Alternative Break Program
WCU Students serve LGBTQ+ communities in Pittsburgh
WCU Students serve with Habitat for Humanity in North Carolina
WCU Students serve with community gardens in Philadelphia
Join the Movement!
The Alternative Break program brings together WCU students from various backgrounds, identities, and communities for an experience unlike any other! Students will explore what it means to be active citizens by immersing themselves in meaningful service and cultural exploration as they travel to a new community across the nation during a University break. Through this program, students will be equipped with the skills and drive to continue their journey as active citizens in the West Chester community and beyond.
Out of an abundance of caution and concern for the health and safety of our students and community partners, there will be no Alternative Break Trips until further notice.
Alternative Break Video
"Prior to this service trip, I felt like I was on the outside looking in with opinions and theories. Now, I have experience and a willingness to understand, learn, serve, and be a part of the communities. Anywhere I choose, I am the community."
- Alternative Break Participant
Alternative Break Resources
- 8 Components of a Quality Alternative Break Program
- Active Citizen Continuum
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The Movement
The Movement
The Alternative Break movement has substantially grown within the last 10 years. During the 2017-2018 academic year, WCU will be offering 5 domestic trips (5 spring break trips and one summer trip). WCU’s Alternative Break program is a proud member of Break Away, a national organization which trains university staff and students on organizing service-learning trips worldwide.
All Alternative Break trips at WCU follow the 8 Components of a Quality Alternative Break Program and utilize The Active Citizen Continuum — a developmental model that illustrates the process of becoming a lifelong active citizen. The Office of Service-Learning and Volunteer Programs leads workshops about this process for student leaders and academic service-learning courses.
Scholarship Opportunities
In addition to fundraising efforts, there are several scholarship opportunities to assist students attending Alternative Break trips with covering some of the trip expenses. Check back in the Fall for the scholarship application!
For scholarship information regarding international trips, visit the Global Engagement Office website or contact studyabroad@wcupa.edu.