Civic Engagement Program
Alternative Spring Break
Do you know what you're doing for Spring Break yet?
Southern Oregon University's Alternative Breaks, sponsored by the Civic Engagement Program, give students an inside view of social issues by living, working and playing alongside local agencies devoted to improving their communities. Trip members travel in groups of 10 to 15 and learn about topics such as poverty, immigration, environmentalism and more through hands-on service, education and reflection. Sign up for a trip today and prepare to be inspired!
Information sessions:
» Monday, Nov. 2 at 4 p.m. in SU 330
» Wednesday, Nov. 4 at 8 p.m. in Cascade — Hawthorne Classroom
APPLICATIONS ARE DUE NOV. 13, 2009
Download an application here:
» Student application
» Site leader application
» Staff/faculty application
Spring Break 2010 Trip Descriptions
JOIN PDX (web site) Cost: $200
Oregon has the highest rate of homelessness in the country according to a government report released in July 2009. Many homeless Oregonians end up at JOIN, an agency that helps homeless families find permanent housing in Portland. Students on this trip will stay at JOIN and get an insiders' perspective on homelessness and poverty by getting to know clients and staff at various homeless agencies, soup kitchens and Dignity Village, the only legal campsite in Portland's city limits.
Outward Bound Los Angeles (web site)
Cost: $400
Outward Bound Los Angeles works with at-risk urban youth through environmental projects and education, providing them opportunities to escape the urban jungle and experience a world unknown to many of their peers. Outward Bound's programs are designed to promote positive self-development, environmental responsibility and exposure to outdoor careers. Trip members will help develop environmental curriculum and work alongside a crew of inner-city youth to create and maintain hiking trails and campgrounds. We will also get a chance to explore both the urban and rural LA area.
Universidad de Guanajuato (web site)
Cost: $1,100
Get an intimate view of Mexican culture through a visit to SOU's sister campus, Universidad de Guanajuato. Participants will receive tours of the university and surrounding city, participate in various service projects and get to know locals living, working and attending school in Guanajuato. Spanish language ability is a definite plus on this trip.
For more information, contact Civic Engagement Coordinator Julie French at frenchju@sou.edu.
