Alternative Spring Break Detroit

Today, I had the pleasure of serving on a panel that explored race and diversity in metropolitan Detroit. The panel was organized by the Detroit Orientation Institute (DOI) for Wayne State University’s Alternative Spring Break Detroit (ASBD). I’ve served on similar panels in the past for the DOI, but this one was unique in that the audience was made up of undergraduate students that willingly gave up their spring break to participate in an educational program in the town where they go to school. Amazing, right? The ASBD program seeks to facilitate a greater understanding of, and appreciation for, Detroit. The weeklong program brings together approximately 52 students and it includes educational programs and volunteer service. Our panel this morning included representatives from the Asian, Latino, Jewish, Arab and African American communities.

My hat goes off to all of the students who participate in this program. The cohort was engaging and curious, and they presented myself and the other panelist with intelligent questions. I had several students approach me following the discussion to inquire about volunteer opportunities with our nonprofit organization. I hope I inspired these young people half as much as they inspired me!

A Tweet from an ASBD participant