Michigan college students spend week volunteering at S.A. AIDS Foundation
QSanAntonio.com, May 5, 2012

A group of 11 college students from Kalamazoo, Michigan spent their spring break this week at the San Antonio AIDS Foundation, bringing much appreciated volunteer assistance to a variety of jobs, large and small.

The group from Western Michigan University is part of a national Alternative Spring Break organization which makes service and volunteer opportunities available to students across the U.S.

The Michigan students drove to San Antonio in two vans provided by the university. While in town, they stayed at a house owned by and adjacent to the Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church on Wurzbach Road.

"They slept on the floor and cooked communal meals, though they always had lunch at SAAF with the residents." says Susan Bradley, a SAAF volunteer who serves as the agency's volunteer coordinator.

During their week at SAAF, the students helped staff members with many tasks. "They’ve done yard work, painting, fence building, kitchen duty, help feed residents, cleaning and building maintenance." says Bradley.

Students worked during the day and had their evenings free. "I often arrange for them to socialize with local college students who also volunteer at SAAF," says Bradley. "The local students show our Michigan visitors the sights around San Antonio."

This is the second group from Western Michigan University to spend their spring break at SAAF this year. Ten students worked as volunteers during the first week in March. "They did quite a lot to help us prepare for the WEBB Party, making decorations and hosting a VIP party that week," says Bradley.

SAAF has hosted student volunteers from this particular program for the past eight years. Bradley says she believes that the time the students spend at SAAF gives them valuable life experience.

"The students are always a great help and they provide so much encouragement and affection to our residents. They leave regretfully but with a new understanding of AIDS and a great appreciation for San Antonio."