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Community Service

Huskie Alternative Breaks

Alternative Spring BreakNorthern Illinois University's Huskie Alternative Breaks (formally known as Alternative Spring Break) program has been sending students to participate in community service throughout the United States since its founding in 2009, when compassionate Huskies joined together to provide their assistance in the wake of Hurricane Ike in Galveston, Texas.

Since then, the program has dedicated itself to giving its participants a blend of direct volunteer service and exposure to the community, all while creating new and lasting friendships. Huskie Alternative Breaks is now expanding its program from spring break to a year round initiative, offering students the option to attend alternative weekend and summer trips, as well as local volunteer opportunities.

This unique service program at NIU provides students and faculty the opportunity to evaluate our current social issues and seek ways to continually change the world.

Mission

To raise awareness and educate students about social issues by providing an opportunity for alternative breaks that will inspire them to become active members of society and leaders in their communities.

For more information on this years' social issues and locations, please visit the destinations section.

HAB News

Site Leader Applications Now Available!

Are you interested in serving as a HAB Site Leader during the 2013-2014 academic year? The success of each HAB excursion depends heavily upon the quality of its leaders. In fact, strong Site Leaders ensure the success and effectiveness of the program as a whole. It is the responsibility of the Site Leaders to coordinate all on-site activities (with assistance and guidance of HAB Advisor and accompanying Staff Leader), facilitate participant training and education, and ultimately guide the group through a week of intense and rewarding service and learning. As a Site Leader, you have an opportunity to choose the social justice issue as well as the location of one the alternative spring break trips!

If this unique leadership experience is of interest to you, download the application here.