Getting Ready for Spring or Summer Break?

Now that spring is upon us, it’s time to start planning your spring and summer vacations. Maybe a cruise to the Caribbean? European extravaganza?  Or a weekend trip to Anna Maria? Have you ever considered a volunteer project? Some of our most generous community members are putting a spin on vacationing: They are trading in their flip flops and bathing suits for tennis shoes and sweats; their beach bags for children’s books; and their snorkels for hammers.  These Leadership Givers are giving back to the community in a big way by participating in Alternative Spring and Summer Breaks.

Last summer, Nancy Duncan, a Leadership Giver and Tocqueville member, accompanied a group of seven teenagers who were chosen from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lakeland and Mulberry to travel to Puerto Rico as a result of a generous Grant from Taco Bell.  June 21st is United Way's National Day of Action so it was perfect that on that day the children assisted in preparing and serving lunch to 25 homeless men and women at Iniciativa Comunitaria (a community based organization that promotes health, education and prevention services to special populations). This life changing excursion to Puerto Rico opened their young minds to cultural, culinary, geological and historical experiences. It also gave the kids a chance to practice what it means to LIVE UNITED!

If you or your children are interested in an United Way of America Alternative Spring or Summer Break, please contact Christina Smith at christina.smith@uwcf.org