NW Missouri Times

Sixteen Northwest Missouri State University students took an alternative approach to their spring break this year by engaging in service projects along the Florida coast.

"Quality work over quantity is definitely a big thing," ASB President Morgan Jaeger said. "While our students love a good beach day and all those things, it was clear that they had a heart for service."

The students comprising the University’s Alternative Spring Break (ASB) organization traveled March 10-15 to Rosemary Beach, Florida, where they focused on environmental activities in partnership with Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance, including a reef reforestation project and helping to rebuild sealife habitats. Students also helped with a planting project at an elementary school and filled sandbags.

Jaeger, a sophomore business management and marketing major from Olathe, Kansas, highlighted the impact of their service work, stating, "Engaging in such service activities helped to create a positive impact on the Florida community. We were able to witness the differences we made through our collective effort."

The ASB program at Northwest is designed to provide students with opportunities for community service, experiential learning, and personal growth. Jaeger emphasized the broader benefits of participating in ASB, saying, "Joining Alternative Spring Break offers students a chance to engage in meaningful service, gain hands-on experience and make a positive impact on the community."

Prior to the trip, ASB received financial support from Northwest’s Student Senate and Ten Squared Women, a local organization dedicated to supporting charities. Jaeger expressed gratitude for the support, noting, "Receiving support from organizations like Ten Squared Women can be incredibly meaningful as they not only provided financial assistance but also validated the importance of the work we were doing."

Northwest Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Matt Baker commended Jaeger and ASB for their efforts, stating, "That will pay dividends for generations to come." He added, "We talk about work ethic. We talk about connecting. We talk about just being who we are as Bearcats. I think they represented us extremely well."

Founded in 2006, ASB at Northwest annually provides students with opportunities to engage in service-learning and volunteer projects in various communities. The program aims to positively impact the lives of others while fostering personal development and a sense of social responsibility.

In conclusion, the Alternative Spring Break program at Northwest Missouri State University continues to offer students unique opportunities to make a difference in communities across the country, exemplifying the university's commitment to service and experiential learning.