how volunteer abroad

[CNAinNeb]

Ok, this is not even remotely related to nursing, but does anyone know of an agency that will allow you to volunteer abroad for, w/o a long-term commitment like the Peace Corps? Something 2-6 weeks in duration, and relatively affordable would be ideal. I would prefer something that would allow me to do some health education, or something else related to health, but any opportunity would be awesome. Any suggestions? Thanks.

[heavenly14313]

you might be able to find something if you check out some study abroad programs. Some last just a couple of weeks [going to semenars (god, that doesn't look right - how do you spell that? lol). touring different hospitals, studying that culture and lang, etc) while others are for semesters at a time (actually enrolling and attending another school across seas). I don't know exactly what you're wanting to do but study abroad programs vary in what they offer...

[Jolie, BSN]

You might want to PM stevielynn, a regular poster here at AN who has done overseas medical mission trips.

Also, I know of at least one parish in our fair city that sponsors members on missionary trips, which are primarily religious in nature. PM me if you'd like the name.

[ShiphrahPuah]

Check out mmint.org (Medical Missions International). They have trips to many different countries (mostly in the Caribbean) and will take all kinds of medical help, including CNAs and students (as long as they have enough doctors and nurses already for a specific trip). I have gone on mission trips to Haiti in the past (not medical) and recently met the sister of the director of the Haitian branch of MMI. She was very encouraging when I told her I really wanted to go on some medical mission trips. MMI is an unashamedly Christian organization, so if that offends you, you might want to check out other options. This May and June I am graduating, taking my family to Disney World, taking one of my sons to Haiti with the organization I have been to Haiti with in the past, taking the NCLEX, and starting a new job, so I won't be able to work with MMI this summer, but I hope to volunteer as often as possible after this year.

You might also want to check out Mercy Ships which takes medical personnel to locations along coastlines where people have little to no access to medical care. I think you may need to be an RN to volunteer there though -- not sure. Mercy Ships is also a Christian organization. Once you are an RN, I think Doctors Without Borders may be an option, and I don't think that is specifically a Christian organization. All cool opportunities to make a difference in the world!

[ipaharpoon]

Something like Operation Smile (cleft lips and palates) and Operation Rainbow (orthopedics) may be what you're looking for. Op. Smile missions are usually 1-2 weeks and cost the volunteer about $500, much less than other programs. Op. Rainbow, I'm not as sure about..