Alternative Breaks
The Office of Service Learning co-sponsors several alternative break service options to "comprehend the richness of our global community, and to work for positive change".
Fall term 24 hour day of service
Participants work and stay at Young People Who Care/ Bethany Retreat Center, in Frenchville, PA. They learn about the Pennsylvania Appalachian reality and provide a day of service with families in the area doing outdoor/home repairs. Often they service with other colleges and universities.
Thanksgiving Break
SOA Rally- Students join other colleges/universities in Fort Benning, GA to call for the close of the School of Americas.
Honduras Mission Trip
This trip is organized through the Mercy Institute.
Learn more about the Honduras Mission Trip.
Border Awareness Experience
Students participate through the Women's Intercultural Center. They stay with families and learn about Border issues in El Paso, TX and Juarez, Mexico. Students meet with Border Patrol officials, Human Rights activists, and environmental groups to understand the cultural, economic, and political issues affecting the border. They often participate in environmental or housing service projects.
Navajo Reservation Experience
Students stay in Fort Defiance, AZ, the capital of the Navajo Nation. They work with individuals with disabilities at the St. Michael's Association for Special Education (SMASE) and do environmental service. Students hike Canyon de Chelley and learn about the anazasi ruins. They visit the Navajo museum, enjoy Navajo food, and meet with a native weaver.
Learn more about the Navajo reservation experience.
Urban Challenge
Students travel to Camden, NJ and Philadelphia, PA to participate in educational and service programs offered through the Romero Center. Each day students choose a service site like soup kitchen, shelters, aids clinics, schools, etc. . . In the evening they have speakers and reflection experiences on urban poverty.
Habitat for Humanity
Campus Ministry sponsors a Habitat for Humanity experience.
Learn more about the Habitat for Humanity trip to Valdosta.
Spring term service weekend
Participants traveled to Cincinnati, OH, to assist at Bethany House Services, a shelter for women and children.