The University of Tennessee has held VOLbreaks community service trips for students since 1993.  VOLbreaks are trips, typically held over fall, winter, and spring breaks, where students engage with various social issues through service and education. All trips are student-planned and led. By participating in a VOLbreaks trip, students will develop empathy, examine their assumptions, explore social problems and their root causes, and strive to become active citizens in their own communities.

VOLbreaks Leaders (VBLs) are the back bone of planning a VOLbreaks trip. VBL responsibilities include researching a trip theme, coordinating with a community partner for the group to serve alongside, planning nightly reflection activities, and planning a reorientation event for their participants. VBLs are required to participate in a training program to prepare them for the above responsibilities.

All VBLs are required to attend VBL Training throughout the fall semester.

If you have any questions, contact Grace Hicks, VOLbreaks Educational Specialist, at gracehicks@utk.edu