Our care extends beyond our walls and across borders. Our volunteers aim to improve the health and well-being of our partner communities locally, regionally and globally. We’re also building relationships at home, connecting students in our neighborhoods with caring adults. This work is an important part of our mission and our vision. It’s who we are.
We exist to improve the health and well-being of the global communities we serve by inspiring volunteerism throughout Gundersen Health System and local communities. This is our mission.
We will be a model for community-to-community partnerships that empower global communities to improve their health and quality of life. This is our vision.
At our core, we value:
- Sustainability by bettering our partner communities for the future.
- Relationships by partnering with respect and authentic listening.
- Volunteerism by giving our time and talents to serve others.
- Stewardship by acting responsibly with the resources entrusted to us.
We build resilience in some of our youngest neighbors by pairing students with volunteers who serve as caring mentors.
Our teams work with tribal schools, community groups and healthcare providers to empower the Lakota community on Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota to improve their health and quality of life. Our work includes providing physical exams, behavioral health workshops, and CPR and first aid training.
After years of volunteering in Nicaragua and Costa Rica, we are exploring new opportunities in Guatemala. Our work in Central America has included vision screenings, women’s health, community development and education initiatives.
Our volunteers work alongside Ethiopian teams to deliver medical, surgical and dental care. Together, we’re also providing educational opportunities for health professionals and students and care for vulnerable children.
World events and the spread of COVID-19 continue to disrupt our lives and that includes travel restrictions to keep us safe. Our programs in Ethiopia and Central America are suspended indefinitely. It is our hope that we can resume our work as soon as world factors change.
We’re here to answer your questions about our program.
You can find us at 1836 South Ave., H02-005, in La Crosse, Wis., 54603 or on Facebook.