Alternative Spring Break 2009 and 2010

The primary purpose of the ASB experience is to provide a chance for the volunteers to learn how to be sensitive to the needs of different people and their respective backgrounds and cultures, and to further evaluate the efficacy of the educational plan we will prepare.

In February 2009, five volunteers travelled down to Winter Park, Florida. For a week, YHO members implemented an educational plan that encouraged underprivileged children (K-5) to stay in school. Activities included workshops in science, history, business, and drama & art, encompassing the various areas that each YHO member was interested in, and also reflecting each persons' majors. About two hours from each day was allotted to help them build a stronger foundation in English, math, history, and science. Volunteers also tried to help them build up self-esteem and lasting friendships through team activities.

In February 2010, seven volunters drove down to Atlanta, Georgia to work with the International Rescue Committee (IRC). YHO members spent a week teaching refugees basic English in the mornings and tutoring students of refugees in the afternoon. They also helped the refugees' transition into America by showing them about mainstream culture, handing out basic necessities, such as clothes, and teaching them about basic driving rules.

Special Thanks to:

Liberty Mutual, Community Service Center of Central Florida, International Rescue Committee, St. Margaret's Church, Westminster Presbyterian Church, and the Ann Arbor Community