Welcome to HealthSpan International

About us
Welcome to HealthSpan International, a nonprofit development organization focusing on health care and medical education in developing countries. We are a worldwide organization of volunteers dedicated to working with talented colleagues in developing countries to build capacity and access to health care and education for all.

What HSI Believes
We believe our labors will count for nothing if we cannot look at our world through the eyes of our friends in developing countries. We are here to serve their needs, to help them realize their strengths, their potentials, their aspirations. We see a time when all people will have an equal chance to be healthy and educated. .

What HSI Does
We work together with people in all parts of the world to create practical solutions to real world problems in the fields of health care and education. In this way, we help people in developing countries improve their lives. Our purpose is the alleviation of global poverty and disease.
How we are different from other NGO models?

People in organizations in developing countries know what their problems are and they frequently have a good idea of what is needed to solve them. We collaborate to create innovative practical solutions, develop implementation plans, and help identify resources that are needed. If asked, we provide help with implementation and fund raising, but frequently this is not necessary. Our model builds confidence and self-sufficiency.

In contrast, NGOs are the go-betweens, linking donors in the developed world with recipients in developing countries. They frequently have their own agenda that, along with the donor’s money, is presented to the recipient as the solution to their problem. The recipient’s input is minimal. Their mantra is, “we have the money and we know what is best for you. Relax and let us do our job.” This approach is demeaning and breeds dependence.
Would you like to help?

We want to inspire folks looking to make a difference to work with us to improve health care and education in the developing world. We want people in developing countries that have problems to seek us out because they see an opportunity to solve problems their way­–instead of solutions imposed on them. Moreover, we want donors who are interested in empowering others.
Would you like to contact us?

Please go to our website at www.HealthSpanInternational.org

JK, 08/22/08