Alternative Spring Break (ASB) trips are student-run week long volunteer service trips designed to challenge students and combat civic issues underlying larger societal concerns-- such as homelessness, health care, animal welfare and the environment. Our UMBC ASB trips will teach students the power of service and leave them with a sense of camaraderie, compassion, and empathy for the people of the world, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic status.
This year the Student Life is proud to offer 4 ASB trips to choose from:
Gesundheit! Institute Trip: This ASB trip to the Gesundheit Institute in beautiful West Virginia will allow students to delve deeper into alternative healthcare system. Participants will be given the opportunity to make a difference, learn about Patch Adam’s philosophy of laughter and life while reflection on yourself, and give back to the community. (Led by Tina and Lisa)
Homelessness Trip: This ASB trip is designed to educate participants about the plight of homelessness in the hopes of eliminating stigma and uncovering the intricate complexities of homelessness. Participants will work with local organizations and interact with Baltimore’s population experiencing homelessness while reflecting and implementing small change projects. (Led by Markya and Megan)
Public Health Trip:This ASB Trip focuses on public health, including helping with free clinics or various health-focused non-profit organizations. Participants will learn about the current state of healthcare in Maryland, social factors that can affect health, populations that suffer from health disparities, and reflect on how they can change the public health. (Led by Poulomi and Neyo)
ARC Trip: This educational ASB trip is focused on populations of people with intellectual and physical disabilities. Participants will spend time each day at the ARC of Carroll County developing relationships with clients, learning about the population, and dispelling stereotypes and stigma. (Led by Simin and Cami)
Please note that there is a fee to participate in ASB ($75-$200) depending on the trip location, fundraising, etc. This money goes directly into paying the operational costs of the trip and nothing else. The exact fee will be calculated once the trip planning is complete. Fundraising and scholarship opportunities will be available.
Apply now! Applications are due Sunday November 16th at midnight.
ASB participant application:
