1996-1997  

Nation’s first student-run service program makes real world come alive

• a.p.p.l.e.s. began to receive notice and praise as the growth of the first, and one of the only, student-led service-learning programs became evident. The success of the program was marked with its ability to match specific community needs with coursework.

Students find alternative options for spring break

• a.p.p.l.e.s. introduced the Alternative Spring Break (ASB) program with the initial trip taking six students to Macon County, Georgia. The following fall, a committee was started to continue the program. The next year it grew to two sites, three the following year and since 2005 has offered four trips addressing different social issues.

Program changes students’ future

Internships alter many career paths

• The internship program grew by offering six spring internships in 1997. Through the work of the students and staff, many students had meaningful experiences in their community placements and continued to work with the agency after the internship was over, which was a significant testament to the success of the program.

APPLES Students Take it to the Next Level

• A few students continue to go beyond the normal service requirement of the class by creating their own projects to address an identified community need. These projects resulted in great successes and further strengthened a.p.p.l.e.s. relationships with surrounding communities.