Possible alternative break trip

A bill will be presented to Senate in two weeks that would allow 16 students to travel to New Orleans, La. on an alternative Spring Break trip.

If the bill passes, as is, the trip would be free for students. Student Government funding would pay about $400 a student.

"The bill will provide students with the chance to make a positive impact on a city that has experienced great hardship in recent years," said Marco Quiroga, SG civic engagement director.

Students will be working with Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit organization that builds homes for low-income families.

Students will have the opportunity to work with other volunteer organizations as well. All of the efforts will contribute to reversing the destruction that Hurricane Katrina left in 2004.

"This will be the start of an annual tradition of providing students with an Alternative Spring Break," said Quiroga.

The program has taken years to develop, according to Quiroga.

"We believe that after the tragic earthquake in Haiti, there needs to be an outlet for students to get hands-on and help those in need. We can help here at home and make a huge difference to an area that still is hurting from the aftermath of natural disaster," Quiroga said.

All students are welcome to apply.

Habitat for Humanity has built more than 350,000 houses and provided 1.75 million people with shelter.

For more information contact Quiroga at maquirog@eagle.fgcu.edu