Don't Give Up Your Spring Break – Take Advantage of It! From March 11-17, college students from across the United States will trade swim trunks for tool belts and team up with United Way of South Mississippi (UWSM) to make a meaningful impact in our community through volunteering and community service. "Young adults are proving themselves to be strong leaders in advancing the common good in communities across the country," stated John Hosey, Director of the UWSM Volunteer Center. "We're proud to team with the students, our nonprofit community partners, and corporate sponsors for ASB because of their deep commitment to communities, volunteerism and engaging the younger generations." UWSM continues its National Alternative Spring Break tradition for the fifth year by providing student volunteers the opportunity to engage in South Mississippi communities through hands-on service projects. The week-long program includes meals, lodging, daily team volunteering projects, and United Way engagement opportunities, as well as nightly activities to showcase our local food, culture, history, and the unique fabric that constructs our community. Students will work on a variety of hands on service projects, including community beautification, income-based housing construction, youth-focused educational programs, and beach clean-up. United Way has capitalized on the importance of volunteering to young adults across the nation. ASB demonstrates what United Way is and the powerful role it plays in communities for the student participants. Jamie, a student at Centre College who attended Biloxi's ASB in 2008, said, "I didn't recognize the scope of United Way. Understanding the common thread United Way has and the way it brings people together from across the country to meet local needs is powerful." Indeed, testimonials from students who have attended past ASB weeks in South Mississippi are truly inspiring. Sam, a participant from 2011, said, "For me, ASB was the springboard to a lifetime of volunteering wherever I may end up living and working."

Sponsored by United Way of South Mississippi Volunteer Center.

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