Moving bales of hay, scrubbing floors and picking up dog poop are not ideal spring break activities for most college students.
However, 15 students from Northern Essex Community College spent four hours on Monday doing just that at Nevins Farm, 400 Broadway, Methuen, as part of alternative spring break.
"We can't afford to go anywhere else with this economy," said Maureen Saliba at Northern Essex. "We have so much need in our backyard we have plenty to do here."
After a presentation and tour of the Noble Family Animal Care and Adoption Center, the students decided to work either in the barn or the office.
Dave Mullins of Pelham, N.H., opted for the barn, where the sun rays were streaming in, roosters were crowing and birds were flying and chirping.
"I love animals and I had some free time," said Mullins, who will graduate this spring with a degree in human services. He carried the hay and handed it to fellow students who formed an assembly line as they made room for a shipment of 400 to 600 more bales.
Paula Richards, who teaches English as a second language at Northern Essex, was placing hay in a wheelbarrow to bring to the students.
"I've always wanted to find out about the farm and this is my opportunity," said Richards who joined Northern Essex nine years ago. "I know there's a big push in the school to do community service and this is definitely a different way a student can learn."
In the Noble Center, Jessica Banks of Salem, N.H., and Maria Anzalota of Haverhill were cleaning the floors with brooms.
"I used to volunteer and I want to do more," Banks said. "It makes me feel good and responsible to help out as much as I can."
Rothmany Rom of Lawrence was working outside — picking up garbage and animal excrement.
"The thing is, they both look the same," Rom said.
Staffers at Nevins were thrilled to have the students come in.
"We're always looking for people to learn about us because they become ambassadors to our programs," said Amy Baker, volunteer coordinator.
In addition to the animal shelter, students volunteered at Lazarus House and helped prepare and serve dinner at Cor Unum meal center.
The alternative spring break is a component of the student leadership development.
"Service learning is important for us to help the student be successful," said Amy Zimmerman, assistant director of the department of student activities and engagement at Northern Essex.
