Community Service Center

Community Service Center - Alternative Breaks - About

It's Your Break, Change The World

From summer, to spring, to winter, Alternative Breaks can create positive change in local communities!

Alternative Breaks at American University provide student-facilitated experiential educational experiences for groups of students traveling during their school vacations to work with community initiatives that address global and local social justice issues.  In the spirit of community solidarity and engaged learning, Alternative Breaks are alcohol free trips. 

The purpose of the program is for students to critically reflect on their role in the global community through service, activism, academic inquiry, and leadership.


New Program:
Summer in Mexico: Community Based Learning Program in Chiapas & Oaxaca
Application will be available in November.

Travel Grants

100 dollar bills

If you need assistance to pay for a trip, you can apply for a travel grant
$100 to $500 per person available!
You can use your Finanical Aid to pay for a trip if you do the one credit option (SIS 386: Selected Topics in Global Social Justice).
Talk to the Alternative Break coordinator for details.

Become a Leader!

Alternative Breaks Student Leaders

AU students get involved with social justice movments around the world.

Schedule an appointment with Alternative Break coordinator if interested in becoming a leader.

Learn how to become a leader


Current Trips

Apply Now Map of World

Spring Break Trips to Bangladesh, Colombia, Ireland, Kenya, Navajo Nation, New Orleans
Online Application
(Mac users-please fill out on PC)
Application Deadline: 11/16

Learn more


Watch Alt Break Film

Ruwwad Service Day - Alternative Breaks

View a YouTube video of AU students in Palestine working with Ruwwad service project.

View YouTube video



Newly Updated AUPedia

(rss)
MORE INSIDER GUIDES