Heathyr Johnson Volunteers for KU's Alternative Breaks Program

2013 Jan 24

Ninety-eight students from the University of Kansas spent part of their winter breaks volunteering across the nation, including Heathyr Johnson, of Olathe.

Johnson, a sophomore in English education, volunteered with Teach for America from Jan. 12-20. Teach for America in Chicago trains and places teachers in low-income communities to work to ensure that all children, regardless of background, can receive an excellent education. Participants assist first- and second-year Teach for America teachers in undersourced Chicago schools. Participants are placed in a variety of urban schools in order to observe classroom dynamics, aid teachers and work with the students themselves.

KU's student-run Alternative Breaks program centers on service-learning trips that provide opportunities for students to include volunteer efforts in their educational experiences. KU Alternative Breaks places a strong emphasis on education and personal growth and encourages students to continue their service work beyond the break itself.

Following their admittance to the program, students attended weekly classes to prepare for their Alternative Winter Break sites. The classes provided more information about the role of a volunteer, how the nonprofit sector works, social justice issues and the importance of diversity and cultural awareness.

The program was established at KU in 1995 with a spring break trip to El Paso, Texas, under the direction of Professor Glen White in partnership with KU students. Since 1995, it has expanded to include fall, winter, summer and weekend breaks.

An Alternative Winter Break counts as one honors unit for the University Honors Program, and, if taken as a class, can count toward service learning certification. The program costs participants $275 ($225 for site leaders) and covers their transportation, housing and meals.

To learn more, visit www.kualternativebreaks.com.