Illinois State University: Embracing Change, Empowering Communities, and Cultivating Compassion
As winter tightened its grip, a group of students and faculty from Illinois State University eagerly set off on a mission of service and solidarity. In the winter of 2024, amidst the chilly winds, Illinois State’s Center for Civic Engagement (CCE) orchestrated yet another inspiring Alternative Winter Break (AWB) program. This year, the destination of choice was the vibrant landscapes of Costa Rica, where participants embarked on a journey to uplift communities and address pressing social issues.
Leading the charge were senior international business major Luke Seymour and junior biology major Emily Drew. Alongside them, Angela Bailey, an instructional assistant professor, and her colleague Rocío Morales served as trip advisors, bringing their expertise and passion to the endeavor.
Reflecting on the student-led initiative, Angela Bailey remarked, “The entire trip was very student-led and organized. I loved that. It was so impressive. Everyone was a leader in one way or another.”
Their journey took them to Los Lagos, a close-knit community predominantly comprised of Nicaraguan immigrants. Here, amidst the warmth of shared purpose, volunteers rolled up their sleeves to build essential infrastructure like stoves and showers. Emily Drew highlighted the significance of their efforts, noting the health risks associated with open-fire stoves, particularly for vulnerable demographics. She expressed, “Seeing everyone come together was a record-breaking high. There is no better feeling.”
Poverty was a stark reality the team confronted, recognizing its pervasive impact. Despite the brevity of their stay, the focus remained on fostering sustainable change. As Drew articulated, “Even if it’s a small change, it’s still a positive step forward.”
Transitioning to the agricultural phase of their journey, participants engaged in the literal fruits of their labor as they hand-picked thousands of pineapples at a local farm. Through this experience, they gained insights into fair trade practices and the benefits of organic produce. Angela Bailey reminisced about the joy of savoring freshly made smoothies, highlighting the camaraderie shared over meals as a cherished aspect of the trip.
Beyond their service projects, the group indulged in moments of leisure, exploring the lush landscapes of Costa Rica. From exhilarating ziplining adventures to serene relaxation in natural hot springs, these experiences provided a balance to their impactful work.
Yet, amidst the beauty of Costa Rica, the true essence of the journey lay in the nightly reflections shared as a group. Luke Seymour emphasized the importance of these moments, stating, “It’s important to know how to properly navigate the stressful moments and make sure everyone in the group feels comfortable and safe.”
As the journey came to a close, the resounding sentiment among participants was one of profound fulfillment and a desire for future involvement. Angela Bailey expressed admiration for the students’ dedication, remarking, “The kindness and the determination of these Redbirds was the best part of the experience for me.”
In the winter of 2024, Illinois State University’s Alternative Winter Break in Costa Rica wasn’t just a trip; it was a testament to the power of service, empathy, and collective action. Through their unwavering commitment, these students and faculty exemplified the university’s ethos of making the world a better place—one community at a time.
Sources:
- https://youtu.be/N1PvkAbuZ2U?si=yMSi2W1CDHD-Z1Iy
- https://news.illinoisstate.edu/2024/02/alternative-winter-break-participants-work-to-make-our-world-a-better-place/
- https://chat.openai.com/
- https://readloud.net/
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