From October 10th to the 17th, 2023, STEMCivics faculty and students traveled on a Global Impact Squad to Panama to collaborate with local community leaders on service projects and cultural exchange. For one week, students immersed themselves in Panamanian culture while working hard to support a construction project in El Limon, a small rural community.
During the Impact Squad, the team stayed at the beautiful La Iguana Eco Resort, an eco-lodge near the city of Penonomé. The Squads primary mission was to support the construction of a classroom as well as home renovations, with the goal of improving the quality of life in the local community.
The Impact Squad featured numerous cultural immersion activities, such as mola painting, cooking traditional Panamanian dishes, and exploring the art of soapstone carving. These experiences deepened the volunteers’ appreciation for Panama and its remarkable heritage.
Students also took part in a variety of local enrichment activities, including excursions to Monkey Island, ziplining adventures and visits to an Emberá Quera traditional community. These activities not only introduced our volunteers to the rich tapestry of Panamanian culture, but also created an amazing environment to build friendship among the group as well as with local staff and community members.
Evenings were a time for relaxation and fun, with the volunteers enjoying movie nights, beach outings, karaoke sessions and Zumba classes. These moments provided a well-deserved break from the construction and cultural activities, fostering a sense of togetherness.
Participating in a Global Impact Squad offered the students of STEMCivics an unforgettable experience. It served as a gateway to broaden their horizons, fostering an understanding of different cultures, demonstrating the profound impact small acts of kindness can have on the lives of others, and allowing them to apply the knowledge they’ve acquired throughout their years of study.
If you’re eager to lend a helping hand and want to explore how you can be a part of a Squad, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll be delighted to provide you with more information and guide you through the steps to embark on this remarkable journey.
