Ryan Rivard '09
Alternative Spring Break Volunteer
While at Emmanuel, I viewed Spring Break as a time to get away, but not in the way many people might expect. During my last three years at Emmanuel, I spent my time volunteering as part of the Alternative Spring Break program, traveling to places where people needed help.
Through the program, I spent a week in Camden, New Jersey helping the poor. I visited Phoenix, Arizona to work with St. Vincent De Paul, an organization dedicated to helping the homeless. I also traveled to Ecuador, which as a Spanish major, I found doubly inviting.
Whether I was sorting out truckloads, working in health clinics or serving meals in homeless shelters, it was great to know my efforts made an impact on people. These trips were rewarding experiences I will never forget. I am currently pursuing a Masters degree in Counseling from Northeastern University and my experiences volunteering at Emmanuel empowered me with knowledge I use everyday as I continue my studies.
