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To engage University of Wyoming students in service-learning across a diverse range of subjects and locations.
The goals of UW Alternative Breaks are:
Community Development
Petersfield, Jamaica
In the sugar producing parish of Westmoreland, students will have the opportunity to work with the Petersfield Galloway Benevolent Society with a focus on cultural immersion, social action, and community-based learning. Participants are uniquely embedded into Jamaican culture through homestays and a wide variety of community engagement activities.
Immigration and Border Issues
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Visit Las Cruces, New Mexico and El Paso, Texas to participate in a border immersion program that is intentionally designed to provide a comprehensive spectrum of views about immigration and the borderlands by speaking with first-generation immigrants, visiting local organizations working with immigrant populations, meeting with government officials to hear about border protection and law enforcement, learning about immigration law, and building an understanding of economic policies and realities affecting people on the border.
Conservation, Stewardship, and Rock Climbing
Lander, Wyoming
Join us for our second Alternative Break partnership with the UW Outdoor Program! Participants will spend time learning and serving with Sinks Canyon State Park and the Wind River Indian Reservation. In addition to serving in the area, students will get to experience some of Lander's world-class rock climbing! Instruction and gear is all provided and no previous climbing experience is necessary.
Affordable Housing
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Spend your break learning about the history and culture of Santa Fe while volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. Santa Fe Habitat for Humanity promotes affordable homeownership for Santa Fe area residents by constructing simple, adequate, and energy efficient new homes and repairing or rehabilitating existing homes through the cooperative efforts of partner families, volunteers, donors, and staff.
Youth Environmental Education
Boulder Creek, California
Work with a leading nonprofit camp in the heart of the beautiful California Redwoods to strengthen communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Volunteers take an active role in bringing about meaningful, enduring change in children and families. Participants will work with the camp's Outdoor Science School, where young students experience the thrill of nature through hands-on lessons and activities.
Who can participate in the Alternative Breaks program?
You must be a full time UW student in good academic and disciplinary standing to participate in the Alternative Breaks program.
How much does it cost?
The trips are being offered for free this year! This includes transportation, lodging, admission and program fees, and most meals. The only out-of-pocket expenses you would have are some meals on travel days, incidentals like snacks or coffee, and any souvenirs or other items you choose to purchase.
What if I sign up for a trip and decide not to go later?
In most cases, if you decide to withdraw from the program after February 1, a charge will be assessed to your student account. More information about this is provided on the application.
Are there any COVID-related requirements?
There are no requirements specific to the program. However, some of the partner organizations that we work with have their own requirements that all participants must meet. More information about this is provided on the application.
What paperwork will I need to complete?
The application includes the standard UW liability release and model/photo release forms. Once you are accepted you will need to fill out additional paperwork including a participant agreement, medical information, and an emergency contact form. This must be completed in order to secure your spot on the trip.
What else is required of participants?
All participants are expected to attend all pre-departure meetings and a post-trip reflection session. Participants are also expected to stay in regular communication with their team leader(s); this means responding to phone calls and/or emails within 48 hours. If a participant is not meeting these requirements, they will receive a warning from SLCE staff. If this continues to be an issue, they will be removed from the trip and any payments already made will not be refunded. While on the trip, all participants are expected to represent UW, SLCE, and the Alternative Breaks program in a positive manner. This includes abiding by the UW student code of conduct, The Alternative Breaks drug and alcohol policy, rules and policies of the host organization, and the direction of team leaders. Students who choose not to behave in accordance with this expectation will be sent home at their own expense.
But I am 21, can I drink alcohol on the trip?
No. See the Drug and Alcohol policy at the bottom of the webpage.
I have a friend in (insert trip destination here). Can I spend one night with them?
No. Participants are expected to participate fully in all activities and to spend their time with the group during the trip. While there may be some free time, it is generally limited.
Can I arrange my own transportation and meet the group at the trip destination?
No. All participants will travel with the group.
Do you accommodate medical concerns, food preferences, etc?
We do our best to accommodate all students. However, due to the nature of these trips, what we are able to promise varies from student to student and trip to trip. If you have particular concerns you are encouraged to contact SLCE staff before submitting your application.
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