Welcome to our blog!

We're the UMD Alternative Breaks Pine Ridge team, and we're passionate about service-learning for social change. This spring break, we'll be traveling to Pine Ridge, SD to serve the Pine Ridge reservation community alongside our community partner, Re-Member. Follow us for a year of growth, inspiration, and empowerment.

About our experience: 
For centuries the Lakota people have celebrated their rich heritage with traditional craft, festivals, and religious worship in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The second-largest Native American reservation, Pine Ridge, is home to over 15,000 Lakota people and stretches over 2.8 million acres (larger than Delaware and Rhode Island combined!).


Yet amidst cultural diversity lies deep-rooted oppression, poverty, and marginalization. Over 80% of Pine Ridge residents are unemployed and the average per capita income is $4,000. Diabetes, heart disease, tuberculosis, and infant mortality far outpace national averages, and the Pine Ridge community continues to struggle with teenage suicide, alcoholism, and high incarceration rates. In collaboration with Re-member, participants will engage in service activities from building bunk beds to assisting with home repairs. Our team will be immersed in the unique culture, language, and tradition of the Lakota people and become partners in the fight for equality and empowerment.

Check out last year's experience video!