If you’re already planning your Spring Break, here’s an option you absolutely must consider. Manna Project International at Vanderbilt was established in 2004 as an initiative to bring students together to work towards holistic community development both domestically and internationally. Today, MPI has three permanent sites- one in Nicaragua, one in Guatemala, and one in Ecuador. MPI also has a presence on over eight college campuses- though Vanderbilt’s chapter was the first!
This year, Manna Project International is recruiting students to work with non-profits across Latin America during Spring Break, from Costa Rica to the Dominican Republic. Each project is unique and is led by different “site leaders,” the people who organize your trip and work to make it extra special! I’m personally drawn to the trip in Altamira, Costa Rica, where volunteers will stay in the ASPROLA Lodge and work to plant coffee and construct a soccer field! I also really like the MPI Guatemala trip, where students will be able to run a summer camp program for English education, sports, science, and art! One of the great things about these trips, besides the amazingly rewarding service aspect, is the possibility for great excursions! Groups go to beaches, waterfalls, or local towns, which guarantees that you’ll be more than rewarded for your hard work over break.
When I first heard about Manna, I was really interested but also worried about my lack of Spanish knowledge. But I was immediately reassured- apparently, you don’t need to know any Spanish to go on these trips! If you’re concerned about the cost aspect, MPI offers scholarships and guarantees fundraising opportunities throughout the year, so ALL students will be able to travel with Manna.
In case you’re not already sold, come by Mannaroo Part 2 on Tuesday at 7PM. It will be held in Grins, and it will feature music from The Birchtree Band, Archive Nights, the Melodores, the Swingin’ Dores, Matt Wright, RUDY, and Kristen Wright! It’s sure to be an amazing night, and they’ll be giving out more information about MPI for all those not already convinced. Tickets are $8 cash and $10 on the card and can be bought on the Wall Monday or Tuesday of next week. These proceeds will go directly to the Manna trips themselves!
Instead of just doing the same old thing for Spring Break, commit to a Manna trip this year and make a difference! Applications are out on their blog and are due October 21st.