MISSION
We aim to collaboratively champion social justice with compassion while supporting marginalized communities affected by poverty and discrimination.
VISION
In our vision, we see communities that are safe, inclusive, and compassionate, empowering marginalized individuals to forge equitable opportunities for themselves and their communities.
NON-DISCRIMINATION CLAUSE
Odyssey World International Education Services prohibits discrimination on its programs, services, policies, hiring practices and administration on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, or physical or mental disability.
OUR VALUES
Social Justice
We are committed to raising awareness, holding leaders accountable, and coordinating community efforts to fights against systematic policies that oppress marginalized members.
Collaboration & Services
We value collaboration with organizations that raise awareness about social issues and participate in efforts that safeguard our basic human rights.
Equity in Education
We value partnerships with educators, families, and community-based organizations whose work reduces barriers for low-income, BIPOC, and other marginalized students.
Inclusive Communities
We value the different perspectives and insights that come directly from the people that we serve. Relationship building empowers us to better understand the context of social challenges and advocate for more sensible solutions.
Diversity
We value the opportunity to embrace, highlight, and celebrate the richness that diversity brings into our communities. We strive to promote awareness and compassion in helping those who are underrepresented.
OWIES TODAY
At OWI Education Services, we collaborate with community organizations, government offices, and educational institutions to empower BIPOC and low-income communities. Through events and projects, we educate and connect families to health, housing, and other vital resources. Our mission is to reduce disparities, foster cross-cultural understanding, and serve as a bridge to opportunities that help communities thrive.
WHAT WE DO
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Raise awareness about issues affecting women and BIPOC families.
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Connect clients to resources through direct services and a network of community partners.
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Provide BIPOC and low-income youth with experiential learning opportunities, including field trips and camps.
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Advocate for affordable housing and equitable access to emergency housing.
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Host community events that promote cross-cultural understanding, highlight local non-profits, and celebrate the achievements of BIPOC individuals.
HISTORY
Massai Dancer with Host Family (2006)
Maasai Dancers visiting to perform - Spokane (2006)
First Women's Friendship Tea (2007 - Spokane, WA)
First Women's Friendship Tea (2007 - Spokane, WA)
First Women's Friendship Tea (2007 - Spokane, WA)
First Women's Friendship Tea (2007 - Spokane, WA)
Educator's Trip Participants to Nyaharuru Kenya (2008)
Service Trip to El Shaddai Children's Home (2008)
Supplies brought to El Shaddai Children's Home (2008)
Holiday Gift Giveaway for Resettled Families (2009)
MEET THE TEAM
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
KAREN MORRISON
President
OWIES' Founder & Executive Director
BASEVI ADAMO
Secretary
SWACH HealthConnect Operations Manager
EDDIE GALLAGHER
Treasurer
Director of Finance and Operations
BOARD MEMBERS
SARAH CHIVERS, PhD
Curriculum Advisor and Researcher
RHETA RUBENSTEIN
Professor Emrita University of Michigan-Dearborn Ridgefield, WA
JENNIFER WYLD
Research & Development, Scholar and Event Manager
WHO ARE WE?
"Odyssey World, founded in Spokane in 2006 before relocating to Vancouver in 2014, is primarily run by a volunteer staff of about 20 people along with two part-time employees. The organization's acronym spells out "owies", which Morrison said speaks to the heart of her work: healing the wounds of BIPOC communities."
— Kelsey Turner, The Columbian
OWIES SINCE 2006
