Volunteering at CASAPrograms for Interns, Professionals, Locals
The CASA internship program began with the intent to offer (1) a humanistic agenda created for the promotion of learning exchanges between young people and professionals in the health and social development fields and (2) the lessening of racism and prejudice worldwide. It is a full-time, 3-month minimum volunteer position at CASA's facilities in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Interns divide their time among each of CASA's numerous programs, engaging in rural outreach work, house-visits, observing and aiding in the clinic, aiding at the day care center, taking on administrative tasks such as grant writing, the production of CASA's newsletter, database development, and assisting with mailings. In the past, interns have initiated their own projects at CASA, such as a domestic violence workshop and a program focused on coping with grief after pregnancy-loss. At heart, the internship is self-directed and each intern's involvement at CASA is informed by the skills and experience they bring. But if help is ever needed, former interns, current CASA staff, and CASA's founder, Nadine Goodman, will always be available for questions, suggestions, or support. For more information on the program and how to apply, click here.
Our Profesional Volunteer Program is open to all studying and licensed professionals, especially in the medical field. The position can be an in-clinic rotation, a month of on-the-ground outreach work, or a professional exchange amongst fundraisers, accountants, or directors. Doctors, nurses, midwives, and medical students are welcome to negociate arrangements with the CASA Maternity Hospital. Specialists in particular fields are encouraged to offer classes to the student-midwives at our School of Professional Midwifery. And professionals in other fields are more than welcome to apply and work side by side CASA staff and offer classes in their area of focus. For more information on the program and how to apply, click here.
CASA always welcomes local volunteers, whether it's to teach classes at the library, to help take care of our day care's children, or to assist with fundraising and development. Spanish competency is a must, and being able to develop a stable schedule is recommended. For more information, email the current CASA interns.
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From the SourceFormer Volunteers' Experiences
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Alessandra, Sara, and Anya, CASA Interns, out with PESANE, CASA's Sexual Education Team |
"My second week at the CASA hospital, the doctors waived their personal wages to help a young girl suffering from a large abdominal tumor. She had been unable to pay for the surgery at the state hospital and as it was not life threatening, she had no choice but to live with the abnormal growth. It was almost 16 pounds when it was removed. In this one incident alone, I was touched by the doctor's compassion and the need of the Mexican people.
This experience has strongly influenced my personal development in the value I place on education and quality health care, and the way I view my responsibility as a future physician. I have learned how lucky I am to live in a country where people have access to safe healthcare and this experience has strengthened my desire to dedicate my career to providing quality medical expertise to those in need."
Jesse Maki, former CASA Intern, Summer 2003
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