During a week when many college students travel to warmer climates, 68 students from Wayne State University will spend spring break in Detroit making a difference. The students are participating in a service-learning immersion program called Alternative Spring Break Detroit (ASBD), now in its 12th year at Wayne State.

From March 15 to 19, participants will volunteer at nonprofit organizations for four to five hours each day. They will eat at culturally themed restaurants each night, stay in a downtown church and attend sessions that focus on education, crime and blight, arts and cultural awareness, and hunger and homelessness.

The ASBD program is designed to transform negative stereotypes and increase awareness of issues affecting the city. It also gives students a connection to Detroit beyond what they experience at Wayne State. 

"The program inspires students to become active members of the community," said Devon Sterk, WSU coordinator of student life, legacy and affinity programs. "Many past participants find local organizations they connect with and continue the work they started during spring break."

Terrel White, a senior majoring in political science, has been an ASBD participant since his freshman year. The community service enthusiast said he doesn't see spending spring break any other way.  

"Between the people, places, food and fun, I don't think you can get much better," he said. "This is a great way to explore the city."

ASBD is sponsored by the Dean of Students Office. Learn more at doso.wayne.edu/asbd. 

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering more than 370 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 28,000 students.