Spring break is only two months away. Now is an excellent time to start planning how you will spend that week. If you’re curious about volunteering, working for a cause, meeting other Buffs or just want to learn something new, consider being part of the Alternative Breaks program this spring.
What is Alternative Breaks?
The Alternative Breaks program sends teams of college students to engage in meaningful community service during spring break. These student-led volunteer opportunities positively impact environmental and social justice issues in various communities.
The program allows students to explore the United States while making a difference through service and creating long-lasting connections with others.
Join the growing community of Alternative Breaks alumni:
- CU Boulder has hosted 142 Alternative Breaks programs in 28 states and four countries.
- 1,350 students have participated in previous years.
- 190 students have participated in more than one Alternative Breaks program.
2023 Alternative Breaks program opportunities
- Support the humane care of animals in need at an animal sanctuary dedicated to the rehabilitation of dogs in Tennessee.
- Offer disaster relief for individuals impacted by hurricanes and flooding in partnership with a disaster recovery organization in Louisiana.
- Build sustainable environments with natural conservation by working with a conservancy in California.
- Tackle food insecurity by volunteering at a local community food bank in Nevada.
Reasons to participate
Make a positive difference. Working in local communities to give back provides a lasting benefit. Support a cause you are passionate about and make a difference.
Travel with a new perspective and purpose. Travel, learn and share new experiences with fellow Buffs who also want to make a difference and give back to a community.
Learn about yourself. Stepping out of our comfort zone is key to personal growth. This is a great way to learn about issues affecting other communities and more about yourself outside the classroom.
Meet new people. Traveling with other Buffs is a great way to make new friends and get to know them on a deeper level. You’ve already got one thing in common to start the conversation.
Add to your resume. Volunteering gives your resume the hands-on experience you need. You can gain valuable skills such as team-building, communication and problem-solving.
How to participate
- Use your IdentiKey to sign up for CUServes and join the Alternative Breaks Group. You’ll then complete your profile and answer questions for the program selection process.
- Applications are now open and are due by Sunday, Feb. 12, at 11:59 p.m. Accepted applicants will receive notification via email.
- Attend a participant information session to learn more about spring 2023 opportunities:
- Jan.19 from 5-6 p.m. in UMC 245
- Jan. 23 from 5-6 p.m. in UMC 245
- Visit the Alternative Breaks website for additional information.
- Reach out to the Volunteer Resource Center with questions at altbreak@colorado.edu.
How has the Alternative Breaks program impacted participants?
“My participation with Alternative Breaks allowed me to further my knowledge of service-learning and the importance of meeting community needs in an equitable manner. Being a participant on a CU Alternative Breaks trip was definitely one of the most impactful experiences I’ve had at CU to date!” Ava Daley, program participant and 2023 site leader
“I would say that it was one of the most rewarding and refreshing experiences I had at CU. I met and worked with many amazing new people and was able to directly help with service efforts on my trip, which helped me learn more about sustainable service and service learning.” Bhawana Paudel, program participant and 2023 site leader