Current Experiences
Alternative Break’s community partners focus on a range of social justice issues that impact local, national, and international communities. Some partners have been working with Alternative Breaks volunteers for years, while others are just beginning their relationships with our program. Below, you will find more specific information about each of our community partners organized by the primary social issue they address.
Alternative Weekend Experience
Friday, October 4th - Sunday, October 6th, 2024
Experience Description:
Join us in Raleigh, NC, for an enriching civic engagement experience with You Can Vote. As a volunteer, you'll learn about North Carolina's new Voter ID laws and the voter registration process during this election year. Engage in hands-on voter registration drives and participate in educational workshops focused on civic engagement, public policy, and government. This opportunity will help you develop a deep understanding of voter laws, practical outreach skills, and an appreciation for civic responsibility. Ideal for those passionate about making a difference, this experience offers personal and professional growth in the realm of civic participation
Who Our Partner Is:
Transportation:
Transportation will be provided by Alternative Breaks, from UMD campus to the housing site, and to and from service sites.
Location:
Raleigh, NC
Cost:
$150 (Inclusive of lodging, food, transportation, and any additional educational activities.)
There are scholarships available as well. When signing up for the experience, you will receive a link to the scholarship. Note that the deadline to register and submit a scholarship application is September 15th, 2024.
Leaders:
Cat
Alternative Winter Break Experiences
Wednesday, January 8th - Saturday, January 18th, 2025
Experience Description:
Blue Spring and Wekiwa Springs State Park are valuable state park sanctuaries for wildlife and ecosystems. The parks pride themselves on environmental sustainability to protect its inhabitants. Participants will be working as volunteers for the parks in various capacities that could include building a trail, assisting with re-planting, invasive species removal, and/or other projects. These projects will help delve deep into the importance and role of state parks in environmental conservation. Please note that this will be a camping trip. If wildlife and the environment are something you’re passionate about, this trip is for you!
Who Our Partners Are:
Blue Spring State Park and Wekiwa Springs State Park
Transportation:
Transportation will be provided by Alternative Breaks, from UMD campus to the housing site, and to and from service sites.
Location:
Wekiwa Springs, FL. *Rock Springs Run Horse Camp (primitive campsite)
Cost:
$600 (Inclusive of lodging, food, transportation, and any additional educational activities.)
There are scholarships available as well. The scholarship link will be accessible upon registering for the trip.
Leaders:
TBD
Experience Description:
Los Andes, Guatemala, is a nature reserve located on the southern slopes of the Atitlan Volcano in Guatemala. The reserve is an area in which environmental conservation, agricultural production, and human development are carried out sustainably for the well-being of present and future generations. Participants will be asked to observe keenly and openly how the reserve meets the needs of the local coffee and tea farmers and citizens cost-effectively, with minimal negative environmental repercussions.
Who Our Partner Is:
Transportation:
Transportation will be provided by Alternative Breaks, from UMD campus to the housing site, and to and from service sites.
Cost:
$1700 (Inclusive of lodging, food, transportation, and any additional educational activities.)
There are scholarships available as well. Please send an email to alternativebreaks@umd.edu for more information regarding financial assistance.
Experience Leaders:
Karina & Nqaba
Experience Description:
Join us in Morehead, Kentucky, the home of Frontier Housing, a non-profit organization dedicated to building affordable housing and providing education for low-income families. On this trip, you'll receive training and hands-on experience in constructing homes, playing a vital role in helping families achieve stable and secure housing. In addition to building houses, you'll assist with various tasks that support Frontier Housing’s mission, such as community outreach and educational programs. This trip offers a unique opportunity to learn valuable skills, make a tangible impact, and contribute to the well-being of the Morehead community.
Who Our Partner Is:
Transportation:
Transportation will be provided by Alternative Breaks, from UMD campus to the housing site, and to and from service sites.
Cost:
$600 (Inclusive of lodging, food, transportation, and any additional educational activities).
Experience Leaders:
Maawiah & Samari
Experience Description:
Join AB as we partner with New Alternatives, a non-profit organization based in NYC dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ youth through comprehensive programming, housing support, wellness services, and fostering a sense of community. During this trip, you will have the opportunity to interact with New Alternatives’ clients and lead enriching activities and field trips for various groups. Additionally, you may assist with organizing events, supporting wellness initiatives, and contributing to the overall mission of creating a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ youth. This trip offers a chance to make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable experience and building lasting connections.
Who Our Partner Is:
Transportation:
Transportation will be provided by Alternative Breaks, from UMD campus to the housing site, and to and from service sites.
Cost:
$800
Experience Leaders:
Alternative Spring Break Experiences
Saturday, March 15th - Saturday, March 22nd, 2025
Experience Description:
Participants will be trained in providing critical home repairs and modifications to low-income homeowners in Staunton, Augusta, and Waynesboro, VA. Potential projects include: wheelchair ramps, skirting mobile homes, repairing leaky roofs, replacing toilets - it all depends on what's needed by the community! No prior experience needed.
Who Our Partner Is:
Renewing Homes of Greater Augusta (RHGA) is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit that provides low-income homeowners, living in Staunton, Augusta County, and Waynesboro (SAW) Virginia. The mission of RHGA is to accomplish, at no cost to a homeowner, critical home repairs and modifications for low-income elderly, disabled, and disadvantaged homeowners. We are a volunteer-driven organization with an active board and many dedicated volunteers who complete repairs for our clients.
You can learn more about Renewing Homes of Greater Augusta here.
Transportation:
Transportation will be provided by Alternative Breaks, from UMD campus to the housing site, and to and from service sites.
Location:
Staunton, VA
Cost:
$250.00 (Inclusive of lodging, food, transportation, and any additional educational activities.)
Leaders:
TBD
Experience Description:
On this experience, we will have the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Bay and explore the importance of this natural wonder, along with tackling the issues that put the Chesapeake Bay at risk. Through collaboration with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, we will engage in hands-on field programs to actively combat the negative effects of agricultural, industrial, and human influence on the area. Participants will also be able to learn about the policies and restoration efforts in progress and will gain perspective on how the biodiversity of the Bay has impacts on our everyday lives.
Who Our Partner Is:
Transportation:
Transportation will be provided by Alternative Breaks, from UMD campus to the housing site, and to and from service sites.
Location:
Annapolis, Maryland
Cost:
$250.00 (Inclusive of lodging, food, transportation, and any additional educational activities.)
Experience Description:
Moncure, NC is home to Camp Royall, the country’s largest and oldest camp for autism. Participants will act as counselors for the week or part of the week, working 1:1 with an individual with autism. This means helping them to navigate the camp schedule, encouraging their participation and helping them manage all needs otherwise (communication systems, behavior management, personal care needs, etc). Campers in each program may be of all ages, young kids through older adults.
Support is provided for all volunteers and staff as they get to know their camper and help them have fun at camp. Volunteers are never alone but are expected to jump in and give their camper a great experience.
Who Our Partner Is:
Camp Royall is a hub of year-round activity that offers a caring, accepting atmosphere and celebrates each individual. The 133-acre camp near Pittsboro is the nation’s largest and oldest autism camp, serving thousands of people each year.
Camp Royall provides typical camp activities, including swimming, arts and crafts, hiking, hayrides, and boating. All activities take place in a structured environment to meet the needs of individuals with autism. Our staff is professionally trained to guide campers through all activities.
You can learn more about Camp Royall here.
Transportation:
Transportation will be provided by Alternative Breaks, from UMD campus to the housing site, and to and from service sites.
Location:
Moncure, NC
Cost:
$300.00 (Inclusive of lodging, food, transportation, and any additional educational activities.)
Leaders:
TBD
Experience Description:
Our experience in Bland and Wytheville, Virginia will examine rural poverty in the United States. Despite facing economic hardships, Bland, VA has a vibrant culture and strong-willed community members. Our service with community partners will depend on what the town identifies as their needs while we are there, which in the past has involved serving meals, sorting donations, building a community garden, and helping local residents with home projects.
Who Our Partners Are:
Wytheville Training School, Bluefield Union, Open Door Community, Local Government
Transportation:
Transportation will be provided by Alternative Breaks, from UMD campus to the housing site, and to and from service sites.
Location:
Bland, VA
Wytheville, VA
Cost:
$250.00 (Inclusive of lodging, food, transportation, and any additional educational activities).
Leaders:
TBA
Experience Description:
Join us in Lynchburg, VA! This exciting opportunity allows participants to make a meaningful impact by supporting Lynchburg Grows in various essential activities. You'll assist with gardening and farming preparation for the upcoming season, providing families in the area with access to nutritious food. Participants may also help run a plant sale, contributing to the sustainability and outreach of Lynchburg Grows, and handle other tasks to support the organization. This trip offers a chance to learn about sustainable agriculture, engage with the local community, and make a lasting difference. Join us for a rewarding experience that combines hard work, education, and community service!
Who Our Partners Are:
Transportation:
Transportation will be provided by Alternative Breaks, from UMD campus to the housing site, and to and from service sites.
Cost:
$250 (Inclusive of lodging, food, transportation, and any additional educational activities).
Leaders:
TBA
Summer Alternative Break Experiences
Thursday, May 22nd - Sunday, June 1st 2025
Experience Description:
Join us in Morehead, Kentucky, the home of Frontier Housing, a non-profit organization dedicated to building affordable housing and providing education for low-income families. On this trip, you'll receive training and hands-on experience in constructing homes, playing a vital role in helping families achieve stable and secure housing. In addition to building houses, you'll assist with various tasks that support Frontier Housing’s mission, such as community outreach and educational programs. This trip offers a unique opportunity to learn valuable skills, make a tangible impact, and contribute to the well-being of the Morehead community.
Who Our Partner Is:
Transportation:
Transportation will be provided by Alternative Breaks, from UMD campus to the housing site, and to and from service sites.
Cost:
$600 (Inclusive of lodging, food, transportation, and any additional educational activities).
Experience Leaders:
Samari