Alternative Breaks

During the 2024-2025 academic year, Community Outreach’s Alternative Breaks program hopes to provide an immersive experience to approximately 125 students. Through involvement in our service-learning programs, students engage in education, service, and reflection activities that are designed to enhance their understanding of the complex social issues faced by different communities. Students join communities and work alongside them in Connecticut, across the United States, and internationally to assist in promoting their wellbeing and goals.

This year, Community Outreach has planned 10 Alternative Breaks to address a number of social issues such as healthcare access (Philadelphia, PA), community development (Costa Rica & Sunset Gap, Tennessee), racial justice (Washington D.C.), housing security (New Bedford, MA) and food security (New Haven, CT) to support local and abroad communities.

Alternative Break programs provide students with unique opportunities to advocate for social issues, promote their own personal growth, develop valuable relationships, and prepare for lifelong social action. We believe cost should not be a barrier preventing students from participating in Alternative Breaks. We engage in fundraising initiatives aimed to decrease participant costs and make programs more accessible. This year, we are aiming to raise about $5,000 to work towards this goal.

Thank you for taking the time to support our work. The difference that you make for these students is greatly appreciated. If you have any questions, please visit our website at https://communityoutreach.uconn.edu/alternativebreaks/.