior at the University of Michigan - Dearborn. She is completing her degree in criminal justice and psychology, and plans to go on to law school. Currently, Brookins is a law clerk for Bodman, LLP.
A graduate of Dearborn High School, Brookins is the first person in her family to go to college. She received an Associate’s Degree in criminal justice from Henry Ford Community College before transferring to the University of Michigan - Dearborn. Brookins volunteers with Volunteer Dearborn and the Golden Key International Honor Society, open to juniors and seniors in the top fifteen percent of their class.
Brookin’s said that one of her favorite volunteer projects was planting trees on Make a Difference Day.
“Who knew that spending all day outside, engaging in physical labor, in awful weather, could be so much fun and rewarding!”
Randy Dillard, of Detroit, will serve as a Team Leaders for Alternative Spring Break 2007. Motivating and inspiring others to do their best comes natural for Dillard, a student activities supervisor in the Office of Student Activities, at the University of Michigan - Dearborn. Dillard was born in Golf Coast area, spent his early childhood in Detroit and then moved to California, where he received a Masters degree in counseling and his undergraduate degree in psychology.
Dillard came to the University of Michigan - Dearborn about two-and-a-half years ago. In his position, he is constantly fostering student learning and personal development – encouraging educationally purposeful activities, both inside and outside of the academic classroom. He helped create the Volunteer Dearborn project at the university, to connect students, faculty and staff volunteers to numerous projects benefiting community agencies and the individuals they serve. He also worked in close partnership with United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s George W. Romney Volunteer Center to help sustain the volunteer initiative at the university.
“The Alternative Spring Break program coordinated by United Way of America and MTV, in my opinion, is something that could not be passed up,” said Dillard, who encourage his students to apply for the experience.
“We have a small but committed group of individuals who are ready and willing to make a difference.”
Brad Frost, 25, of Detroit, has been selected as a member of the management team for Alternative Spring Break 2007. He helped design United Way of America’s first Alternative Spring Break last year while he was a community fellow with the organization. He also participated with other United Way of America community fellows in 2005 in a learning and development program that took him to the Gulf Coast to assist the local United Way in Jackson, Miss., immediately following Hurricane Katrina.
Currently, Frost is a manager of Community Investment Strategies at United Way for Southeastern Michigan. He is tasked with planning and implementing the organization’s business model of community impact. Frost received his bachelor’s degree from University of Mary Washington.
Frost is committed to making a difference in the world. He has studied at the School of International Training in Geneva, Switzerland, and Durban, South Africa. He also held various roles with Americorps National Civilian Community Corps in the western United States, assisting with unmet human needs, education, environment, and public safety. While in college, Frost volunteered on two Alternative Spring Breaks with Habitat for Humanity as both a team member and team leader.
"It's critical for all of us to understand the power of experiential learning through volunteer service,” he said. “For youth, programs like United Way’s Alternative Spring Break help bridge passion to action, and that pays dividends for a lifetime."
Crystal Grammatico, 23, of St. Clair Shores, has nonstop energy. Currently, she is attending graduate school at Wayne State University working towards a Masters in Social Work. Grammatico received her undergraduate degree in psychology and interpersonal communication from Central Michigan University. She is a 2001 graduate of Lakeview High School.
Grammatico is an intern at Warren Woods Middle School working with special education and general education students. She loves working with the children and finds their honesty and innocence inspiring. She also works part-time as a leasing assistant for Roseville Automotive Group.
According to Grammatico, being from a close Italian family and experiencing all that families go through has helped shape her life.
“My mother is a breast cancer survivor. My father passed away two years ago after a long illness. Seeing my father ill for so many years made me see life from a different perspective. It made me appreciate the people who care and are willing to help along the way. I think that’s what compelled me to be a social worker and do something that will make a difference in people’s lives.”
Volunteering comes natural for Grammatico, so giving a week of her time with Alternative Spring Break is something she is really excited about. Although she’s not sure what to expect, she has an open mind to new experiences and wants to do all that she can to help those in Lake Charles, La.
“When I get back, I hope to educate others about what we’ve done and let them know that there are people who are in need out there, and any little thing we do can help make a difference.”
Brandon Hannah, 24, of Westland, is a foster care case manager with Catholic Social Services. He received a degree in Social Work from Madonna University in 2005 and works closely with children, which he loves. He’s especially happy that he and his wife are expecting their first child in July.
Hannah feels a special connection with those impacted by the hurricane’s devastation, since he has family living in New Orleans and the Louisiana area.
“Everyone know somebody who was affected by the hurricanes,” said Hannah. “We cannot forget that this is a long-term project to help rebuild the lives of many who were displaced during the hurricane. I feel that everyone can help in some way and Alternative Spring Break is my opportunity to give back.”
This is not the first time Hannah volunteered out of state. He volunteered in Morelia, Mexico for two weeks while in college, working in a soup kitchen and providing play therapy at the local Children’s Hospital.
“I would hope that if anything happened to me, someone would be there to help. I would like to do the same.”
Adam Harris, 20, of Lathrup Village, is a junior at the University of Michigan - Dearborn. He decided to apply for Alternative Spring Break because he knows there is always someone who needs a helping hand, and felt that this was a great way to offer that help.
“I hope to gain a sense of contribution to my community [through ASB],” said Harris. “It is very important for me to be a humanitarian and help in any way I can.”
Harris is studying business administration, with a focus on management and supply chain management. He is active in his university as a Varsity basketball player as well as being involved with the Black Student Union and Student Athletic Advisory Council. He was also the head organizer of the UM-Dearborn Basketball Camp.
Off campus, he is committed to helping youth learn and appreciate sports by serving as a youth basketball coach in Southfield, a Junior NBA and WNBA Basketball Coach, and an assistant teacher of career planning for the Detroit Lions Rookie Camp.
Theresa Kowalczyk, 24, of Dearborn, is a senior at University of Michigan - Dearborn. She learned about Alternative Spring Break from UM-D’s newspaper and was interested in the opportunity.
“I think it will be a world-altering experience…I’m hoping it will give me some perspective on life and be an opportunity to have fun while doing so.”
Theresa is currently working on her teaching certificate and works at Jumpstart, where she started as a volunteer. There she works with children to develop their literacy and social skills. She has also volunteered with the Dearborn Animal Shelter and currently works at Starbucks.
Kristen Lewis, 20, of Westland, is a sophomore at University of Michigan - Dearborn. Kristen is excited to join United Way for this year’s Alternative Spring Break because she has always wanted to make a difference in someone’s life.
“United Way is committing to making a difference and seeks out the best college students,” she said. “Their dedication to helping others is what attracted me to the opportunity.”
Lewis is studying Political Science and Public Relations and works as a cashier at Best Buy. In her spare time, she is also the service coordinator for her sorority, Delta Phi Epsilon, and teaches catechism classes at St. Dunstan’s.
Josh Noble, 20, of Northville, is a junior at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas. An active volunteer, Noble applied for Alternative Spring Break to help those individuals who lost their homes during Hurricane Rita.
“I felt that if I had an opportunity to help a victim piece their life back together and recover from this tragedy, that I should help in any way possible,” he said.
Noble is studying business and biology with a pre-med emphasis and has volunteered throughout his life. He is a member of Phi Kappa Sigma Fraternity, and serves as the organization’s community service chair. He’s also involved with Alpha Epsilon Delta Pre-med Fraternity and plays Lacrosse at TCU. His past volunteer experience includes working with United Way, the American Cancer Society, Reading is Fundamental, Make a Wish Foundation, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the ALS Foundation.
Kira Putt, 25, of St. Clair Shores, is a Campaign Associate at United Way for Southeastern Michigan and will be serving as a Team Leader for Alternative Spring Break 2007.
“I am coming into this experience with an open mind and heart,” said Putt. “I’ve learned that walking down the road of life you never know what the next bend will have. I can't explain how excited I am to be able to share this adventure with all of those going to Louisiana.”
As a Campaign Associate, Putt manages relationships with local schools, universities and labor unions that participate in United Way’s annual campaign. She is also active in her community’s Optimist Club and has volunteered at Most Holy Trinity’s annual Christmas party. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Organizational Communications and Women’s Studies from Western Michigan University in 2004.
Brian Sawyer, 23, of Oak Park, is passionate about volunteering. A Team Leader for Target Corp. in Farmington Hills, Sawyer will also serve as a Team Leader for Alternative Spring Break 2007. He will be able to use his life-changing experience from last year’s Alternative Spring Break Storm Corps to inspire and uplift his team.
Last year, Sawyer was one of two people from Michigan and 100 participants nationally who helped rebuild areas devastated by the hurricanes in Biloxi, Mississippi and Foley, Alabama. Projects consisted of gutting interiors, mold mitigation, debris removal and rebuilding roofs.
“We were able to complete four houses,” said Sawyer. “I was so blessed to be able to move four families out of their FEMA trailers back into their homes. Sleeping in tents, four-minute outside showers and eating on curbs is something I did for two weeks, but hurricane victims go through this everyday.”
This year, Sawyer is planning to volunteer 17 days.
“I am excited to jump in, get dirty and make a difference.”
Sawyer has been volunteering with United Way for about six years and is active with volunteer projects at Target. He believes Alternative Spring Break 2007 will energize and inspire participants to return to their own hometowns and get involved.
“If we all just gave one day we could make a difference anywhere.”
Ryan Schreiber, 22, of Dearborn, is a senior at University of Michigan - Dearborn, studying Communications with an emphasis in print journalism. He chose to apply for United Way’s Alternative Spring Break to give back to a region and community he’s never visited, but still feels a strong sense of commitment toward.
“I am fascinated with the resolve of this country and its people; people willing to go anywhere and do anything in time of crisis,” said Schreiber. “I want to be one of them.”
At UM-Dearborn, Schreiber is the editor-in-chief of The Michigan Journal, overseeing production of the newspaper. He has also interned at the Dearborn Press & Guide and currently works at Westborn Fruit Market in Dearborn as a produce assistant and store photographer/marketing assistant. Schreiber also has extensive volunteer experience, helping Divine Child High School with their annual auction as well as giving his time to local soup kitchens and clothing drives.
Angela Walker, 25, of Northville, is serving as a Team Leader for Alternative Spring Break 2007. She is the Volunteer Program Associate at United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
“I knew from the time I was in middle school that I wanted to make a difference,” said Walker. “What kind of difference I wasn't sure – but I knew I would spend most of my life trying to figure out how I could make the world a better place.”
Working in United Way’s Volunteer Center, Walker coordinates countless meaningful volunteer opportunities for schools, churches, companies and other groups year-round. Prior to that, she worked as an intern in community planning and fund distribution at Greater Kalamazoo United Way.
Her most recent personal volunteer endeavor was The Breast Cancer 3-Day, which she completed in 2006.
Walker obtained her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University in 2004.
Learn more about these Alternative Spring Break volunteers by visiting United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s Alternative Spring Break 2007 blogs at http://uwsemasb.blogspot.com/.
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