Out-of-state students spruce up city during Spring Break

By Ian Perrotta
Review Staffwriter

For most college students, Spring Break is a time to relax. But a few weeks ago, for 38 students it was a time to get to work. They spent their break doing community service in Hamtramck.

The students – 12 from Crown College, 12 from the University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown, and 14 from Spring Arbor College – were in town to do work with Acts 29, a faith-based organization that serves the community in various ways. Each of the team’s leaders had been in Hamtramck before and desired to return with more students.

During their time here, the students engaged in several projects. They helped the non-profit resale shop Recycled Treasures move from one location to another, taught English as a second language, assisted disabled neighbors with yard cleanups and helped remove graffiti from Sam’s Market at Commor and Fleming.

They also did drywall and mudding in two houses being renovated by Acts 29 as well as aid the social studies quizzing program at Holbrook Elementary School.

The week wasn’t all work though. In the off-time, the students made friends with the Acts 29 Basic Truths for Life youth ministry and got a chance to tour the city. Additionally, they had an opportunity to sample tastes from around the world, with Royal Kabob, Bosnia Specialties and Polonia offering generous support.

More students were in town this week to help out, and another crew will arrive in Hamtramck next week. Also, a host of volunteers are expected to come out for the city’s annual Clean Sweep, which is Saturday, May 15.