Student participants show off their masks as they prepare to gut homes for ACORN, an organization located in New Orleans dedicated to cleaning and rebuilding homes in low-income neighborhoods.

Alternative Break Encore

During Alternative Break, participants move from being enthusiastic volunteers to becoming lifelong active citizens and effective agents for social change. Participants examine root issues of social injustice and connect with both local and national communities through direct service in a substance-free environment. "Alternative Break Encore " is used to describe the experience throughout the entire process, from planning the event through continued efforts afterwards. The objective of Alternative Break Encore is to help participants develop the skills and motivation to continue to make a positive impact in the community.

Illinois State University uses three models to guide participants through the Alternative Break Encore process:

• Active Citizen Continuum
• 8 Components of a Quality Alternative Break
• Social Change Model
  

Alternative Break Encore Awards

After participants return from Alternative Break, awards are given to outstanding participants to recognize their noteworthy efforts and achievements. Alterantive Break participants are encouraged to nominate participants for the following awards.

• First Year Passionate Participation
  
• Outstanding Long-Term Participant
  
• Spectacular Site Facilitator Pair
  
• Fabulous Faculty/Staff Participant
  
• Spirit of the Program Award