Instead of relaxing on vacation, Howard University students traveled across the country to volunteer through the Howard Alternative Spring Break program, which was centered on the theme of “Service with Impact.”
More than 1,200 students were placed at 23 service sites nationwide. This story follows the 89 students who traveled to New Orleans, where they partnered with local schools, environmental organizations, and community groups.
The program began selecting participants in January, with more than 1,800 students applying. Training sessions and meetings followed in the weeks leading up to the trip, allowing students to build relationships and learn about the communities they would serve.
The trip is supported by donations from many Washington, D.C. residents. Students show their appreciation during the annual WHUR 96.3 Helping Hands Radiothon, gathering as early as 7 a.m. along Georgia Avenue to encourage passing drivers to contribute or simply share words of support.
On March 7, students gathered at 8 a.m. in Cramton Auditorium on Howard’s campus. They were provided with breakfast, encouragement, and prayers before boarding buses to travel to their service sites.
Howard Alternative Spring Break in New Orleans
The New Orleans group loaded onto two buses for the approximately 20-hour trip. The following day, students were assigned to various volunteer opportunities. For some, the experience has become a tradition.
Ebony Williams, a junior participating in the program for the third time, said she returned because volunteering helps her focus on others. “Usually when I work on projects or do anything, it’s self-centered naturally,” Williams said. “But being able to give my time to other people feels rewarding.”
During the trip, volunteers participated in multiple service activities across the city, including working in schools and supporting environmental restoration efforts.
As a participant, I worked at a local high school, speaking with students about the college application process and sharing my experience as a graduating senior at Howard University.
One of my most impactful moments came from a conversation with a student about her applications and future goals. We connected over a shared passion for writing, which allowed me to offer mentorship and support while helping her feel confident about her path forward.
Students also volunteered at the Sankofa Wetland Park and Nature Trail, where they removed trash and invasive plants to support environmental restoration efforts.
While working outdoors, the volunteers built friendships with one another, sharing conversations, enjoying nature, and spotting wildlife, including frogs, turtles, and a baby alligator.
“I love communicating with young people and trying to help them anyway I can. These kids are close to my age, and it is nice to just give them any advice or listen to them,” Williams said.
Giving Back through Support
For Brianna Foster, the trip also provided an opportunity to experience a new region of the country while giving back.
“It feels refreshing and rejuvenating to go into different communities, especially in the South,” Foster said. “I am from the East, so seeing how life is different here is a great experience.”
Foster said serving the community means making a meaningful impact on those who need support.
With the help of community donations and partnerships, the Howard University Alternative Spring Break program provided students with the resources needed to actively participate in service across multiple communities.
The level of community support from both the District of Columbia and New Orleans was essential in enabling students to engage in and contribute to local initiatives.
Under the chapel’s direction, students approached the trip with an emphasis on service and collaboration. Through volunteer work and engagement with the New Orleans community, they contributed to ongoing efforts while gaining an understanding of community needs and the perspectives that shape them.
For me, the experience highlighted the importance of mutual support, noting that the work was not only about assisting but also about building relationships and learning from the community.
As students returned to campus, the program emphasized how coordinated support, from donations to student involvement, can create opportunities for impactful connections beyond the university.
Here is a brief video of our awesome opportunity:
Howard Alternative Spring Break in New Orleans
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Featured image/photo courtesy by mana5280 on Unsplash.