Alternative Breaks

Alternative Breaks are immersive service experiences designed to introduce students to new communities while working to address pressing domestic and global social issues. Participating in an Alternative Break is a great way to get to know other students, make a positive impact, and have a meaningful fall or spring break! Check out this year’s programs and click on the links for each community partner to learn more:

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Accepting Spring Applications for Richmond, Charleston and Savannah on a Rolling Basis

Fall Break 2024 (October 10-12, 2024)

*Scholarships are available for all Fall Break programs

Food Justice/Environmental Sustainability (Asheville, NC): Engage in direct service with Asheville GreenWorks, Root Cause Farm, and Bounty & Soul while learning about food insecurity and sustainability efforts in western North Carolina. Student fee is $150. This program has been cancelled due to the effects of Hurricane Helene. 

Urban Housing & Homelessness (Charlotte, NC): Learn about housing and homelessness in an urban context in North Carolina’s largest city. Students will volunteer with organizations like Charlotte Family Housing and Furnish for Good and interact with Elon Charlotte students. Student fee is $150.

Spring Break 2025

*Scholarships are available for all Spring Break programs

Community Development (Costa Rica) – March 15-22, 2025: Work with Cultural Connections & Volunteers to complete small construction projects in a small, rural Costa Rican community. Student fee is $1,500. This program is full! 

Diversity and Inclusion in Education (LGBTQIA focus) (Richmond, VA) – March 16-22, 2025: Spend a week in Richmond volunteering with organizations that support and advocate for diverse populations. Work with Diversity Richmond, the Virginia Home for Boys & Girls and Soar365. Student fee is $300.

Environmental Sustainability (Charleston, SC) – March 16-21, 2025: Engage in direct service with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, The Green Heart Project and the Sustainability Institute to support sustainability, conservation, and environmental justice efforts in Charleston. Student fee is $300.

Urban Food Security (Savannah, GA) – March 16-22, 2025: Learn about and support efforts to fight food insecurity and hunger in Savannah. Volunteer with organizations including Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia, Healthy Savannah, and the Forsyth Farmers Market. Student fee is $300.

    Alternative Break Frequently Asked Questions 

    Staff and Faculty Learning Partner Expectations and Frequently Asked Questions

    Elon Alternative Breaks is a proud member of Break Away, a national organization supporting alternative break programs at campuses across the country. We integrate Break Away’s 8 Components of a Quality Alternative Break into our program model.

    For questions about Alternative Breaks, contact Andrew Moffa at amoffa@elon.edu.