Tiffany Beaudry, Alternative Spring Break 2008 Detroit alum
Tiffany Beaudry, Alternative Spring Break 2008 Detroit alum, is featured in this month's issue of United Way Students in Action. The national e-newsletter provides highlights, updates, volunteer opportunities, information on campus engagement programs like Student United Way and Alternative Spring Break, and job postings across the country for young adults.
I enjoy impacting people’s lives in positive ways through giving my time. ASB (Alternative Spring Break) has given me the opportunity to be a team leader which helps me show others the importance in giving back and life-long volunteering. It is really neat to see the ASB volunteers bring this back to their own community and improve the areas they live in. I impact my community through mentoring a little girl in efforts to help her reach her potential. Read more.
Help United Way win the Facebook Cause Challenge and $2500!
United Way for Southeastern Michigan is one of 48 United Way branches competing nationwide in a Facebook Cause Challenge. If we recruit the most members to our Facebook Cause by June 27th, our national sponsors will award us $2500 to use towards youth and campus programs.
"We didn't give up spring break, we took advantage of it."
The mere mention of spring break causes most of us to conjure up images of lazy days in the sun or wild parties on far-away beaches. But for 60 young volunteers from across the United States and Canada, the break they had this year was something completely different from any they have ever experienced -- thanks to United Way's Alternative Spring Break.
ASB is a two-year-old project that brings together young people interested in spending their spring break completing community service projects, and for the first time Detroit was included among the list of cities hosting volunteers. From Feb. 23 to March 1 ASBers spent their days either working outside in single-digit weather or sweating away on maintenance projects inside, at a number of nonprofit agencies across the region. And while it doesn't sound very glamorous or much like a break, a good time was had by all. In fact, we were hard-pressed to find a single one of them who wouldn't do it all over again.
"At the end of week, I realized that I'd been part of something that will have no end; something that caused a magnanimous spirit to rise within all of the participants and onlookers that hopefully remains vibrant and fervent within us in our respective communities; something that I hope we can all use to ignite the same sprit of unity and selflessness in those around us."
DETROIT -- For Adam Harris, cleaning up nearby neighborhoods is just as critical as traveling across the country to rebuild areas destroyed by natural disasters.
As a veteran participant of the United Way Alternative Spring Break program, the University of Michigan-Dearborn senior has spearheaded an effort that's made Detroit the pilot city for this year's firstoutreach project beyond hurricane relief efforts.
Since 2006, the alternative break program has drawn about 400 college-age volunteers to hurricane-ravaged regions in Mississippi and Louisiana; now they have come to Detroit.
"I threw the idea out we can revitalize Detroit during this economic downturn," said Harris, 21, of Southfield, who approached his local United Way chapter about the opportunity last March.
"If we are working here in the city, people will begin to care and come together socially."
This week, more than 60 students ages 16-26 from Michigan, California, Florida, New York, Ohio and Illinois are working with Metro Detroit service agencies, rehabilitating homes and building ramps for disabled individuals. The projects, in Detroit, Pontiac and Dearborn, serve as the kick-off for Alternative Spring Break 2008.
"Detroit is a great example of the first community outside the Gulf to have young leaders working to advance the common good by creating opportunities for a better tomorrow," said Sally Fabens, spokeswoman for the United Way of America.
"Once the young people see first-hand the issues communities face they want to bring their involvement home to make changes where they live."
Five teams with about 10 students each are splitting their time between beautification projects and cleaning parks and removing graffiti.
Virgle Story III, a part-time student at Southwest Community College in Memphis, Tenn., who also works for program sponsor FedEx, said the experience has been humbling.
"I wanted to come and experience the lifestyle of Detroit. I'm getting to know who I'm helping," said Story, 23. "This is a good city that needs rebuilding."
Alternative Spring Break kicks off in just a little over 24 hours
Over the last two years, United Way has teamed with local communities across the Gulf Coast to mobilize the power, energy and dedication of young adults to help rebuild after the devastation of Hurricanes Ivan, Katrina and Rita. This year, we continue to build on the groundswell of compassion and commitment of Gen Y. United Way and young adults from across the country will converge on communities not only along the Gulf Coast, but in Detroit, Michigan as well.
In all three host communities, Volunteers will dedicate a week of their lives to helping rebuild communities. Whether struggling to recover from the devastation of incredibly powerful hurricanes or combating the economic challenges the prevent our nation’s inner cities from realizing their potential, United Ways across the country are harnessing the power of young people to make a meaningful difference over their Spring Break in 2008.
You can follow the journey of our Detroit ASB'ers by subscribing to their blog at http://uwsemasb.blogspot.com/. Here is what our volunteers have had to say so far:
With overwhelming economic woes, political scandal and an uncertain future, Detroit is a city where a little sunshine is long overdue. Luckily, it's coming this month.
Alternative Spring Break (ASB) is coming to the Motor City, and the University of Michigan-Dearborn will play host to the volunteers from Feb. 21 through March 1.
Almost 2 years ago I started my journey as a Campaign Associate for Resource Development. I spend my days helping to raise dollars through workplace campaigns in Schools and Municipalities. 60% of the time you will find me on the road meeting with my Employee Campaign Coordinators. They are the real hard and supportive workers. They really help me bring the United Way message to their staff.
I have also had the oppurtunity in the last 2 years to work closely with our Volunteer Center to help form partnerships with different Schools and Municipalitites by engaging them and their students through volunteer oppurtunities. One program that I am very proud of is our engagement with Alternative Spring Break. Last year I was able to spend a weeek in Lake Charles, LA as a Team Leader to help with Rita ReBuilding. It was truly a wonderful experience. This year we are proud that Detroit will be the first pilot for an Urban program with Alternative Spring Break. Detroit will be invaded by 50 participants from all over the country to work on several voluteer projects in Metro Detroit. That has really kept me busy the last couple of months. It hasn't happened yet but already the community and internal support have been amazing.
I have learned so much working for United Way for Southeastern MI that you would be reading a very long blog. The most important element that is that I have found my place in the non-profit world. I really am proud of the work we do and that makes my job easier at the end of the day.
Approximately 50 college students from across the nation will invade Detroit for spring break this month, but they aren’t here to relax. They’re here to serve the community.
United Way for Southeastern Michigan will host the students, who are participating in a national effort called Alternative Spring Break, sponsored by United Way of America, Deloitte, FedEx and thinkMTV. UWA is also sending volunteers to Hancock, Miss., and Lake Charles, La., to complete service projects.
Today I got a chance to speak to incoming Freshman and transfer students at The University of Michigan-Dearborn. After receiving many questions on how these students can become involved, I realized that at the core of every person there is the desire and hope for individuals to see their community doing well and thriving. Some of these students I was able to elaborate in great detail about my ASB experience and I told them how life-changing it was for me.
I am very excited for Alternative Spring Break because I hope it will be that life-changing experience for someone else. I have learned so much from being with United Way that I can't tell you how much the practical learning has developed me into a caring citizen of my community. Working along side Angela Walker, Patricia McCann, Kira Putt, Brad Frost and many others has allowed me to gain organizational experience as well as organizational values that contribute to building a great team and organization. I am very blessed and I have United Way for Southeastern Michigan to thank for such a great experience.
As I enter into my last semester at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, I hope that the people of United Way and the community can learn as much from me as I am learning from this moment. There is still hope and a need for a better metropolitan Detroit, and I believe that the members of this community are really eagered to join in to support the effort. However, we must continue to provide opportunities for others to be engaged and experiences that will take others outside of their social circles. I look forward to Alternative Spring Break Detroit doing just that and I still believe in a new Detroit.
After an amazing experience in Lake Charles, Louisiana, I am very excited that Alternative Spring Break will be offered here in Detroit, Michigan. In a meeting that was initiated by United Way, in which former ASB participants from Detroit attended, the idea of bringing an Alternative Spring Break to Detroit was born. We understood that Detroit had not necessarily been devastated by a hurricane, however the economic downturn leaves the community with high foreclosure on housing, disparity between education systems, and job opportunities leaving Detroit. These pressing issues have brought about a drought to Southeastern Michigan and have the citizens crying out for help and attention.
I am very thankful to Angela Walker and Patricia McCann who strongly supported the dream of ASB coming to Detroit. Personally, I would like to apologize for bugging them all the time about it but I was very passionate about students being able to realize the opportunities that still exist in the Detroit area. Looking at the news can be very depressing because the media portrays the city to be a horrific place to live and I realize that this negative perception reaches out to the entire country.
To me Alternative Spring Break Detroit is not just an option for students to participate in during the college Spring Break, it is a learning experience and direct implementation of the “Agenda for Change.” The city of Detroit has so many exciting things going on such as the new river walk, the progress and excitement of the professional sports teams, and the historical architecture that makes this city a wonderful place to visit. So to anyone reading this blog, I hope you do not feed into the hype of a lost Detroit because after a depression always comes an upturn, and I believe a new Detroit is not to far off.
More teens take the time to volunteer than ever before
Source: The Detroit News Published: March 23, 2007 By: Christine Ferretti
For Kawthar Ali, community service is as critical as college classes or her part-time job working with children.
A veteran of numerous volunteer efforts, the University of Michigan-Dearborn senior spent her spring break this month repairing Louisiana homes destroyed by Hurricane Rita. She was one of 300 students who gave up traditional revelry for old-fashioned philanthropy.
"Volunteering isn't something I make time to do. I feel like I need to do it," said Ali, 22, of Dearborn Heights. "I always ask myself, 'How can I help other people?'"
Ali has plenty of company for her giving spirit. Moved by tragedies such as the 2001 terror attacks and the Gulf Coast hurricanes, youths in Michigan and nationwide are picking up hammers, helping the elderly and feeding the hungry in record rates, according to at least two recent national studies.
Volunteerism among American teens has doubled to 28 percent since 1989, the highest rate since statistics were tracked by the Corporation for National and Community Service in Washington, D.C.
The numbers are even better in Michigan. College students ranked 12th nationwide in giving back, with 37 percent volunteering an average of 32 hours per year in 2006, according to a first-ever survey by the U.S. Census and Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The spirit is extending from Plymouth-Canton and Birmingham public schools to Taylor and Warren Woods Tower School, where participation in a program that sends buses of volunteers throughout Metro Detroit has more than doubled to 155 students this year.
Motivations vary by youth Students' motives are as varied as their efforts. High schools such as those in Detroit and Birmingham require community service to graduate, while Plymouth-Canton awards a half-credit to students who complete 100 hours.
Others are motivated by altruism. Madonna University senior Crystal Howard of Belleville traveled with five others from the university to Mississippi and Louisiana to rebuild homes for two weeks as part of Madonna's Alternative Spring Break program this month.
"It was an amazing opportunity," said Howard, 21, a pastoral ministry major who also volunteers to teach at St. John's Deaf Center in Warren.
"If you don't practice what you preach, it's useless."
She's not alone.
Nationwide, 38,000 students participated in so-called "alternative spring breaks" this year, up from 35,000 in 2006, according to Break Away, a Florida nonprofit.
And Michigan is a longtime leader. The University of Michigan launched one of the first alternative spring break programs in 1990 and now sends 400 students to 35 sites around the globe. Some 300 Michigan State University students this month fixed homes in Louisiana, Honduras and Puerto Rico.
Ali participated through the United Way's program, whose nationwide participation has tripled to 300 since it kicked off last year.
"As college students, we worry about work, school, resumes and we're not aware of what goes on outside our own box. It's not all about my life," she said.
Differing motives revealed A February report by the National Research Center for College and University Admissions concluded that recent disasters sparked a surge in volunteerism. It claimed 61 percent of students do volunteer work; and of those, 42 percent participated in some way in hurricane relief.
"The fear transferred from the victims of Katrina to kids across America," said Don Munce, president of the Missouri-based group. "High school students respond aggressively and positively to disasters."
Others aren't so sure. A widely publicized report in February led by San Diego State University concluded college students are more narcissistic than ever and their past good deeds largely are motivated by padding college applications or resumes.
Erika Sorensen acknowledged that accumulating community service hours for the National Honor Society was part -- but not all-- of her motivation to sign up to spend a week building Habitat for Humanity homes in Covington, La.
The Groves High School junior and friends "ran" to sign up to the Birmingham School District's first-come, first-served spring break trip that leaves April 9.
"We had nothing else to do over spring break and thought why not go to Louisiana and build houses?," said Sorensen of Beverly Hills. "I felt like I should do something if I could and I have the time to do it."
No. 1 reason: To help others Some volunteers may enhance resumes with service, but most don't, said Frank McGhee, program director for the Youth Initiative Project of the Neighborhood Service Organization of Detroit. Ninety percent of the 200 teens in the program have only one motivation: To help others, he said.
"This group was volunteering before the popularity set in," McGhee said. "They don't do it because they need community service hours. This is a youth-driven program that makes them want to stick around."
The program's rewards are evident to Rosalyn Edwards, 15. The sophomore at Detroit's University Preparatory High School speaks once a week about gun violence to middle school students.
"You become a leader overnight," she said. "I love my community and want to better my community."
The earlier kids start giving back, the better the benefits, said Karen Palgut, who helps her children Rachel, 15, and Alan, 17, collect clothes for the needy at Plymouth High School.
"If everyone did community service this would be a different world," said Palgut, 49. "They are volunteering and not just because somebody's making them do it, I think it's important and young people understand that."
Josh Noble could have been soaking up the sun in Cancun or skiing in Lake Tahoe during his spring break last week.
But instead of having fun with his fraternity brothers, Noble was part of the United Way's Alternative Spring Break, helping Hurricane Rita victims in Lake Charles, La.
Noble, 20, a Northville resident and junior at Texas Christian University, was one of 14 local volunteers who headed to the Gulf Coast last week to participate in the humanitarian effort, a partnership between the United Way and thinkMTV.
Students came from across the country to help those affected by the storm.
MTV will air a show, "The Amazing Break," about the young people's efforts in the near future.
Angela Walker, 25, of Northville, was one of the team leaders in Lake Charles.
A graduate of Northville High School and Western Michigan University, Walker earned bachelor's and master's degrees in social work and has worked in the volunteer services department of the United Way of Southeast Michigan's office in Detroit for two years.
She said about 150 people traveled to Lake Charles, about two hours west of New Orleans near Houston.
Former Detroit resident helped Her team's project was to rebuild a home for a woman who used to live in Detroit and moved to the Gulf Coast about a year before Hurricane Rita hit.
The woman lost her apartment and is currently living in a Federal Emergency Management Agency trailer.
Walker's team also helped Habitat for Humanity renovate one of their warehouses. She said her team also toured Cameron, La., finding nothing but concrete slabs where homes used to be.
"There are homes that were picked up by the storm and moved out into the middle of the water," Walker said. "It's extreme devastation 18 months later."
A lot of the victims brought the volunteers, breakfast and cooked them lunch.
"They were very welcoming and appreciative," Walker said.
Walker said the experience has been rewarding.
"We've seen what a difference in can make to be able to provide a home to people," she said. She hopes to get more young people involved in the United Way when she returns.
"We're looking to have a roundtable with young adults in the area to discuss what can be done locally, such as notices through MySpace to keep this age group engaged with United Way," she said.
Devastation still exists Noble said when Hurricane Rita struck the Gulf Coast, no lives were lost, but the damage was extensive.
"Many of us were unaware of the devastation here because the media concentrated on Hurricane Katrina," he said. He said FEMA is working on about 120 cases, but about 6,000 cases haven't even been evaluated yet.
His team worked on putting a new ceiling, fixing broken windows and painting the interior of a woman's home. They had to wear biohazard suits and masks due to black mold growing in the home.
"She was scammed by some local construction workers, and 18 months after the hurricane she's still renting a FEMA trailer," Noble said.
He also said the week was rewarding.
"It's definitely been a very humbling experience," Noble said. "This is something I'll remember for years to come. Why not donate your time to make somebody's life change forever? "
Pam Fleming is a staff writer for the Northville Record. She can be reached at (248) 349-1700, ext. 105, or at pfleming@gannett.com.
One student, who worked in Louisiana last week hoping to change a national image of college students, said getting "black-out drunk" during Spring Break is in the past.
Josh Noble, a junior biology major and vice president of Phi Kappa Sigma, joined 150 students Saturday on Spring Break in Lake Charles, La., to rebuild a community devastated by Hurricane Rita 18 months ago.
Noble said Spring Break festivities often give college students a bad name.
"I've had my fair share of freshman Cancun trips and ski trips in Tahoe," Noble said. "I want people to know that people in the Greek community are getting out there to help."
In 2006, United Way of America and ThinkMTV formed a partnership to recruit volunteers between the ages of 18 and 24 willing to give up their Spring Breaks to help Gulf Coast communities devastated by hurricanes in 2005, said Angela Walker, a volunteer program associate for United Way of America in southeastern Michigan.
Noble was recruited by his hometown's United Way affiliate in Detroit, said Sheila Consaul, spokesperson for United Way of America. The United Way Alternative Spring Break 2007 trip will be featured this week in a segment called "Amazing Break" on TRL, she said.
Consaul said Hurricane Rita was the third largest natural disaster in American history, but it unfortunately remains overshadowed by the impact of Hurricane Katrina, the nation's most devastating natural disaster that occurred three months prior to Hurricane Rita.
"Homes are definitely still scattered around," Noble said. "Some of them floated down the bayou and settled in the marshes."
When Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, 20,000 people fled to southwest Louisiana, the region later destroyed by Hurricane Rita, Noble said. Lake Charles is in this region, and people are still sleeping on cots in the civic center as they wait for assistance they cannot afford, Noble said."
The last major hurricane to hit Lake Charles was in 1957," Noble said. "It took 10 years to get it back to how it used to be, and it will probably take 10 years this time too."
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is charging Louisiana in full for the aid it has given since the hurricanes, Noble said. However, an agreement was made: For every hour of community service performed in Louisiana, FEMA will credit it back $18.35, he said.
"This week alone, we earned the state of Louisiana $173,517 in credit toward its debt," Noble said. People often wonder what leads someone back to a place knowing that it will likely be destroyed every 40-50 years, Noble said.
"It's the culture here that brings them back," Noble said. "It's the warm-hearted Creole people that you can't find anywhere else."
Citizens of Lake Charles need "an incredible amount of assistance" to rebuild, Consaul said.
Working in teams of 10 to 12, volunteers face a variety of difficult jobs throughout the week, Walker said. They will reconstruct and build homes and remove the debris that destroyed cabins at Camp Fire USA youth camp, she said."
There are about 6,000 homes in limbo waiting for FEMA assistance and tons of houses with blue tarp roofs," Noble said. "People aren't getting help from insurance agencies and many have been scammed by contractors who either take their money or do a bad job."
The home of Salemah Broussard, 65, received more water damage after her new roof was built than she did during Hurricane Katrina, Noble said. While Noble's team worked at her house Thursday, she sang church songs to encourage them, he said.
When Noble began to tear down Broussard's ceiling, he noticed it was infested with black mold. He said his team was forced to abort the project and discard their clothes. Noble had to bleach everything in Broussard's house, a task he said was difficult because of all the special things she kept there.
"Bleach is the only real mold litigation we have access to," Consaul said. "Josh showed huge depth of character in his willingness to lead the team on a difficult task."
Noble became associated with United Way of America as a high school student in Michigan, Walker said. He and his friends went to Congress to establish 211, a natural disaster emergency information number.
"211 is a national initiative and one of United Way's No. 1 priorities," Consaul said. "Like 411 or 911, it's a social service number. If you need assistance finding elderly care, counseling, getting government checks or substance abuse information, you can dial 211 and be connected in 65 percent of America."
Alternative Spring Break volunteers featured on WWJ-AM
Source: WWJ-AM 950 Original Airdate: March 13, 2007
Click on the link below to hear a pod cast featuring Kawthar Ali and Crystal Grammatico, two students volunteering with United Way's Alternative Spring Break in Lake Charles, La.
DETROIT – Fourteen Detroit area volunteers, including college students and professionals, will give at least a week of their time volunteering for Alternative Spring Break 2007, a partnership of United Way of America and think MTV. 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 the month of 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'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. Last year, approximately 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."
Sponsors for this year's Alternative Spring Break include FedEx and GameStop. CheapTickets is serving as a promotional partner and MTV Networks is serving as the media partner. United Way of Southwest Louisiana will be the host United Way for the program, providing volunteer housing and project support.
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."
Going with the group will be American Muslim Kawthar Ali, 22, of Dearborn Heights, 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 affected 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," she said.
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 number.
United Way for Southeastern Michigan mobilizes the caring power of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties to improve lives in measurable and lasting ways throughout the region.
Two Westland residents are among 14 metro Detroit volunteers who are giving at least a week of their time volunteering for United Way's Alternative Spring Break 2007.
Brandon Hannah and Kristen Lewis will be in Lake Charles, La., to help in the long-term recovery efforts to rebuild the Gulf Coast area still devastated by the 2005 hurricanes. United Way for Southeastern Michigan is taking the volunteers to Lake Charles, La., for one week -- March 10-17.
Alternative Spring Break is 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.
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. 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 knows 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."
Lewis, 20, of Westland, is a sophomore at University of Michigan-Dearborn. She is excited to join Alternative Spring Break, saying 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 the service coordinator for her sorority, Delta Phi Epsilon, and teaches catechism classes at St. Dunstan's Church in Garden City.
Some 300 college students from across the country will be participating in Alternative Spring Break during March. Its goal 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 abig 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 passionto 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."
"You don't have to go far to make a difference," Brennan said. "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 online to www.uwsem.org/ and click on "Get Involved" or call United Way's 2-1-1.
Westland Observer: 2 Westland residents volunteer during Alternative Spring Break
Two Westland residents are among 14 metro Detroit volunteers who are giving at least a week of their time volunteering for United Way's Alternative Spring Break 2007.
Brandon Hannah and Kristen Lewis will be in Lake Charles, La., to help in the long-term recovery efforts to rebuild the Gulf Coast area still devastated by the 2005 hurricanes. United Way for Southeastern Michigan is taking the volunteers to Lake Charles, La., for one week -- March 10-17.
Alternative Spring Break is 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.
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. 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 knows 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."
Lewis, 20, of Westland, is a sophomore at University of Michigan-Dearborn. She is excited to join Alternative Spring Break, saying 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 the service coordinator for her sorority, Delta Phi Epsilon, and teaches catechism classes at St. Dunstan's Church in Garden City.
Some 300 college students from across the country will be participating in Alternative Spring Break during March. Its goal 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 abig 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 passionto 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."
"You don't have to go far to make a difference," Brennan said. "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 online to www.uwsem.org/ and click on "Get Involved" or call United Way's 2-1-1.
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/.
