45.0 Purpose
Semester breaks are short transition periods—typically 1–2 weeks—between volunteer groups. These breaks allow DOVEs to reset the program, prepare the OSSO house, and ensure all supplies, systems, and environments are ready for incoming volunteers.
Note: Semester break start and end dates are set by OSSO Headquarters years in advance to align with university calendars. These dates cannot be adjusted.
45.1 DOVE Responsibilities During Breaks
DOVEs are responsible for fully resetting the OSSO house before the next group of volunteers arrives. This includes cleaning, organizing, restocking supplies, and completing any other necessary preparations.
During the reset period, DOVEs may live in the OSSO house. Once reset tasks are completed, they are welcome to travel or take personal time away.
If DOVEs plan to be away from the house for any portion of the break, they must notify the Operations Coordinator in advance.
The reset list provided by OSSO is a starting point only. DOVEs are expected to observe the condition of the house and program materials and add any site-specific cleaning, repair, or reset tasks as needed to ensure the house is fully ready for the next volunteer group.
Key tasks during break include:
-Completing end-of-semester reports.
-Finalizing exit surveys for all departing volunteers.
-Deep cleaning of the house.
-Restocking and organizing the Activity Supply Library.
-Addressing light repairs or program needs (larger issues should be reported for coordination by the Operations Coordinator).
45.2 Personal Time and Travel
DOVES may use personal time during break to rest or travel if desired.
OSSO does not cover travel or accommodations for personal trips.
Travel outside the city or country is not prohibited but is ill-advised due to limited time and program needs.
DOVES may leave the house at the same time during break, but should return in time to finalize house preparation before the next semester begins.
45.3 Program Costs and Coverage
OSSO continues to cover all program-related living costs during the break, including:
Food
Water and utilities
Transportation for program-related errands (e.g., grocery or supply shopping)
Personal travel, tours, and non-program meals or expenses are the responsibility of the DOVEs.