"Global health seems much more real and personal. My experience has put a face to many issues of global health. I have a much better understanding of what does and doesn't work in global health and why it does or doesn't work. I realize now how important it is for clinics and public health programs to work with the community rather than just come in right away and do what they personally think is best." - Shane O'Brien, Project Bumwalukani, Summer 2010
"Overall, I had a great time working at FIMRC. I liked being able to work autonomously on the competitor analysis, as well as part of a team on the health education manual. I felt like I contributed concretely to FIMRC, both on the business side...and the healthcare volunteer side...so that while I was sitting in Philadelphia headquarters, I still felt a part of the activity in Africa and South America." - Luisa Armstrong, HQ, Summer 2010
"Though potable water and community education become your mantra, it is clear that there may seldom be simple solutions; each colorfully dynamic community must develop the delicate trust and respect between population and NGO that is necessary before approaching any obstacle." - Steven Purcell, Project Las Delicias, Summer 2010Global Headquarters, Philadelphia, PA
Challenge:
Ambassadors/Fellows are expected to integrate into the fast paced HQ environment to further FIMRC's mission of improving global health for all children. Orientation to the exciting and multifaceted work of an international nonprofit organization is included and based on an Ambassador's/Fellow's demonstrated skills and interests. A passion for FIMRC's mission, professionalism, excellent communication skills, email/phone etiquette, and the ability to multitask with minimal direction and supervision are crucial. Ambassadors/Fellows are awarded a title that indicates the focus of their support:- Data Analyst Ambassador/Fellow, whose primary projects include marketing, finance, project development ,and research
- Global Health Ambassador/Fellow, whose primary projects include remote support of international project staff, programming, and monitoring & evaluation
- Marketing and Outreach Ambassador/Fellow, whose primary projects include volunteer recruitment and coordination and outreach
- Public Relations Ambassador/Fellow, whose primary projects include FIMRC's social media footprint, website development, and campus/community outreach events and professional training workshops
- Project Development Ambassador/Fellow, whose primary projects include monetary/in-kind donation management and grant writing
Mentor/Staff Support:
HQ Ambassadors/Fellows work directly with HQ Staff to support and improve FIMRC's global operations.Commitment:
HQ Ambassadors/Fellows are expected to dedicate 15 to 20 hours a week but can work as much as 40 hours per week depending on availability.Housing and Transportation:
Ambassadors/Fellows are responsible for arranging their own housing and transportation.Cost:
There are no program fees associated with the Ambassador and Fellowship Programs at HQ. However, Ambassadors/Fellows are responsible for covering all associated costs such as food, housing, and transport.Past Projects:
Past HQ Ambassador/Fellow projects have included:
- Developing a framework and timeline for FIMRC's membership campaign
- Creating promotional documents to maximize donor contributions
- Working alongside FIMRC Global Health Volunteer Program staff to increase volunteer recruitment
- Providing grant writing support in identifying prospects and preparing proposals
- Researching and compiling public health data to support FIMRC's Micro Health Insurance Program
- Working with college/university chapters to establish and develop their membership
- Planning fundraising and outreach events
International Project Sites
From de-stigmatizing HIV/AIDS in rural Uganda to teaching illiterate Nicaraguans living in Costa Rica about nutrition, each international site presents its own unique challenges. Through it all, FIMRC Ambassadors/Fellows must maintain a positive attitude and be committed to effecting positive social change. Excellent communication and teamwork skills, a high comfort level with international travel, and the ability to work efficiently in an intercultural setting are essential. Click on the country of interest for an in-depth description of what Ambassadors/Fellows take on.
