Alternative Breaks offers opportunities for students to engage in diverse communities through education and service, providing a quality community-based transformational learning opportunity. AB aligns with UNA’s efforts to educate our students with the knowledge and skills to make a difference in the Shoals community and beyond.

In the 2018 Spring semester, there are three AB trips (1 Winter Break & 2 Spring Break) that will consist of up to 9 student participants, 2 student Site Leaders, and 1 Faculty/Staff Partners. During the trips, teams participate in community service, educational opportunities, daily reflections, leadership development, evening debriefs, and topical discussions; a curriculum that promotes self-awareness, global citizenship and leadership through civic engagement. Each trip team will engage in pre-trip education, preparation, fundraising, and post-trip reflection to ensure a successful and meaningful trip for all stakeholders.

Faculty/Staff Partners serve as a university liaison and risk management support for the student Site Leaders during the breaks. Each trip will have one Faculty/Staff Partner who is trained on AB values and protocol. All Faculty/Staff Partner fees are covered by the AB program, so they are not expected to pay for their selected trip.

Please fill out the following application if you are interested in volunteering as a Faculty/Staff Learning Partner for the 2018 Spring semester. Only full-time university employees are eligible to serve as a Faculty/Staff Learning Partner.

Applications will close on December 4th and Site Leaders will review and contact you before the fall term ends. Should you have any additional questions, please contact Bethany Green in the Office of Student Engagement at bloliver@una.edu.

WINTER BREAK - Animal Welfare (Pittsboro, NC)
Dates: Thursday, February 15th - Sunday, February 18th, 2018
Transportation: University Vans
Description: Lions, tigers, and cougars, oh my! Do you love big cats? If so, you should join us over Winter Break on our trip to the Carolina Tiger Rescue. We'll be working alongside some of nature's most incredible creatures, from leopards to bobcats, and having tons of fun while we're at it! Come on our trip! Feel free to contact us if you have any questions. 
Site Leaders: Natalie Bee (nbee@una.edu) & Shelbey Hughes (shughes4@una.edu)

SPRING BREAK - Government Corruption (Desab, Haiti)
Dates: Friday, March 23rd - Saturday, March 31st, 2018
Transportation: Plane
Description: Ever had the urge to travel but just didn't know how? Or wanted to lend a hand for a greater cause but didn't think you were capable? If so, Haiti is calling your name! This spring, we are heading back to the small village of Desab, Haiti. This community is filled with love and compassion even though they live in vastly different conditions than us with no local water source or indoor plumbing. We will be helping in any way that we can around the area while also interacting with the children and community. If you are even considering the trip, please contact Justin or Marissa for details. Since they have gone on this trip before, they know every fear/concern/question you are thinking.
Site Leaders: Marissa Deal (mdeal@una.edu) & Justin Campbell (jcampbell10@una.edu)

SPRING BREAK - Nutrition in Youth & After School Programs (Asheville, NC)
Dates: Saturday, March 24th - Saturday, March 31st, 2018
Transportation: University Vans
Description: Alternative Breaks is proud to present you with the opportunity to volunteer in the scenic, mountainous city of Asheville, North Carolina! We will be collaborating with a local YMCA focusing on their nutrition programs, after school care, and youth development groups. This combination of programs centers around the education of health and nutrition for adolescents. Be a game changer and apply today!
Site Leaders: Maleni Navarro (lnavarro@una.edu) & Mai Curott (mcurott@una.edu)