Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Last Week to Sign Up for Alternative Break Trips!

 Are you ready to make a lasting impact during Winter or Spring break? 

Alternative Breaks (AB) are week-long service-learning immersion experiences during the university's Winter, and Spring breaks that address social issues in local, national, and international communities. Sign ups are still open for our exciting trips, where you'll dive into hands-on service projects, make a meaningful difference, and gain valuable experience. But hurry—seats are filling fast, and the deadline is fast approaching!

Here's a quick rundown of our trips that are still available!!:

Central Florida – Practicing Environmental Stewardship for Threatened Wildlife

3 Seats Remaining [Register Here!]

Explore Blue Spring and Wekiwa Springs State Parks, two important sanctuaries for wildlife and ecosystems. As a volunteer, you’ll contribute to essential conservation projects like trail building, invasive species removal, replanting, and more. If you're passionate about the environment and wildlife conservation, this trip is for you! Note: This is a primitive camping trip, so come ready for an outdoor adventure.

Morehead, KY – Building Futures: Affordable Housing & Community Outreach

1 Seat Remaining [Register Here!]

Join Frontier Housing in Morehead, KY, to help build affordable homes and support low-income families. You’ll gain hands-on construction experience while assisting with community outreach and educational programs. This trip is a fantastic opportunity to learn valuable skills, support a great cause, and make a direct impact on the Morehead community.

New York City, NY – Creating Safe Spaces: Advocacy & Support for LGBTQ+ Youth

1 Seat Remaining [Register Here!]

Partner with New Alternatives, an NYC non-profit that provides support to LGBTQ+ youth. Help organize events, lead activities, and contribute to their mission of offering wellness services, housing support, and creating a safe, inclusive environment. This trip will give you the chance to make a real difference while connecting with an incredible community.

Annapolis, MD – The Backyard Bay: Environmental Health, Justice & Conservation

1 Seat Remaining [Register Here!]

Join us in the Chesapeake Bay to learn about the environmental challenges facing this beautiful natural wonder. Work with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation on restoration efforts, combat agricultural and industrial impacts, and gain perspective on the biodiversity of the Bay. If you care about environmental justice and conservation, this trip is a must!

Bland, VA – Opening Doors: Rural Poverty & Community Support

2 Seats Remaining [Register Here!]

Serve in Bland and Wytheville, VA, where you'll engage with local organizations to address rural poverty. From organizing food drives to building gardens and assisting with home repairs, your work will help empower this resilient community. This trip is a unique chance to learn about rural poverty and make a direct impact in a small town.


Lynchburg, VA – Harvesting Hope: Gardening & Community Engagement

2 Seats Remaining [Register Here!]

In Lynchburg, VA, support Lynchburg Grows as they prepare for the upcoming growing season and provide fresh food to local families. Assist with gardening, plant sales, and community outreach, while learning about sustainable agriculture and food justice. It’s a meaningful, hands-on experience that will have a lasting impact on the community.

We Have Scholarships Available!

We know that finances can be a barrier, which is why we're offering scholarships based on financial need that can cover up to 75% of the trip cost! You can apply for a scholarship when you register, through the same sign up portal! 

Don’t let cost hold you back from making a difference.

If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out. We can’t wait to see you out there making a difference!

Application Information:

For more information or questions, visit alternativebreaks.umd.edu or contact us at alternativebreaks@umd.edu