A team of compassionate and dedicated nursing students from Dickinson State University (DSU) embraced the spirit of service as they embarked on a transformative journey to Guatemala over spring break. From February 29 to March 9, 2024, the DSU Nursing Student Association students participated in the God's Child Project, providing essential healthcare services and support to underserved communities in Guatemala.
The God's Child Project, renowned for its commitment to empowering communities and fostering sustainable change, welcomed the DSU nursing students for this experience. Throughout their time in Guatemala, the students immersed themselves in hands-on experiences, working alongside local healthcare professionals to deliver medical care and health education to those in need. The students also built structures to support three local families.
“We started planning over a year ago,” shared Erica Martinez-Meza, director of funds for the DSU Nursing Student Association. “Pulling it together was a dream come true. The trip was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
With a focus on promoting DSU’s motto of service, the nursing students engaged in a variety of impactful activities, including caring for children and visiting local families receiving support through the God’s Child organization. The group was also able to raise enough funds to provide a stove and water filtration system to the three families they served.
Through their participation in the God's Child Project, the DSU nursing students not only gained invaluable clinical experience but also developed a profound understanding of the global healthcare landscape and the importance of humanitarian aid. Their dedication and compassionate service exemplify the core values of Dickinson State University and reflect the university's commitment to fostering engaged, responsible global citizens.
"We are immensely proud of our nursing students for their dedication to serving others and making a positive impact on communities around the world," said Lynette Silbernagel, Nursing faculty at Dickinson State University and the faculty supervisor who attended the mission. "Their participation in the God's Child Project demonstrates the transformative power of education and service. It was great to be a part of this experience."
The DSU nursing students returned from Guatemala enriched by their experiences. As they reflect on their journey, they have a deep appreciation for the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
"The mission trip to Guatemala was an eye-opening experience for me,” stated Hannah Kessel, a senior nursing major at DSU. “It made me realize that we are so blessed with our community and the sense of togetherness and support it provides. The people of Guatemala have far more struggles than we will ever bear witness to. It was uplifting to be able to bring some of our Dickinson community support to people that so desperately needed it.”
For more information about Dickinson State University and Nursing programming, please visit www.dickinsonstate.edu/nursing. Check out more photos from the mission trip on flickr by visiting: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBhrrU.