Spring VOLbreaks is a week-long service and community immersion opportunity during the university’s spring break in which participants travel to help meet community needs. Participants examine the root causes of the social issues they work with through pre-trip education and reflection during the trip. Students meet with their teams two to three times prior to departure in March and one time after the trip.
Past participants have traveled to Atlanta, GA, Chicago, IL, New Orleans, LA, and more. Students will also enjoy a free afternoon/evening during their trip to enjoy the sights in their host city. This structure allows students to get to know a community and its residents on a deeper level, to have a lasting impact. Each VOLbreaks group typically includes 10–12 total participants, two VOLbreaks Leaders (VBLs), and one faculty/staff Learning Partner.
Spring Offerings:
Spring VOLbreak – Disaster Relief in Western North Carolina
Price: Free!
Trade the usual spring break routine for a week of purpose, connection, and service on a VOLbreak trip to western North Carolina!
During the week, you’ll volunteer alongside local nonprofits and assist with hands-on service projects focused on the multifaceted nature of disaster relief and food insecurity. This experience offers the opportunity to support ongoing community efforts while learning directly from organizations and leaders working on the ground.
This trip is about showing up with intention, giving back, and building genuine connections with the people and places we serve. You’ll spend time reflecting on the impact of service, strengthening relationships with fellow Vols, and gaining a deeper understanding of just how complex these social issues are through real-world experience.
Whether you’re passionate about service or simply looking to try something new, this trip is a powerful way to grow, connect, and make a difference alongside other UT students.
Highlights:
- Work and engage with other UT students eager to restore western North Carolina and the surrounding communities.
- Assist local organizations and citizens to help North Carolina recover from the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene.
- Provide direct service to communities in need.
Spring VOLbreak – Poverty and Hunger in Cincinnati, OH
Price: $450
Join us for a meaningful spring break VOLbreak trip to Cincinnati, Ohio, where students will engage in service focused on poverty and hunger.
Participants will partner with the Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition, working alongside local organizations that support individuals and families experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. Students will experience Cincinnati’s strong sense of community and place. Whether you are interested in learning from local organizations, exploring a new city, or building connections with fellow Volunteers, this trip offers something for everyone.
Along the way, you will connect with fellow Vols, reflect on your experiences, and return to campus with a deeper understanding of service and community impact.
Highlights:
- Serve and learn alongside other UT students passionate about alleviating poverty through education, advocacy, and organizing.
- Partner with the Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition, working with local homeless shelters, soup kitchens, after-school programs, and various local government organizations.
- Provide direct service to individuals experiencing homelessness in the Cincinnati community.
Spring VOLbreak – Youth Development in Memphis, Tennessee
Price: Free!
If you are passionate about working with young people and making a positive impact in your community, this is the trip for you! We will be traveling to Memphis, Tennessee, a vibrant city known for its rich history, culture, and strong sense of community.
During this trip, we will be partnering with local youth-focused organizations to support programs centered on education, mentorship, and community empowerment. Our work may include assisting with after-school programs, helping with community projects, and supporting spaces that provide safe, supportive environments for young people to learn and grow.
Join us on this trip to learn more about youth development, connect with inspiring community leaders, build meaningful relationships, and experience everything Memphis has to offer!
Highlights:
- Learn and serve with other UT students passionate about youth empowerment.
- Work with Serve901, engaging with the history, people, and culture of Memphis, Tennessee, while making a positive impact.
- Obtain first-hand experience working with youth and with nonprofit organizations.
VOLbreaks Cost & Dates
- Spring VOLbreaks trips take place over Spring Break as defined by the academic calendar for the year.
- The VOLbreaks participant fee is dependent on trip location and calculated based on food and travel costs. Each trip cost will be represented in the trip description on VOLink. Find out more about VOLbreaks scholarships.
Important Details
- Due to the nature of the VOLbreaks program and the necessity for early planning and purchasing of supplies, cancellations are not permitted, and refunds will not be awarded. If a student has a medical or family emergency and cannot attend their VOLbreak program, cases will be considered on an individual basis for a refund to be considered, and documentation is required in an email to leadserve@utk.edu. If no documentation is provided, an absent participant will be marked as a “No Show” and their trip registration fees will not be refunded.
- Switching a registration to another trip is not permitted, and would only be considered with extenuating circumstances and if space is available on the desired trip. Eligible trip switches will be made for a $25 processing fee. The $25 processing fee will be placed on the student’s MyUTK account.
Questions, Concerns, or Needs for Accommodation?
Check out FAQs or reach out to us at leadserve@utk.edu or 865-974-1039