facebook pixel tracker

University of Lynchburg

/ Graduate Academics / Master of PA Medicine (MPAM) / Students Without Borders

Students Without Borders

Students Without Borders (SWOB) is a student-led organization committed to delivering essential medical aid to underserved communities.

Each year, Lynchburg PA students embark on a medical humanitarian trip, partnering with licensed preceptors to assess and treat individuals in the communities we serve. Past trips have taken us to Oaxaca, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. Throughout the year, SWOB works diligently to raise funds to purchase medicine, medical supplies, and hygiene items for distribution. In addition to medical aid, SWOB has distributed clothing, toys, glasses, books, sports equipment, and other essentials to those in need.

A portion of the funds raised by SWOB can also be directed to local Lynchburg organizations that provide free medical care, helping to support and strengthen our local community

SWOB’s Facebook Page
SWOB’s Instagram Page
swob@lynchburg.edu

Donate to Lynchburg’s Students Without Borders.

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity that we were privileged to have had in Teotitlán del Valle. I learned so much from the patients that we treated throughout the week, from my peers, and the clinicians. The experience was humbling and left me with an appreciation for my ability to learn medicine as a future PA. I am thankful to the people who opened their community to us, making this experience possible. And I am grateful to be attending a program that so highly values outreach and advocacy.​Whitley Ranson, MPAM '24, Student Without Borders Vice-President
Traveling to Mexico as a first-year PA student, providing medical care to an underserved community alongside faculty members and my peers, was not only a humbling experience but a reminder of the impact we can make when we serve with compassion and purpose. In the small village of Teotitlan del Valle, we embraced cultural diversity, bridged language barriers, and delivered much-needed medical care, creating a lasting impact that resonates beyond borders.​Brenna DeBellas, MPAM '24, Student Without Borders President
During our service trip to San Andrés Huayapam, Mexico, setting up a clinic and offering free medical care was profoundly rewarding. Collaborating with the community, my classmates, and the faculty was a privilege, and working and playing with the children was particularly meaningful. Hearing the community’s stories about enduring health challenges and helping to address long-standing issues was both humbling and inspiring. This experience not only made a significant impact on those we served but also deeply enriched my journey towards becoming a PA, strengthening my dedication to compassionate and impactful healthcare.​Rose Jones, MPAM ‘25, Students Without Borders Travel Coordinator
Having the opportunity to provide healthcare to the community of San Andrés Huayapam was an incredible experience. I learned so much from everyone on the trip including my classmates, preceptors, translators, and the patients. Working to make a difference in this small community was rewarding and provided me with memories and knowledge that I will use for the rest of my life. I am so thankful to have been given this opportunity and look forward to future trips.​Penelope Moore, MPAM ‘25, Students Without Borders Vice-President