Alternative Breaks
The Center for Civic Engagement & Learning hosts and supports community service trips that enable students to get involved in service beyond Cleveland. Rather than engage in typical break activities, students on Alternative Breaks engage in projects with non-profit organizations and community members in different cities and countries. It is a great way to make a difference, learn about a new place, and meet new people! This year, CCEL will be offering two different alternative spring break trips to New Orleans and Nicaragua (see below). CCEL is also happy to promote additional break programs coordinated by student service organizations and Case affliliated departments.
New Orleans
March 7-13, 2010: A Service Trip to New Orleans
For the past three years, students and community members associated with the Center for Civic Engagement and Learning have traveled to New Orleans to assist with the cleanup and rebuilding necessary after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. The group has worked alongside volunteers from across the nation gutting houses, rebuilding parks and playgrounds, and assisting in a 
food bank.
They have returned with amazing stories of the devastation and the work that still needs to be done. This year, students, staff, faculty, alumni and community members are invited to return in the 2010 Alternative Spring Break to Return, Rebuild and Renew New Orleans. Attend an informational session on Thursday, November 12 from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Hitchcock Lounge of Thwing Center for more information!
Nicaragua
March 6-14, 2010: A Service Trip to Nicaragua
CCEL is pleased to offer a new, international Alternative Break destination to Nicaragua. Students will travel to a rural, coastal community near the town of Chinandega and work with a nonprofit organization called Waves of Hope. Service 
projects will include facilitating activities with the local school, helping to improve community infrastructure through basic construction projects, and working on environmental projects with a local youth group. The trip will provide students with a unique immersion experience that will allow them to better understand Nicaraguan culture and history. The cost of the trip will be approximately $1275 which includes most meals, lodging, in-country transportation and international airfare. For more details, check out our FAQs page, or contact Angela Lowery with specific questions. Applications should be submitted to the CCEL office by December 1, 2009.