Alternative Spring Break (ASB) is a program sponsored by University Ministry that seeks to educate student volunteers about specific social issues by immersing them in diverse cultures and environments across the country to engage in service-oriented learning. Participating offers a chance to put into action the charisms of the Religious Sisters of Mercy and the Society of Jesus, the sponsors of the University. The participants travel together and live in a community atmosphere, sharing chores, meals and reflection opportunities. As everyone has a different persepctive, studnts learn to respect the dignity of each other and of those they serve Over the past 13 years, students have helped in many parts of the USA: Michigan, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, New York, Ohio, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Missouri, and even South Dakota.