By Alicia Gillman

Twenty-two students, alumni and staff members attended the second annual Alternative Summer Break (ASuB) trip in Chicago, IL August 21-26, 2016. Participants were divided into three groups and volunteered with either NeighborSpace, Inspiration Corporation, or Pacific Garden Mission addressing the issues of Food Security, Urban Renewal and Homelessness/Hunger, respectively. Some of the work at the service sites included maintaining community gardens, prepping and serving meals, general cleaning and maintenance of facilities.

Throughout the week, students engaged in both individual and group reflection activities that allowed space for them to think critically about the work they engaged in and ways that they could bring what they learned back to Flint. Participant Peyton Kerns stated, “This trip has taught me so many life lessons and I’ve also made so many great friends along the way.” ASuB 2016 was truly a week that lasts a lifetime, leaving a large impact on the organizations served and the participants.