
What is APEX?
The Appalachian Experience offers an experience of community that serves with and for others. Rooted in the pillars of community, kinship/solidarity, education, reflection, justice and encounter, APEX sends hundreds of students to more than 10 communities in Central Appalachia each year. The Appalachian Experience offers an experience of community that serves with and for others.
The Appalachian Experience (APEX) is a Spring Break service/immersion program that is committed to serving with and for others, while learning about the culture and concerns of the people of the Appalachian region. Participants will meet together several times throughout the year for preparation, education, and community-building, all of which lead toward the spring break immersion experience in which they seek to learn, serve, and grow in relationship with the communities in Appalachia that they encounter. Upon returning from Appalachia, participants meet several times to continue to reflect on and integrate their experiences, both within the SJU community and into their individual lives.
Mission of The Appalachian Experience
The Appalachian Experience (APEX) is dedicated to immersing in the region of Appalachia, and encountering the communities who call Appalachia home. APEX invites students to build community both on campus and with the people of the Appalachian region through an encounter of kinship and service, and to continue living in solidarity upon return.
APEX is guided by the mission of Saint Joseph’s University, and the Catholic Jesuit tradition. Our primary areas of focus are on the the Ignatian Values of:
APEX Documentary
In this short documentary, director Jeffrey Wallin ’10 and producer Matt Fullmer ’17 (MBA) spend time with SJU volunteers and the people of the Appalachian region to learn what makes the program so special.
From Jeff Cap Productions on Vimeo.
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Information for Participants
Information for Participants
Learn more about being a participant in our program. Including information on what to expect, how to sign up, and what to pack!

Information for Alumni
Information for Alumni
Information for alumni on how you can stay connected with the APEX community!

Justice and Advocacy Resources
Justice and Advocacy Resources
View resources for advocating for those in the Appalachian region.