Alternative Service Trips
The Purchase Alternative Service Trip (P.A.S.T.) program develops a commitment to service by providing a unique experience where growth of personal character and a connection between students and community members are cultivated through service to communities of need. By traveling during the academic breaks we hope to accomplish this mission.
P.A.S.T. offers the opportunity for students to both travel outside of Purchase, NY and serve in a community of need and help community members in need, right in their own backyard. The trip experience will be one of personal growth and connections with fellow students and community members.
Participation in a trip requires commitment and dedication from those involved in order for participants to truly gain from the experience. Trip participants are expected to attend at least two trip meetings prior to the trip. Two student site leaders and staff advisors will accompany students on the trip to guide the group as well as coordinate all trip related events and meetings.
An alternative break is a unique experience that allows participants to immerse themselves in a different culture while performing meaningful community service. As a result, at no time will the Purchase Alternative Break program tolerate drinking, alcohol use, or illegal drug use during the trip. Violation of this policy will result in termination from the program and participants will be sent home at his/her own expense.
Previous Site Locations
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Spring 2020: Parismina, Costa Rica (postponed)
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Spring 2019: San Juan, Puerto Rico
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Spring 2018: Houston, TX
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Spring 2017: Cartagena, Columbia
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Spring 2016: Food & Friends and Martha’s Table, Washington DC
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Spring 2015: Cradles to Crayons and Mission Greenhouse, Philadelphia, PA
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Winter 2015: Second Harvest and Hands On New Orleans, New Orleans, LA
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Winter 2014: Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA
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Spring 2013: Occupy Sandy, Brooklyn, NY
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Winter 2013: Escuela Hogar, Monte Plata, Dominican Republic
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Spring 2012: Urban Tree Connection, Philadelphia, PA
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Winter 2012: Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA