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 sites 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 2026 Trip Details Coming Soon!
VOLbreaks Cost & Dates
- March 7 – 15, 2026
- Registration will open in late January
- The trip registration is $250
- Registration fee includes housing accommodations, transportation to service sites and excursions, meals, a t-shirt, and program materials.
Important Details
- Limited parking passes are available upon request and provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking requests made after February 24th may not be granted.
- 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