See How These Gates Scholars Aimed To Serve For The Greater Good

While many students shy away from hard work during their spring vacation, a growing number of young adults use their spring academic recess to embrace community goals aimed to serve a greater good. Gates Millennium Scholars (GMS) are known to be selected based on the strength of their academic achievement and demonstrated leadership skills, yet acceptance of the Gates scholarship award also demands a commitment to service.

This year’s Alternative Spring Break (ASB) was held in the Nation’s capital of Washington, DC during the week of March 17-23rd. With over a week-long of workshops, panel discussions, and engaging activities, about 65 scholars traveled from different parts of United States to meet at Washington D.C.

 

Scholars were divided into 4 teams: blue, green, yellow, and red. As the four teams got their hands dirty throughout the day, their collective mission was to  serve the community at local sites including Capital Area Food Bank, Boys and Girls Club, DC Scholars, Salvation Army, Brookland Middle School, Cardozo Education Campus and a visit to The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.

 

The GMS Alternative Spring Break (ASB) Program is a service-learning program that provides Gates Scholars with an opportunity to explore social issues through meaningful service, education and community empowerment. Friendships were made and the smiles were created as scholars even spoke to the students from schools about college readiness and leadership. As they painted recreation rooms, designed bulletin-themed boards and even built arcade systems for afterschool programs, the last ASB program was one to remember!

 

 

Take a look back on previous Alternative Spring Break Service Trips:

 

ASB 2017

ASB 2016

 

ASB 2013

ASB 2011

Photos used: Art Trends Photography