Registration closed. Keep an eye out for information about next year! Elderhostel Spring Break (ESB) looks a little different this year! ESB 2020 is reserved for current and past Allerton volunteers. Participants will stay overnight at Allerton for the week, volunteering their time on projects that protect and improve the park while experiencing all that this unique setting has to offer. Volunteers will work together on projects daily then have time to experience and explore Allerton. The week will include optional social activities like Movie in the Mansion, a guided nature hike, and cook-out over a fire pit. Come spend Spring Break at Allerton!
For questions or more information contact Mindy at brand@illinois.edu or 217-300-9913.
FAQ
Elderhostel Spring Break is an alternative spring break program in which participants have the opportunity to experience Allerton Park while volunteering their time on projects that improve and preserve it.
Elderhostel Spring Break is open to current and past Allerton volunteers at least 18 years of age.
Elderhostel Spring Break participants have the choice to volunteer for the half the week or the entire week.
- Group 1: Sunday, March 15th at 4:00pm – Tuesday, March 17th at 4:00pm
- Group 2: Tuesday, March 17th at 4:00pm – Thursday, March 19th at 4:00pm
- Group 3: All week!
Allerton hosts anywhere from 5-15 volunteers for ESB, depending on our need for volunteers that year.
There is no cost to participate in ESB.
Participants will work under the direction of staff on a variety of volunteer projects, taking a 30-minute break for lunch. Participants will have ample time to experience and explore Allerton daily.
There will be a variety of projects throughout the week, all designed to preserve and improve the park. Some examples of previous projects include: painting, simple woodworking, invasive plant removal, trail maintenance, garden cleanup. Most projects will take place outdoors. Many of the projects are physically demanding.
Yes. Food for three full meals will be offered daily, along with snacks. Breakfast is usually basic items like bagels, cereal, and fruit. You are welcome to bring personal snacks. A community refrigerator and microwave will be available in the common room.
Participants are housed in one of several renovated buildings on Allerton property. You should expect to share a room with at least one other same-sex participant. All rooms have the usual furnishings of a hotel room. Roommate requests can usually be accommodated.
You really only need adequate clothing and personal care items, however, you will receive a suggested packing list after you are accepted into the program.
While there is no arranged shuttle for Elderhostel Spring Break, Piattran offers flexible public transportation from all over Piatt County and surrounding communities.
