MANSFIELD, PA— Mansfield University students travelled to many places over spring break the week of March 13. 
Two groups, one going to the New York City Area and the other flying to the San Francisco Bay Area in California, passed on traditional spring break activities in order to participate in “Break a Difference,” an alternative spring break.
Team Leaders Bri Dion and Joey Jordan, Jenn Freeman, Caitlyn Daly, Hang Nguyen and Brock Schnock traveled to California Frank Crofchick, advisor and interim dean of Students.
Team leaders Emily Torres and Chris Homa, Cooper Barshinger, Sofiyah Ibidunni, Katie Emerick, Shayna Flint, Mallory Kotulka and Kay McBratney, accompanied by advisor Mike Stamp, assistant director of the Kelchner Fitness Center, went to New York City.
Both Mansfield groups joined student volunteers from across the country to work with Boys and Girls Clubs on a number of projects. They also completed service projects at food banks, soup kitchens and on clean-up efforts.
The highlight of the experience was the opportunity to work with at risk children through the Boys and Girls Club.
“Our students truly influenced so many children during our time,” Crofchick said. “Seeing them reading stories, helping with studying and even talking about their life goals
Also during the week, the MU volunteers had the opportunity to visit some of the sights in the Bay Area and New York City.
To see more pictures from the Mansfield “Break a Difference” experience, go to the Community Service Club Facebook page at facebook.com/MansfieldUniversityCommunityServiceClub
For more information on the Community Service Club and community and volunteer services and opportunities at MU, go to mansfield.edu/community-service2/