Every spring break, several Merrimack students forgo trips to traditional vacation destinations to help communities in need. Those who participate in the alternative break program — known as SEND — travel to places both within the U.S. and abroad to take part in hands-on service work.

While many colleges have instituted alternative spring break programs, Merrimack’s SEND is among the longest-running at 61 years. The trips are both student- and faculty-led, and most include a pre-curriculum focused on social justice and diversity training. As stated on the website for the Grace J. Palmisano Center for Campus Ministry, which runs the program, “Service opportunities give Merrimack students the chance to embody key aspects of our Augustinian heritage, which emphasizes intellectual, spiritual and personal growth.”

Watch the video below to hear from students who participated in the program: