THE SITUATION
Over one billion people who reside in developing countries survive on less than $1 USD per day. Over 2.5 billion people are living on less than $2 USD per day. More than 2.6 billion people across our planet lack access to toilets and other sanitation facilities; and 30,000 children under the age of 5, die every day, mainly from dehydration, undernourishment, and preventable diseases. Clinics and hospitals are too few, and they are all too often inadequately staffed and poorly equipped. Because of this devastating poverty, about one-third of the world’s population lacks adequate access to quality health care, including medicines which is a disturbing constant ratio that leaders of the WHO and other public health experts have cited over several decades. Poverty is clearly the key element behind the lack of access to health care. However, considering investment in health care also as a contributor to economic growth and social improvement. In 2005, former Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda spoke about the HIV/AIDS crisis in Africa and said that this challenge requires total commitment of all stakeholders, on country, regional and international levels. There is a critical need for establishment of networks and partnerships at various levels that are committed to overcoming key issues relating to financing, scientific collaboration, training in prevention and treatment, etc. This seems to be the only viable solution which could have a dramatic effect not just on AIDS in Africa and other poor regions, but also help to control other diseases and epidemics confronting such large populations in developing countries throughout.
The international volunteer programs we offer will provide you with an opportunity to work with mobile clinics, community health programs, and work in community health centres and clinics. As a volunteer, you can assist with teaching communities and people on general health and hygiene, HIV/AIDS as well as antenatal and prenatal care. Another option we have is to assist with community outreach projects which also involve visiting the HIV infected areas to check up and determine if these individuals are taking their medication as prescribed by their doctor. If you feel up to it, the volunteers on this program are encouraged to offer counselling to those affected and to educate them on entrepreneurial skills so that they can become self-reliant and become more effective with providing for their family or future family.