Kaya Health Care Volunteering Projects in Peru

  Peru

• Cusco: 
Cusco

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: The first Saturday of every month

Description: Whether you are a student, on a career break or retired there is a placement to suit your level. Those entering the medical profession will find volunteering in a developing country invaluable and inspiring. You will see what it is like not to have top level facilities and equipment available to you. Placements available range from hospitals, rural field clinics, house visits, nutrition, health education and public health research.

Public Health Research in Peru

Join ongoing health research projects that seek information about the specific health care needs and issues of communities within the Sacred Valley and Cusco. Kaya staff and volunteers work with public health professionals, local organizations, and community leaders in an effort to conduct scientifically sound and relevant research.

Research projects seek to determine the prevalence of specific diseases, to identify risk factors for such cases, and to pinpoint possible areas for appropriate and effective intervention. Results from this research will be used to formulate and guide health education initiatives, as well as be prepared for publication in public health journals.

Public Health Education in Peru

Help the people of the Sacred Valley and Cusco improve their health and increase their knowledge of preventative measures. In-country staff and volunteers work with the Department of Cusco to provide community members with access to qualified health care, preventative health care education, and training.

Volunteers may also opt to work with the birthing center where they may educate expectant and new mothers about prenatal and infant health. Ultimately, Kaya intends to establish health-care initiatives which will enable community members to gain the knowledge and skills needed to promote the health of themselves, their families, and their community.

Clinical Assistance in Peru

Bring health care access to disadvantaged and under served Peruvian communities by working in public and private medical institutions. Volunteers may opt to work with local hospitals and/or small clinics.

Volunteers working with local hospitals will serve the poor residents of communities by providing preventive health care and education, and offering free and low-cost health services. Local doctors and nurses assist volunteers in learning about the practice of medicine in resource-poor settings, as well as provide an invaluable perspective regarding the unique health-care needs and concerns of the surrounding communities.

Highlights: Known as the 'Land of the Incas,' Peru, with its geographic and cultural diversity, is a must-go destination at any time of year. Explore the jungles, beaches and ancient Andean trails whilst living amongst the Incan descendants, and join effective projects which help thousands of South America's poorest people.

Sandboarding on Huacachina:
Sandboarding is a fast-growing activity around the globe with strong roots in Peru. This is one of the best locations in the world for sandboarding as Peru boasts the largest sand dune in the world, Cerro Blanco, which stands at 2070m. Flying down the slopes with tremendous speed you are guaranteed an adrenaline rush and a thrilling experience.

Mountain climbing/Canyoning/Rappling:
The most exciting experience available near Cusco, the sport of canyoning introduces you to the beautiful countryside within the archaeological complex of Pisac while delivering an inimitable adrenaline rush. At Pisac a canyon cuts into the Vilcanota River valley from the NE. The gorge is 100 meters deep. This is wet, upside-down climbing on some beautifully sculpted river rocks.

Manu Biosphere Nature Reserve:
Manu National Park is one of the largest natural protected areas in the world. To see biodiversity on such an unparalleled scale is such a special experience. This UNESCO world heritage site contains about 15,000 species of plants, 250 varieties of trees, 800 species of birds and 200 species of mammals, including the endangered Jaguar.

Volunteers help the communities economically develop and take care of their natural environment. Furthermore, you provide health and social awareness trainings to the Peruvians to assist them in enriching their personal values.

Qualifications: Experience and passion for working in the community and interacting with the people are needed. Participants must also possess enthusiasm and a willingness to learn about the environment and the place's culture.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: A Kaya volunteer shows enthusiasm, spirit and life to stimulate and bring something new to the residents; love, patience and a listening ear for the people; and a good motivator with a positive and optimistic attitude.

Age Range: Must be more than 18 years old

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Peru Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Kaya Responsible Travel's Mission Statement: Kaya's mission is to promote sustainable social, environmental and economic development, empower communities and cultivate educated, compassionate global citizens through responsible travel.

Year Founded: 2008