About Alternative Spring Break

What is UMaine's Alternative Spring Break Program?

The mission of UMaine's Alternative Spring Break Program is to promote service on the local, regional, national and international levels through break-oriented programs which immerse students in different cultures, heighten social awareness and advocate lifelong social action. Since March 1998, we have sent groups each spring break to sites outside Maine, including South Carolina, West Virginia, Ohio, Michigan, Tennessee, New York and Washington, DC. Volunteers have built houses for low income families, worked with troubled and at-risk youth, served meals, helped organize NYC's annual AIDS Walk, participated in an urban peace program and helped the elderly.

UMaine's ASB program is an official BreakAway Chapter and we adhere to the eight essential components of a quality spring break.

Why Volunteer?

Education—Living in a different region of the country or culture, even for a week, provides learning opportunities beyond the classroom.

Fun—A commitment to community service does not translate into selfless personal sacrifice and hardship. You will quickly find that ASB is more fun than work!

New friendships—Participants rave about the friends they have made in the communities they have visited and the friends they have met through close group interaction. Many keep in touch and even return for visits.

Personal satisfaction—One of the greatest feelings in the world is the ability to look back at a week of hard work, knowing that your efforts have made a difference.

How can I get involved?

If you are interested in being a part of UMaine's Alternative Spring Break program or would like more information, contact Rebecca Workman on First Class or e-mail/call Audra Grady, 581-4194.

ASB application forms will also be available at The Bodwell Center for Service and Volunteerism in Hannibal Hamlin Hall, 3rd Floor, in early September of each academic year.

Check out the Alternative Spring Break folder on First Class.