Gabriela Larkins spends Spring Break volunteering in New Orleans

2016 Apr 12

Gabriela Larkins of Chardon is one of 51 caring Baldwin Wallace University students who gave up 2016 Spring Break week to make a difference through BW's Alternative Break service program. The program facilitated five diverse trips with student volunteers traveling to Atlanta; Boston; Kansas City, Mo.; New Orleans; Toledo, Ohio; Detroit and Chicago. The trips were led by a BW student with a University faculty or staff adviser providing support.

Larkins, a graduate of Chardon High School majoring in business administration and theatre acting and directing, volunteered to take part in the Alternative Break "Mystery Trip" without knowing the location or service topic. On departure day, the student volunteers found themselves heading to New Orleans for BW's 11th year of service in the Gulf Coast region. The group served with Project Homecoming, a faith-based community development organization committed to facilitating a culture of care in targeted communities through: safe, durable, affordable and environmentally sensitive construction; community driven partnerships; service and fellowship. Throughout the week, the BW senior worked on a home being rehabilitated from damage done by Hurricane Katrina. Additionally, students connected with residents and learned about the city's culture and amazing resiliency. The trip was led by BW student Sam Bradley with support from staff adviser Matt Heran.

The Alternative Break experience at BW provides students with opportunities to make a difference, travel to another area, learn new skills and meet people with similar interests. Alternative Break is one of many community service programs organized by the David & Frances Brain Center for Community Engagement to support BW's mission of empowering students to become contributing, compassionate citizens of an increasingly global society. Community groups interested in partnering with BW can contact the Center for Community Engagement at 440-826-2403 or oco@bw.edu.