Serve901: Igniting Change, Fostering Connections, and Exploring Memphis
In the heart of Memphis, a city pulsating with culture and history, Serve901 stands as a guiding light, offering college students transformative experiences during their spring breaks. With a deep understanding of the community and strong partnerships across various non-profit sectors, Serve901 connects students with meaningful projects, addressing issues ranging from food and housing insecurity to youth development and educational equity.
“Whether you’re hands-on or prefer direct engagement, Serve901 has something for everyone,” says Jeff Riddle, the Director of Serve901. Participants not only contribute to impactful projects but also form lasting connections with local Memphians.
A week with Serve901 is a blend of service, learning, and cultural immersion. From exploring local museums to collaborating with non-profits and savoring Memphis’s culinary delights, every moment is designed to be enriching and memorable.
The typical spring break itinerary spans from Saturday to Saturday. Groups kick off their time in Memphis with a visit to the National Civil Rights Museum on Sunday, followed by a dinner coupled with a lesson on Memphis history. Throughout the week, groups engage in service projects with various non-profits, while Serve901 staff ensure everything runs smoothly despite the occasional rain.
Serve901 goes beyond just service; it also provides opportunities for participants to engage with Memphis’s vibrant culture and history. By hosting additional meals at local restaurants like the iconic Four Way, participants get a taste of Memphis’s culinary heritage.
For accommodations, Serve901 has partnered with St. George’s Independent School to create the St. George’s Bunkhouse in the Vollintine Evergreen neighborhood. This space, equipped with 114 bunk beds and shared living areas, serves as a comfortable retreat for participants during their stay.
Prior to the trip, students are encouraged to explore resources highlighting issues affecting Memphis and organizations making a difference in the community. Serve901 also introduces students to post-college opportunities like Memphis Teacher Residency and City Year, inspiring some to return for internships or gap years.
The impact of Serve901 extends beyond the participants themselves. The Memphis community benefits from an average of 30 hours of volunteer time per group, contributing significantly to local initiatives. For many participants, their Serve901 experience becomes a catalyst for long-term involvement in Memphis, with some even choosing to relocate and work for non-profits they volunteered with during their spring break.
Getting involved with Serve901 is simple. Interested individuals can check out a sample schedule on the Serve901 website and schedule a call. Preparation tips include exploring the learning guide and fully immersing oneself in all that Memphis has to offer.
After attending a Serve901 alternative spring break, many participants find themselves more knowledgeable about Memphis than their own hometowns. These experiences not only offer insights into Memphis but also spark a spirit of inquiry and a passion for community- and justice-oriented vocations.
Serve901 is more than just a spring break program; it’s a gateway to impactful experiences, lifelong connections, and a deeper understanding of the world around us. Join Serve901, and discover the transformative power of service in the heart of Memphis.
Sources:
- https://youtube.com/shorts/JHJq3w6uqT8?si=xmH77zSZHzj10IU6
- https://choose901.com/redefining-spring-break/
- https://choose901.com/connect/serve901/
- https://chat.openai.com/
- https://readloud.net/
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