The Beavers Without Borders (BWOB) program at Oregon State University (OSU) is an experiential learning, service-abroad program established by OSU Athletics to provide opportunities for student-athletes to engage in study abroad. Student-athletes tend to have commitments to their teams that prevent them from taking advantage of study abroad courses, which typically often involve a term or more in another country. BWOB offers short-term programs to provide opportunities overseas to these students.
Established in 2011, BWOB’s first experience was in Guatemala, where OSU student-athletes built a home (with electricity supplied by solar PV) for a family in the city of Alotenango. Since its inception, BWOB has led a total of twelve trips, to Guatemala (2011-12, 2018), Macedonia (2011), Ethiopia (2013), Costa Rica (2017), and the Dominican Republic (2014-19). Students in the BWOB program earn course credits for their time abroad.
BWOB has engaged in a variety of projects: construction and building renovation, agriculture, and distribution of shoes and clothing. For several years BWOB returned to the Dominican Republic – to work on projects at children’s homes, a retirement home, and in the farms and fields that provide food for these institutions. This longstanding relationship with the people of Los Llanos and other Dominican communities has allowed for sustained connection. In 2017 and 2018, BWOB also led programs to Costa Rica and Guatemala, working with Soles4Souls, a non-profit organization that collects shoes and distributes them worldwide through donations to those in need and through micro-enterprise partners. Beavers Without Borders will resume in the summer of 2023. The program will entail a service-learning program in Panama, working in partnership with the organization Courts For Kids and the people of Embera Puru to build a sports court – a place for kids to play, and a gathering space for community activities.
BEAVERS WITHOUT BORDERS FAQ
What is Beavers Without Borders?
Beavers Without Borders (BWOB) is a service-learning study abroad program, developed as a collaboration between OSU Athletics and OSU International Programs.
What is the plan for 2023?
This June, OSU is proud to have the opportunity to send a group of student-athletes to Panama. In partnership with Courts4Kids and Embera Puru, they will build a space for kids to play and for community activities to be held.
What is the impact of Beavers Without Borders?
The purpose of BWOB is to provide OSU student-athletes the chance to participate in short-term services trips and engage in experiential service-based learning outside of the usual classroom setting.
What is the exact itinerary for Panama in June?
This year's itinerary is still being finalized.
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