What is Break Away! Alternative Spring Break?
The UWF Alternative Spring Break program is part of “Break Away: The Alternative Break Connection,” a non-profit organization that seeks to train, assist and connect campuses and communities in promoting quality alternative break programs that inspire lifelong active citizenship. UWF students engage in a potentially life-changing experience by contributing to a social issue. Students plan and implement the trip and share their service experiences with the campus community.
Want a more in-depth look into what goes on during an ASB trip? Check out the video below!
How do I get involved?
You can contact Tiffany Killam Jurey or Kate Hollimon with Volunteer UWF! at tiffanyjurey@uwf.edu or volunteer@uwf.edu, and the Advisor or President will be notified and will contact you. Watch for announcements of upcoming meeting dates and times, information sessions, etc. in JasonQuest or through the UWF ECal. Or you can simply set up an appointment with a Volunteer UWF! team member and we will get you information regarding who to connect with and how to get involved. You can set up an appointment by calling the Career Services front desk at (850) 474-2254 or stopping by the Career Services Office in Building 19.
Do you only take one service trip over Spring Break?
Actually, no. Although the biggest trip is taken over Spring Break, we actually do other short service breaks throughout the school year. We have students participate in a fall break service trip as well as other one-time service events during the year. In the past, some of the short-term opportunities have included service with the Ronald McDonald House, Escambia Greyhound Rescue, Project Green Shores and much more!
Where have past ASB Spring Break trips been?
All ASB trips are typically within a day or two drive from Pensacola. Over the last few years, ASB trips have traveled to East St. Louis, Illinois, to mentor underprivileged children, Biloxi, Mississippi, to assist in the clean-up after Hurricane Katrina and Washington D.C. in order to gain an understanding of homelessness and serve the homeless population.
Is there a cost for me to attend ASB?
While the university does provide funding toward ASB, this does not cover the entire cost of the trip. Therefore, there is a minimal cost for individuals to attend the Alternative Spring Break trip. Individual cost will vary from year to year according to monies raised through fundraising efforts.
What have previous students said about past ASB trips?
“The most enjoyable part was going to the catholic school and hanging out with the kids. The kids were so happy to have a guest. Everyone wanted to hold my hand or sit by me because they wanted somebody that cared about them. I wanted to show them that many people care about them. It was so rewarding.” -2009 ASB Trip Member
“When I was young, I had a dream to be a teacher. I liked the kids so much. I hope that they will continue to study hard in high school and college. Even though sometimes life is hard, they smiled every day. I will miss them. Their face will always be in my mind.” – 2009 ASB Trip Member
“When I was young, I had a dream to be a teacher. I liked the kids so much. I hope that they will continue to study hard in high school and college. Even though sometimes life is hard, they smiled every day. I will miss them. Their face will always be in my mind.” – 2009 ASB Trip Member
“I enjoyed the diversity of the activities we did throughout the year in ASB - from volunteering to fundraising and hanging out. I gained a lot of valuable experience and great memories.” – 2009 ASB Trip Member