Alternative Breaks

"Alternative Breaks has helped me critically think about the way every social justice issue intersects with others in our world."

Through Central Michigan Alternative Breaks, students have the opportunity to develop into lifelong active citizens by participating in local, national, and global community, direct-service experiences dedicated to social justice.

Breaks occur over winter, spring, and summer breaks, as well as weekends and Fridays. Alternative Break groups partner with nonprofit organizations working to combat social issues in their local area. See a full list of weeklong break topics and sign-up dates.

Breaks are comprised of 10 students total, including two trained student site leaders. Students sign up for breaks based on a social issue they are passionate about serving.

Prior to departure, participants meet weekly with their group to assist with planning and to educate themselves about the social issue and organization they will be serving. Students also learn about the Nine Quality Components of an Alternative Break and the Active Citizen Continuum, which are models for service and leadership in an Alternative Break designed by Break Away.

To learn more about an Alternative Break, check out the links below.

Types of Alternative Breaks

Alternative Breaks offers a variety of options to fit any students' schedule and budget. We offer our weeklong experiences that range from 7-10 days during winter, spring, and summer breaks and travel across the country. Our Weekend Breaks are typically 2-4 days over weekends and Fall Break and travel across the State of Michigan. Friday Breaks are a few hours on a Friday afternoon in the greater Mount Pleasant community. Finally, our International Alternative Breaks are credit-bearing courses that typically travel for 2 to 3 weeks to work with an international community partner.

Philosophy

The Alternative Breaks program is informed by the 9 quality components and Active Citizenship Continuum to ensure these experiences are the highest quality service-learning experiences they can be.

Sign-ups and more

Signing up for an Alternative Break is easy, just follow the steps on our sign-up page! As you prepare to sign up for a Break, be sure to familiarize yourself with the costs of attending a weekend and weeklong Break or find the answers to other frequently asked questions.

Leadership Opportunities

We know you'll love participating in Alternative Breaks! When you're ready to take the next step in your AB experience, sign up to lead your peers as a Site Leader or plan Breaks as a Board Member.

Alternative Breaks