Alternative Breaks

An Alternative Break is a professional development opportunity for students to participate in an intensive service experience during a winter, spring, or weekend break. Travel to sites around the Midwest to work with local residents and learn how communities are addressing pressing social issues. Breaks are open to all K-State undergraduate, graduate, and international students.

Upcoming breaks

Spring Break: Saturday, March 14 - Wednesday, March 18
Springfield, Missouri; Dallas, Texas; or Tahlequah, Oklahoma

Choose from one of these locations during K-State's Spring Break. If you have more questions or would like to talk to our team, email altbreak@ksu.edu to schedule an appointment.

Applications for these Alternative Breaks are due by Sunday, March 1.

Springfield, Missouri: Watershed Committee of the Ozarks | Download a printable .JPG flyer for this trip

Get involved in sustainability efforts in Springfield! Explore programs focused on energy conservation, sustainable food production, and environmental conservation. Volunteer with local organizations to gain a comprehensive understanding of how these vital elements work together to create a more sustainable future.

Possible activities:

• Trail maintenance
• Invasive species removal
• Habitat improvement projects
• Native plant nursery projects

Students will also get a first-hand tour of the community to learn more about community members and social context. By exploring the area’s history and opportunities, students gain valuable insight, linking service and learning to real-world impact, while deepening their understanding of community needs.

Dallas, Texas: AIDS Service of Dallas | Download a printable .JPG flyer for this trip

Gain insight into how nonprofit organizations collaborate within healthcare systems to support those living with, impacted by, or at risk for HIV/AIDS. Partner with the ASD, a community organization providing housing, advocacy, and essential support services. Engage in meaningful projects that enhance their mission while building relationships with those they serve.

Past experiences at this site have included:

• Enhancing outdoor community spaces
• Painting and revitalizing shared spaces
• Organizing and maintaining essential facilities
• Engaging with community members through shared experiences

In addition to service, students will explore the broader social and historical context of the community through guided experiences and conversations with local leaders. This immersive learning fosters a deeper understanding of community strengths, systemic challenges, and the role of collaborative service in advancing health equity.

Tahlequah, Oklahoma: Cherokee Nation | Download a printable .JPG flyer for this trip

Partner with Cherokee Nation members to support ongoing community-led efforts that support their mission of enhancing well-being and safe living conditions for all community members. Through collaboration and service, students will engage in meaningful projects while building relationships with Cherokee citizens.

Past experiences at this site have included:

• Engaging in a Cultural Learning Day, building relationships and deepening understanding of local traditions
• Constructing a porch to enhance community gathering spaces
• Staining accessibility ramps to support safe and inclusive mobility for residents

This experience is more than just service—it’s an opportunity to learn alongside the Cherokee community, gaining insight into their rich culture and traditions. Participants will explore the area’s history and future through stories from community members that deepen understanding and mutual respect.

Strengthen your leadership skills

Students often understand a community only from the outside—as citizens, patrons, or visitors—but stepping behind the scenes and engaging in the processes that sustain that community offers a deeper, more powerful form of professional development. Alternative breakers learn through service by preparing, acting, reflecting, and evaluating their experience; this intentional approach goes beyond volunteering to strengthen understanding of community impact while building personal leadership practice.

Fees and scholarships

The participant fee covers transportation via Enterprise Rentals, a grocery/food stipend and housing. Participants and site leaders are eligible for full or partial scholarships to cover the cost of their Alternative Break experience.

Week breaks

• Site Leaders: $125 total ($50 non-refundable + $75)
• Participants: $250 total ($50 non-refundable + $200)

Weekend breaks

• Cost is $10, participants will attend one team meeting prior to service experience.

Requirements

For site leaders

• Complete the application.
• Attend three hours of site leader trainings and one hour of one-on-one preparation with your co-site leader prior to your Alternative Break experience.
• Facilitate one pre-trip meeting with your Alternative Break Team.
• Work alongside staff to facilitate Active Citizen Summit activities with your team.
• Guide your team through daily reflections during the break. ​
• Provide logistical support for your team before and during break (transportation and purchasing).

For participants

• Complete the application.
• Attend Active Citizen Summit, one team meeting prior to break, and Active Citizen Summit Part II and be an engaged participant during all interactions.

 

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