This virtual service-learning trip allowed students to connect remotely with Bolivian non-profit organizations that provide teaching on human rights, education, and health. Many of the organizations focus on work with youth with disabilities, children’s issues, education, and conservation, among other human rights issues. Students then connected with local non-profit organizations to explore these topics as they exist here at home. They also participated in a variety of hands-on service projects related to these topics.
Service Trips
Service trips are planned each academic year with most trips fulfilling one Immersive Experience requirement. Trips vary from year to year so that students may have the opportunity to engage in both domestic and international experiences that focus on different areas of service and learning.
January 7–13, 2023: The Navajo Nation
In Tuba City, AZ, participants will have the opportunity to learn about Navajo life and culture, work on a community-led service project, and explore the natural beauty of the area.
March 4–11, 2023: Northern Ireland
In Belfast, this program will engage participants in a hands-on examination of the history of the Troubles and modern efforts of peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland via service and learning with youth centers.
Partnering with Amizade, a Global Service-Learning Group with over 27 years of experience, 12-15 LVC students/staff members will participate in a service trip to Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Dates
- Depart from LVC: Saturday, March 4, 2023
- Return to LVC: Saturday, March 11, 2023
General Program Overview from Amizade
This 7-day service-learning experience will focus on issues related to peace, reconciliation, and youth work in Belfast. The trip will provide participants with a first-hand look at the history of the Troubles as they meet with ex-combatants, politicians, and youth workers with experience in both the conflict and peace processes. The hands-on service component of the trip will involve working with YouthWorks, an organization that provides young people the opportunity to “grow up, develop social and life skills in a safe and secure environment, take on responsibility and make decisions on their own lifestyles based on sound information and support.” The need for strong youth centers emerged during the Troubles, and these organizations continue to play a vital role in helping youth from low-income neighborhoods develop lives of choice. Jen Liedtka, Service and Volunteerism Coordinator, will serve as the LVC staff leader of the trip
Accommodations
Participants will likely stay at the Premier Inn Belfast City Centre, or a similar modest hotel, and will share a double room.
Planning Timeline
- Fri., Sept. 23: Online application due
- Fri., Sept. 30: Participant selections announced via e-mail
- Wed., Oct. 12: $300 non-refundable deposit and all paperwork due
- Tues., Jan. 3: Final payment due
- Mandatory 2 group planning meetings (dates TBD)
- Mandatory post-trip reflection paper due (by early April 2023)
- Mandatory post-trip sharing session (April or May 2023)
Cost
Program cost: Approximately $2,000 per person (Covers all lodging, meals, ground transportation, program fees, and outings.)
Airfare: Flight rates are currently being negotiated and will be in addition to the program cost. The Office of Service and Volunteerism will book the flights, and the group will fly together.
This trip fulfills the residential service project requirement for the Gold Service Award as well as one Immersive Experience requirement.
