During the last week of December, New American Pathways had the pleasure of hosting an Alternative Break Group from Central Michigan University (CMU). This group of 12 students served with us over a two-day period, helping to set up an apartment for a newly arriving refugee family, organize our storage unit, and even assist in our afterschool program!
Students who participate in CMU’s Alternative Break trips have the opportunity to serve with different communities through direct services dedicated to social justice. Students in this particular group range from freshmen to seniors and come from all different backgrounds!
Over the course of the two days, these students were kind, dedicated and ready to serve. CMU student and Alternative Break group member Bellal Ammar shared that he was interested in volunteering with this population because he was a refugee himself, and he wanted to give back to the community of which he was a part.
Student Ashlei Hinkle said she chose to serve with refugees because she “wanted to learn more about the process many people must take to enter the United States and what efforts are made to try to make that transition run smoothly.” CMU has reminded us how wonderful it can be seeing young, passionate students so involved in communities and ready to make a difference.
Bellal has advice for others who may be thinking about volunteering with refugees in the future. “Go for it!” he says. “Don’t even think twice. This is one of the most rewarding and impactful things you can do, not only for yourself, but for the family, whether it is direct or indirect service.”
At New American Pathways we greatly appreciate the hard work of all of our volunteers. Like any nonprofit, we couldn’t serve in the capacity that we do without them – so for that, we thank Central Michigan University!