Au Alternative Breaks

Alternative Break Programs are service-learning experiences designed to heighten participants' awareness of critical social issues, enhance their individual growth, and prepare them for lifelong social action. Through deliberative and reflective dialogues, direct service, and meaningful education on critical global and domestic social issues, student participants exchange, evaluate, and take action toward different ideas and approaches that challenge specific social, political, and economic structures. Direct service with community partners demonstrates to students how they can turn their learning into action and activism that is community-centered, ethical, and sustainable. Participants become prepared to engage with the community through pre-departure trainings, discussions, guest speakers, service, and other activities.