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 2025 Trips
Washington, District of Columbia
Trip Focus: Public Health
Trip Leaders: Shawn Hoppes and McKenzie Nguyen
Trip Dates: March 15th – March 23rd
Explore the capital city of the United States, known for art, architecture, museums, and national monuments, while learning about the intricacies of the world of public health! On this VOLbreak, participants will be volunteering with multiple organizations to learn about social determinants of health (i.e., non-medical factors that impact health outcomes) that relate back to the health of distinct populations. This experience will offer you engaging and fulfilling service projects, informative discussions, and opportunities to reflect and apply your experiences back to your community. Expand your awareness, develop your leadership and teamwork skills, and be part of a solution to worldwide problems.
Asheville, North Carolina
Trip Focus: Disaster Relief
Trip Leaders: Garrett Staley and Colin Zimmer
Trip Dates: March 15th – March 23rd
Join us this spring break for a meaningful trip to Asheville, NC, as we work together to support disaster relief efforts in the community. Led by a passionate team, this trip is an opportunity to make a lasting impact by assisting with rebuilding, recovery, and providing aid to those in need. You’ll connect with like-minded individuals, gain hands-on experience in disaster response, and explore the vibrant culture of Asheville during your downtime. Whether you’re looking to give back, grow personally, or simply spend your spring break making a difference, this trip promises to be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!
Chicago, Illinois
Trip Focus: Youth Development
Trip Leaders: Bella Bartolini and Matt Billings
Trip Dates: March 15th – March 23rd
During this VOLbreak, participants will immerse themselves in the vibrant city of Chicago, focusing on youth development and empowerment! Over nine impactful days, we will collaborate with local organizations dedicated to supporting underserved youth through education, mentorship, and community-building initiatives. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on service projects, from assisting with after-school programs to helping create safe, inspiring spaces where young people can thrive. This experience aims to deepen participants’ understanding of the systemic challenges youth face and highlight the importance of fostering resilience and opportunity in the next generation. Ideal for students passionate about education, equity, and making a positive impact, this trip offers a chance to learn, serve, and grow alongside like-minded peers. Join us in Chicago to make a difference in the lives of young people while exploring one of America’s most dynamic cities!
VOLbreaks Cost & Dates
- March 15 – 23, 2025
- 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