Public Health Volunteer in Ecuador

The Tandana Foundation is seeking a volunteer to assist with health care projects in mountain villages in the Otavalo canton of Ecuador, a region that is rich in natural beauty and cultural diversity. This position is available year-round, and the minimum time commitment is 9 months.

Position Description

Your main responsibility will be to assist patients of all ages from Tandana’s Community Health and Well-being Program who need additional care. This will involve contacting them and walking them through the public health system. You will work alongside local healthcare professionals and Tandana staff to set up and accompany patients to all necessary appointments at the rural health centers and the hospitals in Otavalo, Ibarra, or Quito. Additionally, depending on your availability and interests as well as Tandana's needs, you may participate in other projects such as facilitating a class for the elderly to promote brain development and activity, assisting a local doctor or a midwife, or giving health talks at local schools. Finally, you will serve as a cultural ambassador and a positive representative of The Tandana Foundation. In return, you will be placed with a host family, which will allow countless opportunities to explore the indigenous cultures and subsistence lifestyles of highland Ecuador as well as the natural environment around you. You will also be given all the support you need to succeed in your work and be encouraged to accomplish your personal goals.

Requirements:

• Conversational/Fluent Spanish
• Experience living in cross-cultural situations, preferably in Latin America
• Demonstrated interest in a health profession or the field of public health (specific credentials are not necessary)
• Ability to work cooperatively with a diverse array of people, to solve problems creatively, and to promote a positive experience for all involved
• Self-motivation, responsibility, and an ability to work independently
• Minimum age is 21
• Minimum time commitment is 9 months
• Completion of Global Ambassadors for Global Safety Course

Responsibilities:

• Follow up with patients from Tandana Community Health and Well-being Program who need additional care
• Engage in other healthcare projects as needed
• Represent Tandana in a positive manner to all community members and volunteers and help to build good relationships

Benefits:

• The opportunity to participate in unique cultural activities and be a part of a dynamic, multi-cultural team
• Detailed orientation and ongoing support from Tandana's Ecuador Program Manager
• Room and board with a local family (homestay)
• Work expenses including local transportation, cell phone, and consular fees. (Volunteers pay their own airfare to Ecuador)