In the aftermath of the devastating tornado of April 27th, the overwhelming volunteer and charitable response from around the country allowed the City of Tuscaloosa to open the Tuscaloosa Area Volunteer Reception Center (TAVRC) to coordinate resources for disaster response and recovery operations. 

As an honors class project at the University of Alabama, three freshman students partnered with the City of Tuscaloosa and the TAVRC to highlight businesses offering “volunteer appreciation specials,” that provide incentives for volunteers visiting local businesses in the Tuscaloosa area with the presentation of a Tuscaloosa Forward bracelet or magnet. This website highlights the hotels, restaurants and businesses participating in this Tuscaloosa Spring Break Initiative (TSBI) and some attractions located throughout the city for the enjoyment of the volunteers. These bracelet and magnets are available for purchase at the TAVRC at check in, or online through www.TuscaloosaForward.com. Overall, we hope that you have a wonderful visit to Tuscaloosa and return to our lovely town again!