Whether you are considering volunteering, making a donation, or simply learning more about our mission, we hope these answers help. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly.
What is the Peru Medical Mission?
We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing medical care, essential supplies, health education, and compassionate support to remote villages in Peru that have limited or no access to basic healthcare. Each year, a team of medical and non-medical volunteers travels to Peru to serve these communities directly.
How long has the organization been doing this?
Our mission has grown year after year, building lasting relationships with the communities we serve. Each trip expands our reach and deepens our impact.
Is the organization a registered nonprofit?
Yes. We are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Colorado. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Our EIN is 47-1046788.
Which communities do you serve in Peru?
We serve remote villages in Peru where geographic isolation and limited infrastructure make access to healthcare extremely difficult. These are communities with deep cultural roots and tremendous resilience, and we are honored to serve alongside them.
How do you select the communities you visit?
We identify communities based on need, accessibility, and existing relationships with local partners and organizations on the ground in Peru. Our goal is to return to the same communities over time to build trust and create lasting impact.
Who can volunteer?
Both medical and non-medical volunteers are welcome. We need physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, and other licensed healthcare professionals, as well as volunteers who can support logistics, translation, administration, education, photography, and general mission operations.
Do I need medical experience to volunteer?
No. While medical volunteers are essential, there are many meaningful roles for non-medical volunteers. A willing heart, a servant’s attitude, and a commitment to cultural respect are the most important qualifications.
How long is the mission trip?
Trip length varies by year. Contact us for the specific dates and duration of the current mission.
What are the physical requirements for volunteering?
Volunteers should be in reasonable physical health, as the work involves travel to remote areas, sometimes in challenging terrain and varying weather conditions. If you have specific health concerns, please contact us to discuss.
What costs are volunteers responsible for?
Volunteers are generally responsible for their own airfare, travel insurance, and personal expenses. Some mission costs may be covered depending on available funding. Contact us for a full breakdown of volunteer costs for the current mission.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
Spanish language skills are helpful but not required. We work with translators and encourage all volunteers to learn a few basic phrases before the trip. Spanish and Quechua speakers are especially welcome.
What should I bring?
We provide a detailed packing list to all confirmed volunteers during pre-trip orientation. General essentials include appropriate clothing for the region, personal medications, insect repellent, sunscreen, and any personal medical tools relevant to your role.
How do I apply to volunteer?
Contact us directly through our website to express your interest.
How are donations used?
Your donations directly fund the mission. Funds are used to purchase medical supplies and medications, cover operational and logistical costs, support health education programs, and ensure our volunteer team can serve as effectively as possible in the field.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, all financial donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. You will receive a written acknowledgment of your gift for your records.
How can I donate financially?
You can donate online securely through our PayPal donation link.
Can I donate supplies instead of money?
Absolutely. We gratefully accept donations of unexpired over-the-counter medications, first aid and wound care supplies, medical equipment, hygiene products, and health education materials. Please contact us before sending supplies so we can coordinate receipt and ensure items meet current mission needs.
Can my organization or business sponsor the mission?
Yes! We welcome partnerships from businesses, churches, clinics, and community organizations who want to make a larger impact. Sponsorships can fund specific needs, cover volunteer costs, or support the mission broadly. Contact us to discuss partnership opportunities.
How do I know my donation is being used responsibly?
We are committed to full financial transparency and accountability. We maintain formal financial policies, separation of duties, and board oversight of all funds. Our annual financial reports are available upon request.
Do you respect local traditions and culture?
Absolutely — cultural respect is one of our core values. We enter every community as guests and servants, not as outsiders who know best. We listen, we learn, and we serve in ways that honor the dignity and traditions of the people we work with.
What is traditional or green medicine in Peru?
Many communities in Peru have rich traditions of plant-based and natural healing practices passed down through generations. Known locally as medicina verde or green medicine, these practices use native plants, herbs, and natural remedies as alternatives or complements to conventional medicine. This knowledge is a vital part of community identity and healthcare.
How does the mission interact with traditional medicine practices?
We approach traditional medicine with deep respect and curiosity. Our volunteers are encouraged to learn about local healing practices and to work alongside them rather than against them. We believe that the best care comes from combining compassionate modern medicine with respect for what communities already know and trust.
Are there local healers or traditional practitioners in the communities you serve?
Yes. Many villages have traditional healers, known as curanderos, who play an important role in community health and wellbeing. We value these relationships and strive to collaborate respectfully wherever possible.
Will volunteers learn about Peruvian culture during the trip?
Yes. Cultural orientation is part of our pre-trip preparation. We want every volunteer to arrive informed, respectful, and ready to engage meaningfully with the communities we serve.
Still Have Questions?
We would love to hear from you. Reach out to us directly and a member of our team will be happy to help.