Carolyn Stabile Making a Difference Through Alternative Break Program

2014 Dec 22

Carolyn Stabile of Baltimore, Md., is spending winter break working to help others in Philadelphia, through an Alvernia University Alternative Break program. Stabile is an Occupational Therapy major at the university.

During the fall semester, Alvernia students participating in winter alternative break trips learned about the social justice issues they will likely experience this winter. These students are working to better understand the causes and effects of poverty, and to make a difference in society, as they travel to Cincinnati, Ohio, Philadelphia, Pa., Reading, Pa., and the Dominican Republic.

Through the Interfaith Center of Greater Philadelphia’s week long (Jan. 11-17) immersion experience "Interfaith Encounters program," Alvernia students will meet, interact and work with members of religious groups different from their own. The program combines interfaith learning, visits to several diverse faith communities, and intensive community service. Students will gain a richer respect for diversity and difference which goes beyond mere tolerance.

ALVERNIA is a fast growing Franciscan university, grounded in the Catholic and liberal arts traditions, that combines diverse academic opportunities with personal attention and an unmatched commitment to community service. Situated on a scenic 121-acre suburban campus in historic Berks County, Pa., the university supports a rigorous and caring learning community that is home to more than 3,000 students. For more information visit alvernia.edu.