ABSTRACT
Whether it's with shovels in hand, pen to paper, high fives, cutting boards and carrots, or walking the same path together, students who participate in alternative breaks work side by side with the members of the communities who host them, and with each other. At its best, this work is productive, harmonious, and strong because of the connection between all involved. No matter what shape it takes, when work is done by alternative breakers, it can spark critical learning about local and global systems, and inform students’ efforts to address social issues collaboratively and through relationships. Working side by side develops students’ leadership by equipping them with tools and techniques to make change and to enlist others in their efforts. Such work contributes to the larger goal of positive social change, as alternative breakers and community members create a society in which all people can live to their full potential, with dignity and equality.
