UOlivet Students Make Lasting Impact in Biloxi, Mississippi
A group of dedicated Comets decided spring break was no time to take a break. Instead, they traveled to Biloxi, Mississippi, to serve the local homeless community.
The University of Olivet has been offering an alternative spring break since 1999, giving students the opportunity to make a positive impact in far-reaching places. This year, eight students embarked on the journey to Back Bay Mission, an organization that has been strengthening neighborhoods, seeking justice, and transforming lives on the Mississippi Gulf Coast for over 100 years.
“I was motivated to join the service trip to Biloxi because I wanted to make a meaningful impact in a community in need while also gaining a deeper understanding of social issues like poverty and disaster recovery,” said junior Diora Gibson. “I saw this trip as an opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone, connect with others who share a passion for service, and grow both personally and socially.”
Diora was joined by Kenzie Gray, Mia Williams, Alivia Clarke, Joella Ochaba, Mollie Matthews, Ryan White, Ulrick Meighan and Rev. Mike Fales. Throughout the week, the students served in a variety of ways—handing out food, rebuilding homes, and, perhaps most importantly, offering a listening ear to those who needed it.
The experience deepened the students’ understanding of the realities of homelessness.
Senior Joella Ochaba has been volunteering since she was in the 7th grade. “Volunteerism comes from the heart when it is not required. It’s about humbling yourself so that you can become a leader in the service you are doing and being able to have the sense of belonging that you are doing something valuable by giving up your time. I see volunteerism as an opportunity to make a difference.”
This volunteer experience, however, was like no other for Joella. “I got to know more about what challenges homeless people face on an average day which gave me even more respect for the homeless than I ever had before,” she said.
Building Connections Beyond Service
While the group worked hard to serve the community, they also took time to form personal connections with the people they met. Seeing the struggles of the homeless firsthand had a lasting impact on many of the students.
“I think the most challenging thing I had to do was watch the people have to go back to their tents or spots at the end of the day. I am a person with a big heart and seeing that happen bothered me,” said sophomore Alivia Clarke.
But on their final day in Biloxi, Alivia had an experience that made her feel hopeful. As she and her fellow Comets were preparing to head back to Michigan, a man asked them for help finding his brother, whom he had recently learned was homeless. Without hesitation, Alivia guided him to the Back Bay Mission staff for assistance.
“The man approached me again later to thank me. He was excited that he may be able to find his brother again. This all happening made me feel great because I knew I may have helped his brother get off the streets as well as bring a family possibly back together,” she said.
For Diora, a woman named Ms. Georgia left a lasting impression. Despite facing homelessness herself, Ms. Georgia remained focused on helping her family.
“I feel like my assistance made a difference in her life because we were there for her, not to help her physically but mentally because we listened to what she had to say without any judgment,” Diora explained. “She is so funny and loving, I truly wish her well and that she will be sheltered very soon.”
A Lasting Impact
The week in Biloxi was more than just a service trip—it was an eye-opening experience that deepened students’ understanding of community, compassion, and the impact of giving back.
“If you ever see a mission trip opportunity, take it. It might be nerve-racking at first, but you will learn and have fun all at once,” said Alivia.
Diora echoed that sentiment, emphasizing how service extends far beyond a single trip.
“It’s not just about helping others, it’s about building relationships, learning from different perspectives, and working together to create change. I now see volunteerism as more than just a one-time act; it’s an ongoing commitment to making a difference, no matter where I am,” she said.
Interested in learning more about The University of Olivet’s commitment to service to others? Apply today or connect with the Office of Admissions at 800-456-7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu.
Photos courtesy of sophomore Alivia Clarke and junior Diora Gibson.