For seven Anna Maria College students, Spring Break was focused on service. Organized by Campus Ministry, the students embarked on a transformative experience that took them far beyond the confines of lectures and laptops. Students traded their textbooks, pens, and social media for hammers, shovels, and genuine human connection. They disconnected from the digital world to immerse themselves in community service.
Working alongside students from The College of St. Scholastica, a Catholic college in Minnesota, the students spent Spring Break at Bethlehem Farm in West Virginia. They lived in a large lodge on the farm, ate home-cooked meals using sustainable practices, and had an opportunity to experience Appalachian culture. During the week they worked on projects such as feeding farm animals, cutting wood, preparing vegetable beds in the fields, or going out in the community to build wheelchair ramps, replace flooring, and work construction on a large garage. They also cooked for community members, cleaned an area home that had suffered fire damage and helped an elderly woman remove old windows from her home.
“During the week of spring break, I learned a lot of new valuable information,” said sophomore Ashley Jorge. “The farm staff taught us how to use new tools and we appreciated the opportunity to be a part of their community. The week in West Virginia was a fun experience, a great time to learn, and an amazing way to try new things.”
The most touching aspect of the service trip was “community night.” Local residents came to the farm for a community potluck. Just like a large family dinner, the locals brought their favorite dishes and stories to share. The evening was full of gratitude, shared faith, and good times.
“What struck me most was the warm welcome we received upon arrival,” said Campus Ministry Director Joe Jorge. “We weren’t greeted with handshakes or formal introductions but with heartfelt hugs and the phrase ‘Welcome Home.’ These simple words created an immediate sense of belonging that set the tone for our entire experience.”
This journey provided lessons that can’t be found in the classroom. Students learned practical skills and more importantly, they experienced the profound impact of community service and the connections that can form when we step outside our comfort zones.
Students interested in future alternative break experiences should contact Campus Ministry.
