College students take alternative spring break

FLINT (WJRT) -- (02/23/09)--It's a spring break destination some college kids might not consider: Flint, Mich.

But dozens of area students are staying around town to help clean out abandoned and foreclosed homes.

It's probably safe to say Flint is not your typical spring break hot spot. But this isn't your typical getaway.

In fact, the University of Michigan-Flint students are staying in town for an alternative spring break.

"Alternative spring break is something that's done all around the country," said sophomore Lamus Rush.

"Actually, all around the world at a bunch of different universities. It's just a way of spending your break instead of going out and spending money, having fun."

"I'm not going say I would not like that," said Damesha Jackson.

But these college kids -- about 90 in all -- will be at eight sites around Flint for three days this week.

They're going to clean up houses owned by the Genesee County Land Bank.

"We have a broom and shovel and just dumping it in trash can," Jackson said. "We don't have to touch anything -- we don't have to or want to."

Once the houses are empty, Land Bank crews take over.

"You're helping people and being engaged," Rush said.

It may not be the typical spring break, but the guy in charge says these aren't exactly your typical college students, either.

Students will also volunteer their time during after-school programs at Hamady and Washington middle schools this week.

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local, lori dougovito

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