What is it?
Alternative Winter Break is a week-long program held during the law school’s winter break. It is an opportunity for law students to gain valuable experience by providing volunteer legal services in offices across the country and in a variety of practice areas. In past years, students have worked in offices such as the Bronx and New Orleans Public Defenders, Legal Aid Justice Center, Mississippi Center for Justice, Albemarle County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, American Civil Liberties Union, and NY Legal Aid Society. They will work directly with their legal offices, and will also be placed in groups with other law students who are working in similar legal fields. This class-type component of the program allows students to engage in supplemental learning and talk with other students about their public service experiences.
In order to assist students with financing travel and boarding costs to enable participation in this program, PILA helps fundraise through endeavors such as bake sales and restaurant profit-share fundraisers, as well as other events.
PILA Grant Requirements
Students who participate in Alternative Winter Break are eligible to apply their hours towards the pro bono hours requirement for PILA+ grants and UVA Law Summer Public Service grants, provided they are registered to participate at the time of their grant application submission.
Alternative Winter Break
Application deadline: Mid-October
For any questions/concerns, or for more information on this program, please feel free to contact the PILA Alternative Break Directors Jennifer Craddick (jsc8ad@virinia.edu) and/or Ariana Smith (ajs8kd@virginia.edu).