MSU - ASB 2023 - Jonestown

PLEASE Reference the 2024 trip fundraiser.

Hi Everyone,

We are back for another trip to Jonestown, MS in early March this year with the students of Michigan State University. As you may have heard, last year just after the trip, our beloved Sr. Kay passed away from a short battle with Cancer. Prior to her passing she had done a lot of work to ensure that her programs, including Alternative Spring Breaks, would continue coming to Jonestown and helping the people of Jonestown. Myself, along with a few other folks have taken it upon ourselves to continue these trips and ensure they continue for the foreseeable future. We have also taken it upon ourselves to attempt to expand the trips to other groups including Alumni, schools and anyone that is willing to come down.

While some things have changed the main goal of the trip has not changed, to help the city of Jonestown and improve the life of the residents through service and donations. This year we have a few major projects that will help the team, that lives in Jonestown, continue to work with the young children and adults to improve their situation through school, extracurricular activities, etc.

The projects this year involve the resource center. The Resource Center is a location that Sr. Kay was able to procure from the town a few years back. In the past we have done major work to the building such as replacing the roof, painting, concrete, etc. There are a few more improvements that need to be made now as this building will not only be used during the day but will also be an option for groups to stay at during their service trip. In order to allow this we must make the building more functional along with adding some new safety features and security. The following items are scheduled to be worked on:

1. Kitchen remodel - In the kitchen we will re-do the entire kitchen as there was a pipe that just burst from freezing. We will also install a washer and dryer, new fridge, new sink, etc. so that groups are able to cook, clean and be comfortable within.

2. Bathroom - Install a shower for groups to utilize throughout their stay

3. Safety upgrades - Throughout the building we will replace all smoke detectors, replace old outlets and switches, check all wiring, fix and repair and doors that don't close/lock properly, etc.

4. outdoor lighting - We will improve the outdoor lighting situation so that the building is safer and has more light around the premises.

5. Storage Room - We will improve this storage room creating more and safer shelving, better storage, and a more efficient use of space.

With all of these projects we have a need for donations to help with the cost of materials. Please consider donating whatever is possible for you to donate. The funds will be used for this building to make the above improvements and ensure the safety of all volunteers that stay within the building. Without your donations many of these improvements would not be possible.

We are looking to continue Sr. Kay's legacy of Service and this is just the beginning. The team, students, and Sr. Kay appreciate anything you provide to help us in our endeavor.

Thank you for your donation.

Thank you for your donation!