By Grace Campagna, Newswire Intern

The Alternative Breaks (AB) program is celebrating its 25 years at Xavier with a gala on Nov. 8 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Armory on campus. 

The AB program provides students with opportunities to be immersed in various social justice topics by participating in trips over fall break and spring break. “(Their mission is to) create active citizens through service, education, and reflection,” junior social work major and chair of the AB board Kelly Witwer said. 

AB is a nationwide club organization whose chapter at Xavier was established in 2000 by a Xavier sophomore. 

“(It is) run and organized by a board of students and a Center for Faith and Justice staff advisor,” the AB website said. 

The gala on Nov. 8 will be the first hosted by the program.

 “(Our goal is) to celebrate 25 years of impact, community and memories and to recognize the history of the organization with the concept of looking back to look forward,” Witwer said. 

Attendees will hear from community partners, alumni and student speakers. Guests can also expect food, music, conversations and the chance to win gift baskets. Attire for the gala is semi-formal or formal with an emphasis on self-expression.

“We want to raise awareness about what AB is and the importance of the social justice issues our community partners address,” Witwer said. These partners range from communities in Cincinnati all the way to San Salvador, El Salvador. They offer a variety of topics available for students  explore.

This year’s theme is bridging the gap. “(This theme) calls us to step out and meet others where they are, by building bridges that foster trust, dialogue and solidarity,” Witwer said. This theme reflects AB’s dedication to closing the distance between campus and community, and its members live out what it means to bridge the gap through genuine connection, shared experiences, and mutual understanding.

Ticket prices for the gala are $15 student ticket. $120 for student club full table, $60 for a student club half table, $35 for outside guest/Xavier staff ticket, $280 full table and $140 half table. Tickets for the event can be purchased on EngageXU for students, faculty and staff. All proceeds will fundraise for trips and help to subsidize student payment costs.