Medford, NJ resident Melanie Vasso spent spring break serving others through James Madison University’s Alternative Spring Break Program. Vasso, a sophomore Biology major, traveled to Los Angeles, California to volunteer with AIDS Project Los Angeles and LA’s Best.
The student-led ASB trips took place from March 7–14. Each trip focused on a social issue, such as homelessness, resettlement, environmentalism or community wellness, in a specific region. Almost 300 students embarked on 23 spring break trips around the country and world. The students spent the week living simply, focused on service in their destination community but also on teamwork and reflection within their group.
In the mornings, JMU students worked with AIDS Project Los Angeles, an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people living with AIDS/HIV. They helped with a variety of tasks from food pantry service to helping with oral health care. In the afternoon, they worked with LA’s Best, a unique after school program that uses techniques of innovation and enthusiasm to encourage at-risk students, ages 5–12, to be their best selves. JMU students served as tutors, mentors and role models as they partnered with local schools.
