General Info
What do volunteers do?
Volunteers work in a health center for approximately five hours a day. They work under the direction of local doctors and nurses and, depending on their qualifications, can contribute to a variety of medical areas including diagnostic tests, emergency medicine, infectious diseases, OB/GYN and primary care. The doctors and nurses determine the level of responsibility delegated to volunteers, but activities may include assisting in the emergency room, conducting patient exams, helping patients with their rehabilitation and therapy exercises and suturing wounds. Additionally, volunteers work with patients to educate them on topics like dental care, early childhood development, nutrition, personal hygiene and reproductive health.
COST INCLUDES
Among other services, the cost includes:
Preparation Briefing
The briefing offers you a wealth of information and helpful tips to prepare you for your trip.
UBELONG Mentor
UBELONG pairs you with a UBELONG Mentor, a highly experienced member of their team who works closely with you throughout your UBELONG experience.
Safety Meeting
Prior to your departure, you have a meeting with your UBELONG Mentor. You go over staying safe during your placement, as well as tips for getting the most out of your experience. The meetings generally occur over the phone or Skype, but if you are in the same location as your UBELONG Mentor they can occur in person.
Airport pickup
Orientation
The UBELONG local team leader gives you an orientation to go over everything from getting around to the work that you will be doing.
Housing
You live with other volunteers in a safe, comfortable and welcoming home in your community.
Food
You receive breakfast, lunch and dinner every day.
24/7 in-country support
Throughout your placement, UBELONG works with its local team leaders to provide you with any assistance that you may need.
Fundraising and networking
UBELONG holds fundraising and networking events throughout the year to support development initiatives. Join UBELONG online, in Washington, DC or wherever in the world we are holding an event.
COST DOES NOT INCLUDE
Airfare, travel medical insurance and miscellaneous spending like souvenirs, taxis, etc.
Benefits:
Program fees from US$360 (2 wks) to US$2,780 (6 mos)
Requirements:
-At least an intermediate level of Spanish.
-The flexibility to participate in many different activities depending on the ever-changing needs of the health center.
-At least a first-year student in medical school.
