Gabriela Larkins
  • business administration and theatre acting and directing
  • Chardon, OH

Gabriela Larkins spends spring break 2017 volunteering in Washington

2017 May 24

Gabriela Larkins of Chardon was among 35 compassionate Baldwin Wallace University students who gave up spring break week to make a difference through BW's Alternative Break service program. The program facilitated five diverse experiences with student volunteers traveling to Clarkston, Ga., New Orleans, New York, Washington and Wheeling, W.Va. Each experience was led by a BW student with support from a University faculty or staff adviser.

Larkins, a graduate of Chardon High School majoring in business administration and theatre acting and directing, volunteered to take part in the alternative break experience in Washington. The outreach was in partnership with D.C. Central Kitchen, Capital Area Food Bank, Bread for the City, D.C. Hunger Solutions and The Alliance to End Hunger. The BW senior worked on anti-hunger initiatives and learned about the issue of hunger in society. The group of eight, led by graduate student Kate Chambers and BW staff member Sarah Thaxton, completed over 135 hours of service during their stay as well as visiting The National Museum of American History and other sights.

"After this week, I'm so much more passionate about hunger and food policy in America. Even if it is not in my career path, I do plan on incorporating this issue and this work into whatever I do with my life," one student commented.

The BW Alternative Break service program provides students with opportunities to make a difference, travel to another area, learn new skills and meet people with similar interests. Participants commit to a six-week, pre-trip curriculum including issue education, organization orientation, team building and a full-day retreat on social justice and cultural competency. 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. Community groups interested in partnering with BW can contact the Center at 440-826-2403 or BrainCenter@bw.edu.