Alternative Spring Break (ASB) leaders will help develop plans and learning opportunities for the week of UMBC's Spring Break, and will work in collaboration with the other leaders and Center for Democracy and Civic Life staff to create a holistic, empowering ASB experience for all participants. The role requires both independence (being a self-starter, organizing group sessions, guiding participants) and teamwork (following through on commitments, cooperating with other leaders and Center for Democracy and Civic Life staff, asking for help when needed). The topics each group explores will emerge from leaders’ curiosity about Baltimore and social issues. 

All undergraduate students are invited to apply. Preferred but not required: Applicants will have participated in ASB or a similar multi-day experiential learning program. 

Past leaders have explored a variety of questions, such as: 

- How do people who have been formerly incarcerated transition back to living and working in Baltimore? What can be done to support that transition?  

- What are the difficulties and barriers that people experiencing homelessness face in Baltimore and what can be done to mitigate those issues? 

- How are food disparities created, perpetuated, and challenged in Baltimore? 

- How do the arts support community empowerment and well-being in Baltimore? 

Applicants can choose to explore those questions or propose new ones.

Ideally group leaders will work in pairs (two leaders for each group, sharing responsibilities). You can identify your potential partner when you apply or we can propose matches for you. Working in pairs is not a requirement, but in our experience it works very well.