"
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 Alajuelita, Costa Rica
Challenge:
The community of Alajuelita is home to a large underserved population of host country nationals and Nicaraguan refugees. Project Alajuelita tackles daily challenges on diarrhea, head lice, malnutrition, persistent bronchial infections, gastrointestinal microbe infections, and parasitic infections with education, outreach, and acute and preventative care. Additionally, an increased incidence in unplanned pregnancies has prompted site staff to devise family planning programs for adolescents. 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 Clinic Doctor 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:
Homestay Coordinator Rita Zuniga will match Ambassadors/Fellows with a host family, taking into consideration any food restrictions and allergies. All home stays are located in Santa Ana, San Jose, 20 minutes in vehicle from the FIMRC Clinic. Housing includes home-cooked Costa Rican meals three times a day. All transportation is provided by FIMRC Driver Alvaro Gonzalez.
Cost:
Details are available upon request during the recruitment process.
Visa Requirements:
US citizens are not required to obtain a visa if they will be in Costa Rica less than 6 months. If Ambassadors/Fellows are not U.S. passport holders, they are responsible for obtaining a visa before departure.
Past Projects:
- Water filtration project
- Creation of evaluation mechanisms for clinic patients, including a survey and feedback tools
- Investigation and evaluation of effectiveness of Electronic Medical Records in Project Alajuelita clinic
