Service Through Empowerment

Authors

• Emma Schuele, College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University
• Faith Robak, College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University
• Samantha Oritz Perez, College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University

Document Type

Paper

Publication Date

5-1-2026

Disciplines

Physiology

Advisor

Vimbayi Chinopfukutwa

Abstract

As our community-engaged learning project for our Community Psychology class, we volunteered at the Overcomers International Fellowship (OIF) Dream Center. The OIF Dream Center is a nonprofit organization that provides previously incarcerated men with resources and programs to help them as they enter back into society. Among these resources are housing, food, medical care, support groups, and treatment. Additionally, the Dream Center helps men overcome mental health obstacles, disabilities, and chemical dependencies. These programs enable residents to prepare for life outside of prison. They are given opportunities to further their education, find jobs, attend therapy, and reconnect with their families. As volunteers, we work to promote the Dream Center's goal of helping adult men face their problems, find wholeness, and reintegrate back into society. We conducted empowerment interviews, evaluated case studies, served meals, and helped with facility maintenance. Through our interactions with residents and staff, we were able to establish meaningful connections within the community.

Recommended Citation

Schuele, Emma; Robak, Faith; and Oritz Perez, Samantha, "Service Through Empowerment" (2026). Celebrating Scholarship and Creativity Day (2018-). 332.
https://digitalcommons.csbsju.edu/ur_cscday/332