Alternative Winter Break

Alternative Winter Break (AWB) offers one international trip and one domestic trip where participants strengthen communities.

These trips, occurring during the academic winter break, focus on many different social issues like education, affordable housing, environmental, and much more. Students learn to become citizens of the world through strong direct service and reflection. They also connect with other students who are looking to make a difference.

Students who are selected to serve on the trips participate in biweekly pre-trip meetings throughout fall semester to learn about the social issues involved, as well as the language and culture of the communities they will be serving (on international trips). Students also receive a free day during each trip to explore the local communities and enjoy the sites!

Please note that all international trips require a valid passport. If you are an international student, please research the visa/travel requirements as needed.

2025 Trips

All applicants for international trips must have a reference form filled out by an ISU staff or faculty member, a graduate assistant, or a student staff member (such as an RA or student manager) to be considered for participation. Please have your reference fill out this form. Thank you!

International

January 1-11, 2025 Redbirds will travel to Costa Rica to serve in a rural community outside of San Miguel de Sarapiquí. The group will stay with a host family nearby the service site. Service may include building cement stoves, repairing porches, building stairs, and much more. The group will have two free days which may include a visit to a local hot spring, a tour of a coffee farm, or zip lining.

Domestic

January 5-11, 2025. Redbirds will travel to Appalachia to serve with Appalachia Service Project. Spend your time outside of the classroom giving back– ASP alternative break trips combine education, service, immersion, and social justice programming through home repair projects.  Types of work will include roofing, drywall, siding, floor and foundation repair, and building porches and ramps. There will be free time to explore the area.

Applications are available here.