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Every spring, the largest student-run event at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities brings together music, sports, dancing, and volunteering. The annual Spring Jam is a celebration of warm weather, the end of the semester, and student spirit at the U of M.
 Many students get involved through "Ballyhoo," a dance competition between groups from residence halls, fraternities and sororities, and student groups. Others participate by attending one of several concerts on campus during the week. For some, however, the best part of Spring Jam is the opportunity to help others.
"There are a lot of different events that people can come out and enjoy," says Spring Jam volunteer chair Kristin Martin. "But at the same time it is really an opportunity for us to help a lot of different places that are right on our campus community."
Each year, Spring Jam chooses one or two local charities to support. This year, students joined together in support of the Ronald McDonald House. Established in 1979, the Ronald McDonald House of the Twin Cities helps families cope with children's serious illnesses by providing shelter, professional support, and a supportive community. The House is located one block away from the University campus.
During Spring Jam 2006, Kristin organized students to come together and pack breakfast bags for the families staying at the House. The breakfast bags will help the families, Kristin says, but the experience of volunteering helps students.
"It makes you realize all the opportunities you can do to help people that are in a different place."
For more information on Spring Jam 2006, visit http://www.sao.umn.edu/events/springjam.
To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House of the Twin Cities, visit http://www.rmhmpls.com.
Find out about volunteering at the U of M! Visit http://www.servicelearning.umn.edu/.
-Will White
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