The Alternative Breaks Programs at The George Washington University, a drug and alcohol-free program, gives students the opportunity to partake in different community service and outreach activities. This winter, a group of twelve students will have the opportunity to take part in a life-changing experience in Duran, Ecuador. While working alongside the organization, Rostro de Cristo, students will be engaging in a plethora of activities aiming to improve basic living and education conditions in the indigent city. Some ofthe activities include providing educational support at local schools, construction projects, as well as daily interaction with children who live far less privileged lives than we do.

This endeavor will give students the opportunity to experience a complete cultural immersion. Furthermore, it allows all students to witness life is like in an underdeveloped country and gain appreciation for a society that has been literally built on waste. By participating in this international community service trip, it is our hope that students will see some of the common problems occurring on a daily basis in poverty-stricken countries. In addition, this will allow students to take the problems they have encountered and the lessons that they have learned and bring them back to use in Washington, DC, where poverty is seen on an everyday basis.

The great thing about this trip is that it is all student-run. All students will be sacrificing a tremendous amount of time, energy, and effort throughout the fall semester with the ultimate end-goal of helping a community in need in Ecuador. Students will be participating in many different fundraising activities throughout the semester. In addition, the Alternative Winter Break Ecuador trip is seeking donations from family members, relatives, friends, etc … We understand that the economic situation this country is facing has forced many families to cut back on spending. However, it only takes a small amount to make a tremendous difference in the lives of others. Anything that can be donated will be greatly appreciated and will go a long way in making this trip possible.

If you are able to make a donation, please click on the PayPal link on the right hand side of the page.

We greatly appreciate your time and consideration. If you have any questions, feel free to contact one of the trip leaders (information is below) or the participating student you know participating on this trip.

Sincerely,
Daniel Cartica (Senior, Trip Leader)
Dominique Waters (Senior, Trip Leader)
AWBEcuador2010@gmail.com