Alternative Service Breaks
Alternative Service Breaks (ASB) is a weeklong service experience where students volunteer alongside community organizations in communities across the country to address critical social issues.
This year, ASB will take place from Saturday, March 8 to Saturday, March 15, 2025.
Are you ready to make a meaningful impact while exploring the spirit of service and camaraderie? Join our Alternative Service Breaks program, where passion meets purpose, and volunteers become the driving force for positive change.
Application Positions
Chairs (Live!)
- Public Relations & Advertising Chairs: Oversee advertising campaigns for volunteer recruitment; propose brand guidelines for the ASB 2025 theme, logo, and all advertisements; design flyers, advertisements, and t-shirts; work with the coordinators to create content and maintain social media presence; communicate the narrative and purpose of ASB to the public at BU and beyond. Two positions available. Chairs will receive full funding for trips and be paid $15/hr. Work study is preferred. Time commitment is approximately 5-7 hours per week. Hiring on a rolling basis. Final deadline is Sep 20, 2024.
- Social Justice & Education Chairs: Educate coordinators and volunteers on how to engage in meaningful and ethical learning service; plan educational Pre-Break materials; coordinate speakers for events, prepare weekly presentations, and maintain the continuous and holistic education of the team. Two positions available. Chairs will receive full funding for trips and be paid $15/hr. Work study is preferred. Time commitment is approximately 5-7 hours per week. Hiring on a rolling basis. Final deadline is Sep 20, 2024.
- Event Management and Recruitment Chair: Work with Program Managers to organize and host info fairs, volunteer recruitment events, pre-break events; organize team building and bonding activities for the ASB leadership team and all of ASB. One position available. Chairs will receive full funding for trips and be paid $15/hr. Work study is preferred. Time commitment is approximately 5-7 hours per week. Hiring on a rolling basis. Final deadline is Sep 20, 2024.
Apply for Chairs
Trip Coordinators (Live!)
Responsible for all aspects of their trip, coordinators work in pairs to lead and plan a detailed itinerary for one ASB trip. They oversee the group’s trip experience, including transportation, reflection activities, and meals coordination.
Two positions available per trip. Unpaid position, but full funding for trips. Time commitment is approximately 2-5 hours per week. Hiring on a rolling basis.
Final deadline is Sep 27, 2024.
Apply for Coordinators
Chaperones (Live!)
The Chaperone assists the Coordinators as needed. The Chaperone should defer to decisions and plans made by the coordinators, help foster group dynamics, observe ASB and BU rules, and help in emergency situations. Chaperones are responsible for financial transactions and must be full-time, exempt BU employees over 21 years old with a valid US Driver’s License and credit card.
Apply for Chaperones
Volunteers
Applications open around Thanksgiving break. Stay tuned!
FAQs
What is the program fee to participate in Alt. Breaks and what does it cover?
Alternative Service Break costs approximately $900 per trip. All payments are non-refundable. Scholarships are available to students who demonstrate financial need. Scholarship applicants must pay a $25 deposit at registration. The program fee covers transportation, housing, meals, materials, and supplies. Fees may differ based on trip type.
Is the program fee refundable?
No. We ask students to commit to these trips knowing the fee is non-refundable.
How will volunteers travel?
Volunteers fly from Boston Logan International Airport. Upon arrival, coordinators and chaperones will rent vehicles.
What will the week schedule look like? Will participants have any free time?
ASB begins with an opening ceremony on the Sunday before the trip. Volunteers do service from Monday to Friday and will have one free day for exploration and activities planned by trip coordinators.
What will the housing and meal situation look like?
Housing and meal arrangements vary by trip. Some trips offer dorm-style or partner housing, while others provide grocery allowances for volunteers.
Who We Are:
Our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, united by the common goal of creating lasting change and leaving a positive imprint on the world. Whether you’re a seasoned advocate for social justice or a newcomer eager to contribute, there’s a place for you in our vibrant volunteer family.
What We Do:
Embark on a transformative journey with us as we engage in hands-on community service projects aimed at addressing pressing social issues. From supporting local schools and assisting environmental initiatives to empowering underserved communities, each project is an opportunity to lend your skills, passion, and compassion to make a real impact.
Why Volunteer with Us:
Meaningful Connections: Forge lasting bonds with like-minded individuals who share your commitment to service and creating change.
Personal Growth: Challenge yourself, step out of your comfort zone, and discover the power of your potential.
Impactful Change: Witness the tangible impact of your efforts as we work together to address the root causes of social issues.
Previous Trip Locations:
Join us in creating lasting change.
Registration closes in mid-February, so please sign up by this deadline to secure your spot. Don’t hesitate to contact the Alternative Service Breaks Program Managers at altbreak@bu.edu or 617-353-4710 if you have any questions or concerns.