Campus Ministry offers a variety of sites for undergraduate students to make a difference and have fun on an Alternative Spring Break. The year-long program provides the opportunity to engage in complex social and cultural issues through direct service, group discussion, experiential learning and individual reflection. While on an Alternative Spring Break, students share their perspectives regarding society, have the chance to make an impact and engage in new experiences. In the Holy Cross tradition of service, our hope is that students are transformed by the experience, becoming agents of change in the world.
The White Mountain Apaches are a people with a great history in the Southwest and continue their life today in keeping with their cultural heritage. You can be a part of this living history. In coordination with a local church, participants explore areas of Native American life, volunteer in a number of community programs and participate in traditional celebrations including a sweat lodge.
Through the experience, participants live in solidarity with the recent immigrants while working with local organizations that provide housing and assistance. The goal is to provide a hands-on experience and relationship-building across both cultural and physical borders. Immigration Court hearings, a border tour, and a dialogue with Customs and Border Protection enable participants to reflect on global issues such as economics, poverty and scarce food and water resources as they relate to our neighbors.
Despite the changing times, many LGBTQ youth still feel ostracized and are more likely to become homeless, attempt suicide and fall victim to violence. Working with organizations who create safe spaces for youth, you'll learn how to become a better bridge builder in creating a world where everyone's human dignity is respected. You'll also work with local agencies to learn about the social, economic and physical complexities that surround HIV and AIDS.
Hebrews 13:2 says "and remember always to welcome strangers, for by doing this, some people have entertained angels without knowing it." Working with a variety of nonprofit organizations serving former gang members, people who are experiencing homelessness and at-risk youth; you'll have the chance to learn about the complex issues facing urban life.
The Gulf Coast has been hit with some hard times in the last few years including Hurricane Katrina and The Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. Tens of thousands of volunteers have flooded the area in the rebuilding efforts, but more work needs to be done. Currently, organizations are shifting their efforts to create opportunity housing to meet the important needs of life-rebuilding. You'll visit, volunteer and learn from local non-profit organizations leading the efforts for recovery.
You'll work side-by-side with other volunteers, Holy Cross religious and guests to make a difference. Among the opportunities you can do at André House:
Life in the "big city" isn't always easy. In fact, urban poverty is a multidimensional phenomenon affecting health, food security, elder care, education, etc. You will visit, volunteer and learn from non-profits on the ground working for change in their communities.
"Si Se Puede!" has long been the motto of farmworkers. We can together build communities where people have equal access to education, especially those who toil for our daily bread. In collaboration with an educational nonprofit, you'll come to understand the challenges faced by migrant youth, visit job sites and work together to create a program where you'll learn from each other.
"Opportunity Homes" are finally being built after the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina and the rebuilding of the community is happening in new ways. You can help to renew the face of the Gulf Coast and bring housing to a family in need! Habitat for Humanity provides on-site training and learning opportunities so no construction skills or experience are required.
During the week-long service immersion you'll explore issues of urban poverty, justice and the reality of oppression. Through various service partnerships with local agencies and a school participants challenge stereotypes and fears and break down barriers that “protect” us from the unknown. Participants meet people from organizations working to make a difference, have cross-cultural experiences and engage in daily communal reflection.
For more information, contact Liza Manjarrez.
