Alternative Breaks

Alternative Breaks are immersive service experiences designed to introduce students to new communities while working to address pressing domestic and global social issues. Participating in an Alternative Break is a great way to get to know other students, make a positive impact, and have a meaningful fall or spring break! Check out this year’s programs and click on the justice issue for each program to learn more:

Apply

Fall Break 2018 (October 11-13)

  • Community Revitalization (Roanoke, VA): Volunteer through REACH, a non-profit organization that connects volunteers with multiple organizations to help meet community needs.
  • Food Justice (Asheville, NC): Volunteer with multiple organizations that holistically work to address the issue of food insecurity.
  • Sustainable Living (Boone, NC): Unplug for your fall break by volunteering with Turtle Island, a self-sustaining nature preserve that provides outdoor education on sustainable living practices.

Spring Break 2019 (March 23-30)

  • Rural Poverty and Housing Restoration (Guyan Valley, WV): Volunteer with Appalachian Service Project to repair and restore homes in Central Appalachia.
  • Urban Poverty and Inequality (Washington, DC): Partner with the Steinbruck Center to volunteer and visit with multiple organizations who are working to address systemic issues related to poverty and homelessness in an urban setting.
  • Youth Rehabilitation in the Criminal Justice System (Columbia, SC): Work with the South Carolina Juvenile Justice Department to mentor youth within the juvenile justice system. Volunteers will serve as classroom aids and participate in recreational activities, while gaining a deeper understanding of issues connected with the criminal justice system.
  • Community Development (Los Lagos, Costa Rica): Partner with Cultural Connections and Volunteers to support multiple projects. The primary focus of this experience is to help a slum community build stoves and floors in their homes. Participants will also have the opportunity to volunteer at a local school and visit with coffee farmers who run a local coffee co-op.
  • Rural Education (Treasure Beach, Jamaica): Partner with Volunteers in Jamaica Opportunity Network to support a local primary school. Volunteers will support teachers in classrooms and contribute to sustainable projects that support a school.

 Alternative Break Frequently Asked Questions 

 Staff and Faculty Learning Partner Expectations and Frequently Asked Questions

 

Elon Alternative Breaks is a proud member of Break Away, a national organization supporting alternative break programs at campuses across the country. We integrate Break Away’s 8 Components of a Quality Alternative Break into our program model.

For questions about Alternative Breaks, contact Kyle Anderson, Assistant Director of Student Community Engagement Programs at kanderson52@elon.edu.