HELPING HANDS

While many college students head for warmer climates over spring break, several Alverno students decided to spend their well-deserved time off helping others. About 15 students signed up to spend two days volunteering at Stepping Stone Farms in Franksville, Wis., cleaning stalls, moving horses and performing other tasks.

Despite the mud, students enjoyed the chance to help out. Mei Ling Hansen, class of 2023, has done some riding in the past and welcomed the opportunity to work with the horses. “I just like giving back to the community,” she says.

The farm’s mission is to foster resilience, responsibility and self-esteem in at-risk youth and others by allowing participants to experience the healing power of horses. For Annette Correa, class of 2026, the opportunity made her feel close to her mom: “My mom loves horses and lives in Ecuador, so I feel like I’m with her.” She’s also grateful for the chance to work with others and to take care of the animals.