Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

Each year, a team of students travels to a developing country with the goal of empowering local communities through sustainable practices. We are a student-run organization that operates as non-profit under the College of Saint Benedict 501c3 status. 

Three-Step Process

We have developed a unique three-step process to ensure that each project we undertake is catered to the needs of the communities we serve.

1. The Discovery Phase

Students are sent to the designated destination in search of pressing issues that exist within the area. We then talk to local community members to seek out ways we can use our resources and support to help. We must assess the needs of the developing community in order to develop a project best suited to them.

2. The Implementation Phase

Students work with members of the local community to build and implement a project tailored to their needs. In this stage, the project is established and the locals are equipped with the resources necessary to run on their own.

3. The Reevaluation Phase

A year later, students are sent back to the site to ensure that the project is sustainable and positively affecting the surrounding community. In this phase, we can provide assistance and help suggest improvements to ensure the project is providing as much benefit as possible.

MISSION

Square One is a CSBSJU student-run non-profit organization committed to empowering developing communities through implementing sustainable practices. We successfully implement ventures by tailoring each project to the individuals and resources within the respective region.

VISION

Square One intends to sustain projects long-term by revisiting the location for a minimum of three years and maintaining year-round communication with community leaders. We provide students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in designing and delivering a small-scale economic development venture. Students involved will gain global awareness through experience in project design and leadership. We recognize the importance of connecting our campus to our projects, and will hold events throughout the academic year to educate our campus community about the people we serve and build support for our cause.