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SUU Community Engagement Center
417 W. 200 S.
435-865-8335
Dr. Earl Mulderink Director
Pam Branin Associate Director
Veronica Cazares Administrative Assistant
Gabrielle Strand AmeriCorps Program Specialist
Pat Palmer AmeriCorps VISTA
Alternative Break Club (ABC)
Alternative Break Registration is now open
What are alternative breaks?
Alternative breaks provide SUU students with an 8-day humanitarian service experience—an alternative to the “partying” that college students’ breaks are notorious for. Typically, there will be 12-20 students on a break. Each break is led by a student leader and overseen by an SUU faculty or staff advisor.
Why should I consider an alternative break?
Most students who participate in a break describe it as, “Life-changing!” Many report, “It’s the best experience I’ve had at SUU!” Breaks provide the opportunity to:
- Travel and experience a different environment or culture (without spending a lot of money!)
- Meet new people and build relationships
- Learn about a community issue
- Serve and create social change
- Develop leadership skills
How much do trips cost?
The break fee varies on whether transportation is ground or air. Trips that students drive to are usually less than $600. Trips that require air travel are priced based on the costs of flights. The fee covers all trip costs including meals, travel and accommodations. A non-refundable deposit of $100 for land-travel groups and $200 for air-travel groups is due at the time of registration.
There are Alternative Break Scholarships available
Trip Locations
Locations vary from year to year and are announced as soon as sites are secured.
Winter 2012 Location:
- Taos, New Mexico, Jan. 1-6 working with Via International serving with immigrant and indigent populations
Spring 2013 Locations:
- San Diego, California, March 9-15 working with Via International serving with immigrant and indigent populations
- Santa Fe, New Mexico, March 9-15 working with Via International serving with immigrant and indigent populations
- Tacoma, Washington, March 9-15 working with Habitat for Humanity
Additional Trip Details
- The trips listed above are $550 each. This trip fee covers all travel, food and lodging costs.
- A $100 non-refundable deposit is due upon registration.
- Questions? Contact Pam, braninp@suu.edu
What will I do on an alternative break?
The primary purpose of trips is to volunteer. Participants engage in direct service for four full days during the break. On the fifth day, they have an opportunity to explore the city visited. In the evenings, participants enjoy free time to play games, hang out, tour the city, or just relax. Trips that work with Habitat for Humanity will work on natural disaster clean-up and/or building or renovating housing. Trips that work with Via International will work with local youth immigrant groups, at a community garden and with other organizations that work with immigrants.
How do I sign up for a break?
Registration is online
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