Volunteer Testimonials
“Costa Rica was an absolutely amazing time! I loved working in the clinics alongside my group and being able to tour the country was breathtaking...from shadowing a doctor to going whitewater rafting and zip-lining was great! I would definitely go back again to relive the experience.” - Cornelius, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
“The experience was amazing. It really opened my eyes to the differences between countries; stuff that people take for granted in the US like Tylenol and cold medicine are commodities in Costa Rica. I really enjoyed working with the children at the soup kitchen, and thought that it was the amazing to play with them and it was the one place where the language barrier seemed to be nonexistent. I had an amazing time and got to experience Costa Rican culture while volunteering, thanks so much FIMRC! ” - Carissa, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
“I loved every second of my mission trip to Costa Rica! Everyone is welcoming and glad that you are there to help. A Wonderful experience that I will never forget!” - Heather B., volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
“If you want to travel abroad, do fun things like zip lining, white water rafting, and mountain climbing, AND help out children and families that are less fortunate than ourselves then go on an FIMRC trip! It was one of the best experiences of my life.” - Joey C., volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
“Project Alajuelita was a great experience in which I was able to participate in the clinical atmosphere of another country as well as see the beauty and everything that Costa Rica had to offer! I highly recommend a global health project through FIMRC at least once in your lifetime!”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
“This is the ideal spring break. It combines the medical experience and typical spring break into an overall amazing experience. We were able to work in the clinic during the day, play soccer in the afternoon, and experience local culture at night. My 3 friends and I could not have had a better time.”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
“Overall I would DEFINITELY say that I would do it again. I almost didn't want to come back home. I wish we could have stayed longer. The people there were so receptive to what we were doing and patient with most of our group’s broken Spanish…Costa Rica is a beautiful country with even more beautiful people!”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
“My experience in Alajuelita, Costa Rica was absolutely incredible and far surpassed any of my expectations. The patients were so loving and appreciative, the doctors were welcoming and informative, and the cultural experience of being immersed in a foreign country was incomparable. Even if you are not interested in a medical career, I highly recommend anyone to get involved in this incredible organization to experience global outreach.”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
“My experience with FIMRC was so far past extraordinary, finding an apt description is difficult. All I can say is however much fun you think you will have is just a trace of how much fun you will actually have.”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
“Volunteering in Costa Rica was amazing. I did so much in seven days, more than I thought I ever could. Working in the clinic was such a humbling experience and I loved going to the soup kitchen to do health education. Being at the soup kitchen, you really get to interact and play with the kids and teach them. I felt important and that I was helping them better their future. Even after our clinic and volunteer days FIMRC helped us plan an awesome weekend traveling and doing activities such as zip lining. It was a trip I will never forget and tell all of my friends about.”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
“This experience was extremely rewarding for pre-medical undergraduate students. As a professor and mentor, I was able to see my students mature in the span of one week. This trip allowed my students to appreciate the human side of medicine, and to treat patients as people and not as a hypothetical illness. I recommend this experience to any collegiate pre-medical program.”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
“Everyone with FIMRC was wonderful, friendly and very accommodating. They made the experience wonderful and made everyone feel comfortable and at ease. We really felt like an FIMRC family.”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
“So often you hear people and organizations say, "We want to make a difference." Well, FIMRC truly does! I have never experienced such a group of caring people, so passionate and enthusiastic about their contribution to a society. They know what they want to do and exactly how they want to do it. I was greatly impressed with not only their knowledge, but their commitment to the patient's quality of life. I WILL work with FIMRC again and I encourage others to as well!!” - Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"My volunteer mission with FIMRC was an amazing, eye-opening experience. I was able to work with other volunteers and doctors in order to provide healthcare to some of the most amazing, beautiful children I have ever met. Not only did I feel like I gave something to that community in Alajuelita, but I felt that they gave something back to me. I will forever keep my experience with FIMRC and Costa Rica close to my heart." - Meghan, volunteered 2008
"The amount of hands-on medical work you're able to do is amazing. I never could've dreamed we would be able to do so much - from filling prescriptions to doing an exam alongside the doctor to translating for non-Spanish speakers - the experience was better than I ever could have dreamed of!" - Stephanie, volunteered 2007
"I loved everything about this trip; it opened my eyes to a new world. This trip confirmed my desires to study medicine and give back to those less fortunate! My host family was amazing as well!" -Sean, volunteered 2006
"I will always remember my stay in Costa Rica. I miss my homestay family and the clinic every day!" – Elise, volunteered 2007
"The program was truly amazing and it gave me a new perspective on health." – Manessa, volunteered Feb 2007
"Although my FIMRC experience lasted only 1 week, it changed my life. I look forward to working with FIMRC for many years to come." - Jeffrey, volunteered 2007
"My favorite part of the mission was prepping the patients to see the doctor. This is where your interpersonal skills are truly tested, especially if you do not speak the same language. Somehow the barrier gets broken down and you are still able to get to know the patients, have fun, and ameliorate their worries and boredom." – Anonymous, volunteered 2009
"This trip opened my eyes to the world around me! It changed my life!" – Boris, fall 2009
"It was an excellent opportunity to work closely with doctors and registered nurses. It's an entirely different culture and the healthcare aspect was also extremely different. The most important thing I learned from this trip was that to be a good doctor, you have to be a friend first, physician second."- Leslie, volunteered Winter Break '10/'11
"My trip to El Salvador with FIMRC far exceeded my expectations. It was easily the best trip that I have taken. The people were so friendly and it was great to be able to help them in any way. It made me appreciate everything we have here so much more. On our free time over the weekend, we got to experience the nature of El Salvador. We spent a day at the beach and another day hiking and jumping down 7 huge waterfalls! I would highly recommend taking a trip to Las Delicias."- Jordan, volunteered Winter Break '10/'11
"Volunteering for project Las Delicias was definitely life-changing. From making health-related house calls up and down mountainous terrain to vaccinating children and adults to shadowing the clinic's physician, I couldn't ask for a more hands-on experience. I also got a chance to be fully immersed into the El Salvadorian culture due to the warm and kind hospitality I received from the local community and FIMRC staff. Finally, the sight of seeing smiles and hope on the faces of the children and their mothers after their doctor visits was priceless. This experience gave life a new meaning for me! "- Catherine, volunteered Winter Break '10/'11
"I think we all came back more..."humble" I believe is the word. We learned more from the people there than they could ever learn from us. It was an amazing experience and a very intense energy exchange! Thank you!"- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"Volunteering in El Salvador was one of the best trips of my life! I do not speak Spanish and went with other students from my university that I had just met on the trip. By the end of my stay in El Salvador, my fellow volunteers had become my best friends and the community of Las Delicias felt like my own. Language and culture were not barriers at all. I laughed with people even though we didn't speak the same language and I became immersed in their culture. My experiences opened up my soul and enlighten my life."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"Alex and Tania were absolutely wonderful to work with and they made this experience what it was in addition to the beautiful people of Las Delicias. Their compassion and concern for the people was truly inspiring."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"This is definitely an experience of a lifetime. It makes you appreciate what you have and opens your eyes to a whole different culture and living standard. The kids there are so loving, energetic, and happy. Regardless of the language barrier, they accept you and just want to play with you. They will truly melt your heart. When you go on these trips, you want to keep coming back and helping. I truly had the most wonderful time during El Salvador. I've been to Costa Rica and Peru as well. I can honestly say each trip is different and the people are just as unique and amazing in each location."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"I met some of the most amazing kids in the world. They are so happy all the time, and they really appreciate you playing with them. Their positive outlook of the world changed my perspective about my own world."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"FIMRC El Salvador was an excellent experience all around; great clinic, wonderful village, solid and helpful staff. We're coming back!"- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"Going to El Salvador was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"It was a once in a life time experience! Everyone was so kind and inviting, and we had countless opportunities to get intimate and familiar with the people of the community. It really makes you feel like you're making a difference. I'll never forget this trip!!" - Rebecca, volunteered Feb 2008
"FIMRC was able to provide me with, hands down, THE best experience. It exceeded my expectations on all levels. My trip to Las Delicias will remain the most rewarding eight days of my life. I was able to form the strongest friendships with 8 other university students, one medical doctor, and two FIMRC correspondents, all of whom I still remain close with today! With an open-mind and flexibility, this trip will surpass all your expectations." - Ashwin, volunteered Feb 2008
"El Salvador was an amazing and life-changing experience! Not overrun with tourists, our volunteer group got to participate in local communities through clinic work and explore the wilderness of an amazing country! We climbed a volcano, jumped over waterfalls, explored sandy beaches and local markets, and had some amazing El Salvadorian food! We bonded with the local children, learned to vaccinate people, and bonded in ways that transcend verbal description! I had an amazing experience and would do it again in a heart beat!" -Emily, volunteered Dec 2009
"The best part of FIMRC Project Las Delicias was getting to know the community of Las Delicias. It felt like once you interacted with some of the residents, they remembered you and made sure they said hello the next time they saw you. Also, doing house calls and learning techniques for examinations without the latest technologies is very useful for future reference." – Armani, volunteered Dec 2009
“I love to travel and see other parts of the world. By spending part of my time volunteering (there was still plenty of time to see the area when not working), I got to see and get a feel for a place in so much more depth than any previous travel I've done. It was more enjoyable than just being a tourist. It's a cliché, but I got more out of it than I could possibly have given.”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"I love to travel and see other parts of the world. By spending part of my time volunteering (there was still plenty of time to see the area when not working), I got to see and get a feel for a place in so much more depth than any previous travel I've done. It was more enjoyable than just being a tourist. It's a cliché, but I got more out of it than I could possibly have given." – Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"I had heard great things from a group that worked with the FIMRC in Uganda last year, so I modeled our (India) trip after what they did. We spent two weeks with (FOM) Sandra and about five days seeing historical/tourist sites, like Delhi anad the Taj Mahal. Our time with the FIMRC was easily the best part of our trip. The work you are doing there is very needed, and we were honored to help in a small way. We all loved playing with the children and will never forget our experiences with the FIMRC.”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"The two weeks with the FIMRC was also the only part of the trip when we really got to know people from India, and become immersed in the culture, living and eating with people from India. Sandra in particular was incredible, and much more than a guide. We all feel like we now have a friend in India, and if she ever travels to the US, I hope she comes to stay with my family in Colorado. I completely agree with the comment two cadets made on the way home when they said, "Sandra was the best thing about our whole trip."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"I will highly recommend my colleagues submit a similar trip to India next summer to experience the same things we did this summer with the FIMRC. Thank you so much for the incredible experiences, and please give my thanks and the thanks from all of the cadets, to Sandra, who made this a trip none of us will ever forget. It was an extremely worthwhile adventure." – USAFA Cadet, volunteered 2010
"The second I stepped off the plane, it felt like I was getting right back on again. This trip is something I will never forget. I made friends and made memories that I will continuously share with everyone I meet. Thank you FIMRC for such an amazing experience. I CAN'T WAIT UNTIL I CAN GO ON ANOTHER TRIP!!" - Anonymous, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
"My trip to Nicaragua was easily the most amazing and inspiring experience of my life. I was able to volunteer in clinics, play soccer with young children, make medicinal ointments from herbs, and participate in many other activities. Towards the end of my experience I truly felt like a member of the community and I was able to see the positive impact of my volunteer work firsthand. I will forever cherish these moments in my heart. Thanks FIMRC!" - Melanie, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
"Most amazing, eye-opening experience of my life! I loved befriending the locals and watching my project donation have an impact on the local community first hand." - Kenny, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
"If it weren't for the countless memories I captured through photos, I would think my entire trip to Nicaragua was a dream. The country is beautiful and the people are heartwarming. The community truly appreciates everything you do and it's an amazing feeling knowing that your time spent there helps them." - Anonymous, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
"Honestly, this experience completely changed my life. The people we met were by far the nicest and most welcoming, and the children we played with were sweet and full of life. My time in Nicaragua opened my eyes, and gave me a burning passion to return to Central America to help continue the amazing work that FIMRC is doing there." - Anonymous, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
"Project Limon was one of the best volunteer experiences I have ever had. Not only did I get to observe and help out in various clinics (which was truly eye-opening), but the community there was so welcoming I felt like I was at home, even during Christmas. If I get the opportunity, I would definitely travel with FIMRC again!" - Anonymous, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
"My first mission with FIMRC in 2009: I left with a tattoo and intentions to run for office at my school's chapter. My second mission trip in 2010: I left with intentions of living there after graduation. Third in 2011: I'm scared to think what it will make me do! Just be prepared for your perspective on life to change drastically in just a week!"- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"Limón, Nicaragua provided probably one of the best spring breaks I could have ever imagined. We were working during the day helping others and giving to their community and in return had the afternoon/night to enjoy the wonderful surroundings and facilities offered to us from the beach to all the great local restaurants. I could not have imagined a better experience. It was definitely the best of both worlds in that you did not entirely give up your spring break. You gave and it gave back! I loved it!"- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"As always, my week-long global volunteering experience with FIMRC has been a highlight of my year."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"FIMRC provided me with a feeling that I have directly helped in an important cause and an immersion into a totally different culture. It allowed me for a while to put aside the usually controlling sentiment of doing everything to get into medical school. For once I was doing something that made me feel like I was finally contributing rather than sitting idly in a classroom. This program was one of the best experiences I have had."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"The satisfaction of providing healthcare to children in developing countries is immeasurable. I firmly believe that my participation in the FIMRC Global Health Volunteer Program in Nicaragua not only allowed me to help those who are in dire need of medical attention in underserved areas, but also to become more culturally aware by opening my eyes to a world that is far different than the one in which I live."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"This was an awesome opportunity for students seeking to enter the medical field to learn what it's like to give back to a developing country. After completing pharmacy school, I plan on returning to a developing country and using my profession to help those in need. For those unsure about international missions, I feel like FIMRCs international projects will change their lives and make them want to return to help more in the future."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"FIMRC is an exceptional organization that truly helps underprivileged families in Nicaragua. They provide a great atmosphere for volunteers to come and help in the community and I would definitely come back to do another mission with FIMRC in the future!"- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"I feel at peace knowing that I spent my summer trying to make a difference and learning about the world rather than focusing on my own enjoyment. I really believe that participating in these programs is one way to experience true happiness."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"Volunteering in Nicaragua was a eye-opening experience. The clinic and hospital staff are superb. They immerse you in the experience, and learning is a large part of the process. The community is extremely safe and everybody knows everybody. Not to mention you're only a 5 minute walk to the beach. If I get the chance to volunteer again, I'm for sure going back to Nicaragua." -Anonymous, volunteered Jan 2010
"Not only did I have an awesome clinical experience in the clinic in Limon and the hospital in Rivas, Nicaragua, but I got a chance to be in touch with the community. We walked through their dirt-floor houses, we danced with the natives, we cooked tortillas with the village "mom", and I believe it was the most valuable and inspiring week that I have had in a long time. Thank you FIMRC." - Melissa, volunteered Jan 2010
"My time spent in Nicaragua is something that I will never forget. I was able to work with children, their families, and the youth within the community all while speaking a language that is not my own. I loved every minute that I spent in Nicaragua and would definitely love to go on another medical relief trip in the near future." – Daphne, volunteered Sep 2009
"It was a priceless experience. It is by far the best experience that I have ever had and has really helped me to define what I want to do with the rest of my life. I am already hoping and planning on returning next year. The children have made a lasting impression on me and I will never forget the people that I met at the hospital for the uninsured. I cannot put into words how wonderful of an experience it was." - Anonymous, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
"My name is Rachel and my favorite part about this volunteering mission was all of the time we got to spend with the kids. Giving the kids fluoride at the park and in the orphanage along with toothbrushes was an amazing experience." - Rachel, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
"My name is Sydney and my volunteer mission to Huancayo was absolutely amazing. From getting to know the community to helping those in need, it was extremely life changing. This hands-on experience truly makes me feel grateful for what I have. My favorite part of the mission was seeing all the children smile just by giving then a simple coloring book or playing games. These people really need our help! I recommend this trip because it opens your eyes just that much bigger to the real life in the developing world and offers you that exposure." - Sydney, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
"It will change your life!" - Matt, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
"It is very difficult to take everything in during a week long experience, but on my way back, and now that I have been home for a while, I look back and ask myself if the people we met would be upset at how much water we waste, how much food we have. But the fact is that the answer to those questions does not matter, what matters is our will to remember the people, the children we met and our will to go back and keep helping. I realize that what I did is small in comparison to what needs to be done, but regardless I know that what I did has meaning, and if I relay the message of our obligation to help the neediest, and the joy the smile of the children brought to myself and the other volunteers, I hope that others will be inclined to join missions like that of FIMRC. I remember the names of some of those children, and they have had such a huge impact in my life that I hope to go back and look for those very same children and hope that what our group taught them gave them a bit more knowledge to keep their minds occupied, their lives a bit healthier, and I hope that the small gifts we were able to give them brought more smiles to their lives. I feel like I have an obligation to go back." - Melissa, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
"This volunteer opportunity is different than anything you'll ever experience. I was exposed to parts of Peru that most people will never get to see throughout their whole lives!! It is truly amazing to have the opportunity to make a difference in these kids' lives. They really do need this help. Every child was unique and different and AMAZING!! I loved all of them and Peru!!! I miss it already! " - Jill, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
"At first, I didn't know what to expect from the FIMRC trip. While on the trip, I learned much about the Peruvian culture as well as their medical care. It was definitely a life-changing experience and I would definitely like to go back! " - Anonymous, volunteered Winter Break ‘10/’11
"Being immersed in the Peruvian medical system was an interesting and eye-opening experience. FIMRC has developed relationships with various leaders in the institutions abroad and has provided a well planned mission to gain firsthand knowledge of various issues within the hospitals and orphanages as well as macro health and nutrition topics."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"Overall, this was a life-changing experience. My love for children and their well being grew to a different level while in Peru. My goal to show compassion to all was reached when I visited the orphanages and realized that every child wants to know someone in the world cares about them. I hope that I eluded this as I travelled throughout Huancayo."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"The people, the culture, and the trip as a whole was unforgettable and I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to participate in such an extraordinary, life changing experience."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"My trip was everything I hoped for and more! I was immersed in a world entirely different than what I am used to, and I think I am a more, well-rounded person for it. I would highly recommend volunteering through FIMRC. You will have nothing to worry about: the lodging is comfortable, the food is delectable, and the people are amazing!"- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"My favorite part of this experience was the ability to be able to speak with the local physicians and hear their point of view of medicine in their country and understand the difficulties that they face in treating patients from day to day."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"The Summer International Health Fellowship program in Huancayo was an excellent experience and a huge success. Elena and Judith are great and working very hard to improve the quality of life of the Peruvians!"- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"Definitely go on a mission! The 3 weeks I spent in Peru were life changing and when it was time to leave I wished I had more time to stay down there. It really gives you a whole new perspective on life. I felt like I matured as a person and not only had so many great volunteering experiences but also met so many cool volunteers down there who I still keep in touch with. Don't hesitate to sign up for a trip, you won't regret it."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"My trip to Huancayo was amazing! I was able to experience medicine on a new level and able to see things I wouldn't necessarily be able to see in the US. I enjoyed spending time with all the kids at the orphanages and seeing their excitement when we arrived. Peru is a beautiful country full of generous and caring people, and I can't wait to return."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"The Summer International Health Fellowship was a great opportunity to be able to learn and experience the international health field as well as be able to work with members of the community. The morning rotations in the hospital allowed me the chance to watch many different medical procedures and to learn about diseases and complications that face the people of Peru that are different from in the United States. Then, every afternoon was a special time as we were able to interact with kids who just need a little bit of love and want to play! The kids truly are amazing despite diverse situations. It was a great trip!"- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"My experience on the SIHF program in Huancayo was absolutely amazing. Our homestay was welcoming, comfortable, and everything I could have asked for; Elena (our site coordinator) was so great, as she dealt with irate doctors, guided us around the city, and was just a wonderful friend; the hospital/clinical experience was incredibly eye-opening; and the volunteer experiences were so in depth and--even though its clichéd--life changing. We each scrubbed in on a surgery, saw at least one live birth, and saw countless other procedures and examinations. The level of immersion was so far beyond anything I could have expected. And just by getting to talk to the patients, the doctors, and the medical students, you really got a sense of Peru as a country, and got a look into how the country is changing, and the challenges it still faces. However, the personal connections I made with some of the people I met will really be what stays with me-especially in my last week in pediatrics. The volunteer component every afternoon was also so immersive and eye opening--we worked with a home for kids with HIV, a home for abused and abandoned girls, a home for teenage mothers, and a two other orphanages. Those three in particular however have really stayed in my memories--I really felt like the work we were doing was actually making a difference, though I probably learned much more from the kids we worked with than they learned from me. Overall it was so much fun, so challenging and so great."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"I had such a wonderful experience in Peru. I met amazing people and volunteered in the most fulfilling areas throughout the country. I loved every moment I shared with the communities in Peru! I already want to go back!!"- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"I absolutely loved this experience and everything about it. Being able to have medical experiences as well as be able to help out in the community was perfect. I felt safe and taken care of by Elena and Henry."- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"I went to Nicaragua and it was a truly eye-opening experience. We did a lot of hands-on work in the community and had a lot of opportunity to learn about the people, the culture, and the healthcare system that is provided to the people there." -Gabriel, volunteered Sep 2009
"This is truly a rewarding experience that you will get much out of. Without out sounding cliche, it's a once in a lifetime experience!" - Anonymous, volunteered 2007
"It was truly an amazing experience - nothing can put it all down in words. I can talk for days and days and it still would not do justice to the magnitude of what we did. I got to experience things that perhaps 3rd or 4th year medical students here MIGHT get to see. And to be in their culture and accept things the way they do - it was really very amazing." - Anonymous, volunteered 2008
"Our trip to Peru with FIMRC was the most memorable and meaningful trip I have ever taken. We were able to witness life-changing surgeries and care for kids who needed so much love. This is one trip I will never forget!!" -Allison, volunteered Dec 2009
"Our trip to Huancayo was spectacular. Our coordinator and host family were very sweet and supportive, which added tremendously to the experience. We learned a lot about the state of health care and illness in Peru, and even got the opportunity to witness a live surgery." – Anonymous, volunteered Jan 2009
"My FIMRC experience was completely amazing! The opportunity to interact within the community and play even a small role in people's health and well-being is something that will stay with me for years. I know that I will be a better medical professional because of the exposure I received and the projects I was a part of on my FIMRC trip." – Jessica, volunteered Dec 2009
“I loved learning about another culture as well as gaining medical experience. I have made memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.” - Christina, volunteered Winter Break '10/'11
“My overall experience was phenomenal! Although we went as health volunteers, I fortunately learned a lot about the people and the issues that took place there. Not only did I learn about medicine and culture in Uganda, I discovered a lot about myself. So, thank you for such an amazing and eye opening experience!”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
“My experience in Uganda was truly unforgettable. I met incredible people, both FIMRC staff and residents of the community. I learned about life in a rural village, about medical practice in Africa, about the needs of the community, and also a great deal about myself and what I want to do in the future. After this experience, I hope to contribute more to FIMRC by increasing support and awareness of the organization at my school and collecting/sending donations.”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
“(It) was wonderful. I would do it all over again. Since I have never traveled anywhere other than Mexico, this trip has definitely taken me out of my bubble. It has encouraged me to want to travel to other countries to volunteer and help out.”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
“My favorite part of the trip was the experience of being a part of another culture, such as eating the foods, learning about the health issues, participating in community education, teaching a health class, learning the language, and so much more. It was a great experience that I would do all over again. The people are so kind and accepting. At first I contemplated going on the trip, but I am really glad that I chose to go because it is a wonderful learning experience that opens your eyes and your heart.”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
“Living in Bumwalukani for the better of 3 weeks was the most life-changing experience I've had to date. I knew some places in Uganda had a lower quality of life and problems with diseases of HIV and Malaria and what not, but until I went to these HIV+ people's homes and talked with them, and filled out surveys for an orphanage on children who have Malaria 5 times a month and have one meal a day, and distributed a small amount of food to someone that was supposed to last them two weeks--it's all just hear say. The "out of sight out of mind" mentality. It's sobering but also rewarding to know that people who have the ability to volunteer their time, supplies, even money to places like this--it is so valued. I was told over and over again by people in the community, "thank you" for my time and work. It's because of organizations like FIMRC that children are being treated medically free of charge and offering support groups for expecting mothers, people HIV+, and even groups for family planning. Wonderful, wonderful things are being done here and I'm very proud to say I was apart of it.”- Anonymous, volunteered 2010
"I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at the Bumwalukani clinic and found it quite meaningful. I was impressed by the work the clinic does and found the FIMRC Field Operations Manager to be extremely capable in running the clinic and working with volunteers." - Anonymous, volunteered 2008
"I felt I got to know a lot about and interact with the community, thanks to outings with staffers to another clinic, a hospital, a home being built, a dinner in someone's house, and markets - and just meeting people on the road/trails." - Anonymous, volunteered 2008
"A great way to experience rural Africa." -Anonymous, volunteered 2007
"My experience in Uganda was life changing. It was incredibly rewarding work and gave me a sense of fulfillment." – Anonymous, volunteered 2007
"You have an opportunity to be involved with an amazingly warm, welcoming community that is responsive and appreciative of all your efforts." – Anonymous, volunteered Dec 2009
