Jessica Edwards
  • Exercise Science and Pre-Physical Therapy
  • Class of 2019
  • North Versailles, PA

Jessica Edwards spends spring break 2017 volunteering in New Orleans

2017 May 24

Jessica Edwards of North Versailles 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.

Edwards, a graduate of East Allegheny High School majoring in exercise science and pre-physical therapy, volunteered to take part in the alternative break experience in New Orleans. The multi-goal experience focused on the continuing efforts to help the region recover from Hurricane Katrina.

The BW junior worked with Project Homecoming, a community development organization that builds durable and environmentally sensitive housing for low-income people. The students also removed invasive vine species that threaten local trees with Sustaining Our Urban Landscape (SOUL). Finally, the group helped organize donations for distribution to food pantries with Second Harvest and Blair Grocery, organizations that seek to bring food security to New Orleans. The trip was led by BW student Peyton Flasco with support from staff adviser Cody Holland.

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.