VIDA medical volunteer opportunity

My name is Benjamin Zuniga, and I am currently a Texas A&M student and I am also a senior graduating class of 2022 in May. I just recently began studying for the entrance nursing exam at UT-Health as my career path focusing on becoming a surgical nurse aspiring to save lives. I am here today to inform you about a great opportunity that has been presented to me. Texas A&M Vida Volunteer is a non-profit humanitarian volunteer organization whose mission is to provide quality healthcare to underserved communities while providing volunteers a life changing experience. Along with affiliate groups at other distinguished universities, our Vida team recruits student volunteers and medical professionals, gathers donations, and then travels to Central America to perform these medical, dental, and veterinary medicine brigades under direct supervision of local professionals, such as physicians, dentists, and veterinarians. Along with providing free basic medical, dental, and veterinary care, students will visit several communities and participate in community projects that aim to better the quality of life in these impoverished areas.. There will also be an emphasis on Public Health and Education for the clinic patients and community members. This year, we get the opportunity to visit Guatemala, the biggest country in Central America. Unfortunately, it also sets a record by having one of the highest disparities between rich and poor as well as one of the highest poverty levels worldwide, with 54% of the population living below the poverty line in 2006 and 54% in 2011. By participating in the medical program, I will  gain hands-on, culturally, and clinically immersive training. I will also be provided the opportunity to work side by side with local physicians in diagnosing, treating, and educating patients.This program will allow me to observe diverse cases; from diseases that specifically manifest in Central American communities, to general conditions that occur worldwide. Most importantly, the medical program improves students’ cross-cultural communication skills and fosters respect for others of different backgrounds.The trip cost is approximately $2,200 taking a span of 13 days and I would greatly appreciate any donations as I am currently struggling financially and I believe this opportunity will help me stand out in my entrance application as well as gain experience. I have also provided a link below of the VIDA website if you are interested in learning more about the organization as well as the trip. Any donations will be greatly appreciated,

Thank you so much,

https://www.vidavolunteer.org/medical-program/