Discovering Hope at “Discovery U”

Even though we are only part way through summer, university students are already setting their sights on the fall semester – and many people served by The Ottawa Mission are doing the same!

Discovery University (Discovery U) is a unique program that allows people who are homeless or living on low incomes the opportunity to participate in non-credit, university-level Humanities and Social Sciences courses at no cost. This program is offered by The Ottawa Mission in partnership with the University of Ottawa, St. Paul University, and First Baptist Church, and is supported by generous donations from the community. The courses are taught on campus by university professors, and all textbooks and course materials are also provided at no cost.

This fall the classes being offered are “Philosophical Reflections for Today’s World” with a focus on some of the big questions in today’s society; and musical “Improvisation for Theory and Practice” which will include discussion seminars as well as actual hands-on musical improvisation. As always, those who complete all course requirements will be celebrated with a special graduation ceremony and a diploma.

The beauty of Discovery U has many facets. It encourages students to embrace continuous learning and also develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will help them in their everyday lives. A less-tangible, but equally important side-benefit of Discovery U is that it gives people a sense of pride, accomplishment… and hope.

The application deadline for the fall semester is August 29. If you are interested or know of someone who might be, click here for further information.