Several UNM students are headed to New Orleans today as part of UNM's Alternative Spring Break trip. Sponsored by the Student Activities Center and Dean of Students office, the students will help the St. Bernard Project rebuild houses as part of their relief efforts for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. 

This is the first time the university is participating in an Alternative Spring Break project through Break Away: The Alternative Break Connection, Inc., a non-profit organization that matches college students with communities in need. Alternative Spring Break projects give college students a way to volunteer to provide community service in a community other than their own. 

"We are so excited to go on what we hope will become another UNM tradition," said Hallee Kells, from the Dean of Students office.

Kells created a blog at St. Bernard Project that will be updated daily throughout the week giving readers a firsthand look at the New Orleans project through pictures, videos and stories.  

Break Away's mission is to train, assist and connect campuses and communities in promoting quality alternative break programs that inspire lifelong active citizenship. For more information on their services, visit Alternative Breaks.

The St. Bernard Project is a non-profit, community-based organization that creates housing opportunities so that Hurricane Katrina survivors can return to their homes and communities.  For more information on their organization an ongoing projects visit:  St. Bernard Project

For more information on UNM's participation in the project, contact Lisa Lindquist in the Dean of Students office at 505-277-3361 or ldelgado@unm.edu\