Summer Medical Service Trip

Hi everyone,

I’m a first-year US medical student interested in doing a medical mission trip this summer with a few classmates. My school offers a fully funded trip to the Dominican Republic each year, but spots are limited and assigned by lottery, and unfortunately we weren’t selected.

We’re now looking for opportunities in Latin America to volunteer and serve. In our research, we’ve noticed that many organizations charge high fees, and so we are looking for a more budget-friendly option.

We’re wondering if anyone has experience directly reaching out to nonprofit clinics or local organizations to volunteer independently, without going through a formal (and expensive) program. We’re hoping to go for about a week (possibly to Guatemala?) but are open to suggestions.

If anyone has advice, experiences, or recommendations, we’d really appreciate it. Thank you!!