Alternative Breaks

Engage with community issues through service

Alternative Breaks is an opportunity for K-State students to participate in an intensive service experience during your winter, spring, and weekend breaks. Travel to sites around the midwest where you will work with local residents to learn how communities are addressing pressing social issues. Breaks are open to K-State undergraduate, graduate, and international students. Participants and site leaders will receive training before the trip.

Upcoming Alternative Breaks

Spring Break | March 15-20 | Applications due March 2
Download a PDF flyer for these trips

Tahlequah, Oklahoma
Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma

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 have the opportunity to explore the communities’ history and future through listening to stories of community members that deepen understanding and mutual respect.

Dallas, Texas
AIDS Services of Dallas (ASD)

Gain insight into how nonprofit organizations collaborate within healthcare systems to support individuals and families 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 opportunity fosters a deeper understanding of community strengths, systemic challenges, and the role of collaborative service in advancing health equity.

Strengthen your leadership skills

Alternative breakers learn through service. You will be challenged to prepare, act, reflect, and evaluate your service experience. This approach to service is more than volunteering, it allows you to better understand community impact and builds your 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.

About Our Locations

 

K-State is a member of Break Away. Break Away's mission is to train, assist and connect campuses and communities in promoting quality alternative break programs that inspire lifelong active citizenship.