Last week, United Way and MTV launched Storm Corps, an alternative Spring Break program designed to inspire young people to volunteer to help rebuild communities devastated by the 2005 hurricane season.

UW partnered with MTV to recruit 100 young leaders, ages 18 to 24 to go to Biloxi, Miss., and Foley, Ala., to experience firsthand United Way’s community rebuilding efforts.

And UTM is trying to get in on the act to help the hurricane-ravaged Gulf coast. The United Way is trying to recruit area colleges to help in their efforts.

“Our goal is not just to have them rebuild homes or clean up neighborhoods but to experience and understand United Way’s role in crisis response and community rebuilding,” said Barry Matthews, president of United Way of West Tennessee. “We’re also providing resources for those not selected or who are looking for volunteer opportunities closer to home.”

MTV is supporting the program online and on-air with PSAs. They will also be doing news segments and programming about Storm Corps and alternative spring-break programs. FedEx and the Home Depot are sponsoring Storm Corps with financial and in-kind support.

“We’re working with local United Ways and the Hands On Network to help create and manage volunteer projects in the impacted areas,” Matthews said.

Recruitment for program, which will be held March 11-17, is taking place now through Feb. 24.

Laura Humphrey, graduate student and director for student organizations, says the hands-on service experience will be a “great opportunity” for UTM students.

To learn more about the Storm Corps program, including application, program rules and FAQ, visit www.mtv.com/thinkmtv/features/ Contact Steve Vantrease at 7766 for more information.