Alternative Breaks: Leadership & Service in Minnesota

At CU Boulder, I co-led an Alternative Breaks trip to Minnesota -definitely one of the most meaningful things I've done in college. Before the trip, I went through a semester-long leadership training, filled with workshops, reflection activities, and pairing exercises to make sure co-leads were a good fit and got assigned a trip that suited their strengths.

I was paired with another student leader, and we were assigned to work with One Heartland, a nonprofit that creates safe, inclusive camp experiences for LGBTQ+ youth and kids affected by HIV/AIDS or homelessness.

We drove from Boulder to Minnesota (yes, two full days in a van!) and spent a week volunteering on-site; making kits, sorting clothes, creating greeting cards, and getting their space ready for summer campers.

Every night, we had team reflections that brought us all closer - lots of honest conversations, laughs, and learning moments. We cooked meals together, looked out for each other, and created a space where everyone felt safe and heard.

All in all, it was a powerful mix of service, leadership, and community, and honestly, it helped me come out of my shell in ways I didn't expect. Definitely an experience I'll never forget.