WASHINGTON, PA (Aug. 9, 2012)—A group of Washington & Jefferson College (W&J) students and staff representing its Presidents Without Borders service organization are in Nicaragua on a medical mission to make a difference to those in need.
The group of twelve are in Nicaragua this week, helping to operate clinics out of a church in Managua and educating students in a local school district about preventative medicine, covering topics such as hydration, hygiene, and living a healthy life.
“This trip is important because it is a chance to learn about the medical field in a different light and help people that are not as fortunate as we are. We are an international service organization and this amazing opportunity is a chance for us to spread the W&J love,” said junior Erin Oberg, president of Presidents Without Borders and a graduate of Riverside High School in Elwood City, Pa., near Pittsburgh. “It has been an aspiration of mine to go on medical missions and having the ability to go on two during my undergrad is just incredible. During this trip, I hope the group finds a greater passion for the world of service and that they grow as individuals as they try to work and live in a country that is out of their comfort zone.”
Presidents Without Borders has been gathering donations of medical and school supplies and toys for the trip, said Adam Ortiz, staff advisor for Presidents Without Borders and assistant director of admission at W&J.
Presidents Without Borders was established last year by 2012 graduate Nick Tyger. The idea for the organization evolved from Tyger’s Magellan Project in 2009, when he went on a medical mission to the Dominican Republic. Presidents Without Borders travelled to the Dominican Republic last year as well.
This year’s group will return from Nicaragua Aug. 3.
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