Alternative Spring Break is a program that sends students on short-term service-learning trips with the aim of inspiring continued service and reflection once students return to campus. The program is in its third year at Southern Oregon University, with more than 30 student participants and three trips this year. Critics often wonder if the money spent on travel and lodging might be better spent on local volunteer projects or simply donated to agencies. Research from established alternative break programs and the experience at SOU over the past three years shows that emphasis on education and reflection in a group context helps to encourage alternative break participants to continue a life of service once they return to campus. Alternative Spring Break 2010 participants will share their experiences working with the homeless in Portland, at-risk youth in Los Angeles, and University of Guanajuato partners in Mexico.