The Alternative Break Program is a student run organization dedicated to providing Grinnell students with the opportunity to travel as members of an intentional community of service such that they may experience new perspectives, develop leadership skills, and practice cooperation through educational and hands-on community service during college breaks. Thus we organize student-led service trips for both fall and spring break that go to cities all over the country and neighboring countries.

While our primary focus is on poverty issues, we also work with environmental, health, elderly, and kids programs. Work often includes soup kitchens, homeless shelters, after-school programs, painting, construction, trail clearing, clinics and HIV/AIDS programs.

"I really think I gained hope in the world. Before, I always thought of poverty, homelessness and HIV/AIDS as problems that were out of control and nothing could really be done about them. Now I realize that there are a lot of good people out there bonding together everyday to make a difference, one step at a time. After seeing that, I want to try to be a part of that for the rest of my life" -Spring 2000 participant


Email Alt Break

Grinnell Alternative Break Website