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Alternative Spring Break

students at rework site

Alternative Spring Break (ASB) is an opportunity for CSUSM students volunteer their week of Spring Break to work with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity. During this week, students travel to a location outside of San Diego County and help with various duties where needed. These students also take part in numerous excursions to explore the area in which they are visiting. This trip is substance free, adding to the "alternative" part of Spring Break. 

The Alternative Spring Break program was established in the Spring of 2003 by Lawrence Bolton, a Professional Staff member at the time. He recommended the program after being inspired by similar initiatives at other 23 California State University colleges. The inaugural program involved volunteer work in San Francisco's Tenderloin district, where participants provided meals for those facing housing insecurity

 Come join us this year as we travel and engage in volunteer work!

Student Experiences:

ASB is one of the most impacting experiences that I've come across throughout my three years here at CSUSM. If you enjoy volunteering and doing good for the world around you, and the people, then you'll love ASB! -Hannah Hawker, Junior

If you're looking to give back to the community in a unique way, ASB is an option for you then as you feel great about what you've done and knowing you have helped a family who can't own a home own one and a beautiful one at that. -Steven Aguilar, Freshman

ASB is the best way to spend spring break. Being able to help people in need is one of the most amazing feelings and ASB does that in a fun and memorable way. When we were not working, we were explore Washington D.C. and making strong friendships. Going on Alternative Spring Break is an opportunity you don't want to miss! -Veronique Fisher, Sophomore 

Hear more insights on past trips

                            2025 Location!

                                      Loveland, Colorado 

Alternative Spring Break 2025 Info Sessions

Information Sessions: October 10th & 15th, 2024 at 12:00pm-1:00pm

If you missed the infomramtion sessions and want more info please refer to our PowerPoint Presentation

Volunteer Application 

Application Process

Application Opens: Monday, August 26th, 2024
Application Closes: Thursday, November 7th, 2024

All participants must be in good standing with the CSUSM Dean of Students and must have a 2.0 GPA

Group Interviews: November 18-21, 2024
Individual Interviews (if chosen): November 25th & 26th, 2024
   
   Mandatory Pre Trip Travel Meetings:
   - Thursday, December 12th 12PM-1PM
   - Thursday, January 23rd 12PM-1PM
   - Thursday, February 6th 12PM-1PM
   - Thursday, February 27th 12PM-1PM
   - Thursday, March 27th 12PM-1PM

Volunteer Application

Additional Application Information

  Applicants who are chosen will be required to make a $100 deposit to reserve their spot.

Past Trips

Living Lands and Waters 

  • 2016 – Memphis, TN

Habitat for Humanity Collegiate Challenge

  • 2025 - Loveland, Colorado
  • 2024 - Bel Air, Maryland 
    • Photos
  • 2023 - Tacoma, WA
  • 2020 - Vail, CO - Cancelled 
  • 2019 - Tacoma, WA
  • 2018 - New Castle County, DE
  • 2017 - Tacoma, WA
  • 2015 – Oklahoma City, OK
  • 2014 – Washington, D.C.
  • 2013 – Washington, D.C.
  • 2012 – Washington, D.C.
  • 2011 – Washington, D.C.
  • 2010 – New Orleans, LA
  • 2009 – Cleveland, OH
  • 2008 – New Orleans, LA
  • 2007 – New Orleans, LA
  • 2006 – Oakland, CA

GLIDE Organization

  • 2005 – San Francisco, CA
  • 2004 – San Francisco, CA