Ecologue

The Center for Civic Engagement is now accepting applications for their Alternative Spring Break Program! Having started in the early 1980s, these trips focus on engaging students in non-profit service that focuses on social issues like poverty, hunger, homelessness, immigration rights and the environment. Students immerse themselves in an opportunity that allows them to grow and focus on sustainable social change.

This year there will be three alternative spring trips for March 21 – 28:

• Hunger & Homelessness in San Francisco, California, Estimated Trip Cost: $445  (includes 4 dinners and breakfast)
• Community & Cultural Engagement in Yakima, Washington, Estimated Trip Cost: $145  (includes 4 dinners)
• Environmental  Restoration & Conservation: Ashland, Oregon, Estimated Trip Cost: $ 220 (includes 4 dinners)

This year’s trip to Ashland, Oregon will focus on environmental conservation and restoration issues in Ashland, Oregon. Participants will complete environmental restoration projects such as creek restoration, planting native plants, mulching, invasive species removal, fertilizing, trail building/maintenance, and restoring bird habitats with a variety of community organizations. Participants will meet with local environmental leaders to learn about threats to the natural environment and local legislation that is impacting natural habitats and ecosystems.

There are many benefits of participating in an Alternative Break. Students will have the opportunity to:

• Engage in meaningful service to impact change related to an issue you care about
• Learn about and reflect upon the complexity and interconnectedness of social issues and problems
• Improve your leadership, critical thinking, problem solving, and dialogue skills in dynamic real world contexts
• Learn about options for continuing community engagement work upon your return to OSU
• Build meaningful relationships and a new community of civic-minded OSU students
• Travel to and learn about regional communities
• Learn about and explore new perspectives
• Develop skills in negotiating multiple perspectives, viewpoints, and stakeholders’ interests in decision making and actions
• Develop an increased capacity to work across differences to build communities
• Gain valuable experience for your resume
• Learn about yourself, challenge yourself, and have fun

Take a look here to learn about the impact made by last year’s Alternative Break students.

Applications are due Monday December 1, 2014 by 5pm online or to the Student Leadership & Involvement information desk in Snell 149. Students can learn more about the alternative break program, download the application packet, or apply online here.