ALTERNATIVE BREAK TRIPS
The Alternative Break Trips Program is a student-run organization dedicated to providing Simpson students the opportunity to travel as members of an intentional community of service such that they may experience new perspectives, develop leadership skills, and practice cooperation through educational and hands-on community service during college breaks. We organize student-led service trips for both fall and spring break that go to cities all over the country and to neighboring countries. While our primary focus is on poverty issues, we also work with environmental, health, elderly, and kids programs. Workplaces often include soup kitchens, homeless shelters, after-school programs, painting, construction, trail clearing, clinics and HIV/AIDS programs. Trip information sessions are in early September and late October for Fall and Spring Breaks.
THE BUDDIES PROGRAM
The Buddies Program matches college students with 3rd and 4th graders from Elementary who are in need of a supportive relationship. College students spend 2-3 hours a week individually with their buddies and have the opportunity to attend larger group gatherings throughout the year.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Habitat for Humanity is an international organization that works to build or remodel homes for low-income families. The college chapter works specifically in Iowa (Warren county), in conjunction with the town chapter of Simpson.
RELIGIOUS LIFE COMMUNITY
Habitat For Humanity
Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit, Christian housing ministry dedicated to eliminating poverty housing worldwide. The Simpson campus chapter of Habitat for Humanity frequently participates in building and remodeling projects in conjunction with the Warren County chapter of Habitat. In addition to Saturday work trips and fundraisers, the chapter travels to a new location each year to build one or more houses over the week of spring break.
Breakfast Club
The Breakfast Club is open to any student, faculty, or staff who would like to travel to Des Moines to share breakfast and fun time with children at an inner-city children’s center.
Haven Club
The Haven Club is an after school program sponsored by an inner-city children’s center. It invites members of the Simpson community to come and participate in after-school reading, writing, and social skills activities with Des Moines area school children.
Catholic Worker House
Simpson students who visit the Des Moines Catholic Worker House have the unique opportunity to assist with inner-city building projects and serve Hospitality House meals.