UVI Offers Students Alternative Spring Break During March 11 – 15

University of the Virgin Islands (File photo)
University of the Virgin Islands (File photo)

This spring, University of the Virgin Islands students will get a chance to “Serve, Learn and Grow” during the third annual Alternative Spring Break (ASB). From March 11 – 15, the ASB program will offer students the opportunity to become immersed in meaningful community service campaigns, forge new and lifelong lasting relationships and become exposed to new and exciting experiences.

“We are excited to partner with organizations and agencies in our community to provide the week-long service and experiential learning projects designed to foster self-awareness, teamwork and leadership skills,” said Dean of Students Verna Rivers, St. Thomas Campus.

ASB is designed as a peer-led initiative in which students, work alongside staff or faculty coordinators to develop the framework for the projects, which also include fun activities. As a part of this year’s curriculum and experiential learning, ASB students will participate in numerous teambuilding activities and reflective exercises while residing in on-campus housing. Dean of Students on the Albert A. Sheen Campus, Hedda Finch-Simpson, encourages ASB participants to embrace the opportunities offered by UVI, become advocates for change and for programs that positively impact the community.

ASB participants will also have an opportunity on both campuses to share their experiences with the university community, family and friends. ASB was developed and is being implemented by the Student Affairs Offices.

The listed 2019 ASB projects and community partners are highlighted here:

Sound deh Alarm, American Red Cross, St. Thomas
Primary Focus: Safety Awareness and Installation of Fire Alarms

Helping Hands, Queen Louise Home for the Aged, St. Thomas
Primary Focus: Making a Difference in the Lives of the Elderly

Roots N’ Pride, Nisky Moravian Church, St. Thomas
Primary Focus: Historic Restoration and Family Genealogy

Survival Skills, Ridge to Reef Organic Farm, St. Croix
Primary Focus: Organic Farming and Sustainable Living

Crucian Pride, University of the Virgin Islands, St. Croix
Primary Focus: Historic Sites Preservation and Crucian Cultural Extravaganza

Make our Island Shine, St. Croix Environmental Association, St. Croix
Primary Focus: Trail Restoration, Turtle Surveying, and Beautifying the Islands

Pillow Project, American Red Cross, St. Croix
Primary focus: Emergency Awareness and Preparedness

The application link is Alternative Spring Break APPLICATION– Click NOW. The deadline to apply is Tuesday, March 5, 2019.

For further information, contact the Offices of the Dean of Students at 693-1087 or vrivers@uvi.edu on St. Thomas and 692-4188 or hfinch@uvi.edu on St. Croix.