"
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 2010
Project Limón, Nicaragua
Challenge:
In Limón, severe poverty and limited infrastructure are two barriers that stand between the community and basic health care. Frequent ailments included upper respiratory infections, diarrhea, parasites, and the common cold. In conjunction with local and private health care facilities and the FIMRC-run pediatric health clinic, children gain access to the care and attention they deserve. FIMRC Ambassadors/Fellows will be challenged to contribute to the clinic's efforts with their own holistic approach to community development projects.
Mentor/Staff Support:
Ambassadors/Fellows will partner with the Field Operations Manager and/or a local Health Promoter in project development and implementation.
Commitment:
Ambassadors/Fellows are expected to be present during clinic hours, Monday through Friday, 9am to 4pm.
Housing and Transportation:
Project Limón offers three different housing options. Ambassadors/Fellows can stay at The Surf Sanctuary, home to short-term Global Health Volunteers, in a small local hostel named
Las Tortugas, or with a Nicaraguan family. The homestay is more immersive and cost-effective. The various modes of transportation for Ambassadors/Fellows are bicycles, buses, or walking.
Cost:
Details are available upon request during the recruitment process.
Visa Requirements:
FIMRC Nicaragua Ambassadors/Fellows work on 90 day tourist visas available at the airport upon arrival for a price of $5. There are different options to renew a visa for Ambassadors/Fellows that are on site beyond 90 days. The Field Operations Manager will facilitate this process in country. If Ambassadors/Fellows are not U.S. passport holders, they are responsible for obtaining a visa before departure.
Past Projects:
- Dental health program including comprehensive health education sessions, disbursement of necessary materials, and promotion of dental services in a local clinic.
- Research and development of the Kids in Focus preventative health program in local schools, aimed at improving baseline health in school aged children.
- First aid training to youth in the community.
- HIV/AIDS awareness and family planning for adolescents susceptible to STIs and unplanned pregnancies.
