During a mobile clinic in Minas 2000, a low-income community in Lima, Peru, MEDLIFE encountered a woman named Chais. She had arrived at the clinic in pain after recently giving birth prematurely. Her premature labor was caused by a fall on a steep, rocky path while walking to her home.
After hearing her story, Dr. Nick Ellis, MEDLIFE’s founder, visited Chais’ home alongside volunteers and staff. They found a hazardous hillside where the lack of a stable pathway put the entire community at risk, especially during Lima’s humid winters. For individuals like Chais—pregnant women, the elderly, and children—this dangerous terrain was a constant threat.
Dr. Ellis realized that providing medical care wasn’t enough to address the root causes of Chais’ health challenges. The treacherous path was more than an inconvenience; it was a major health hazard for the community. MEDLIFE’s solution was to construct a staircase—its first-ever volunteer construction project.
This initiative was not just about building safe pathways; it was a broader effort to address systemic issues in low-income communities. The staircase improved safety for residents, reducing the risk of falls and accidents. But it also achieved much more:
This first staircase construction project became the model for future MEDLIFE initiatives. It underscored the value of addressing structural barriers to health and safety, making volunteer opportunities abroad more impactful.
By participating in volunteer construction projects like these, you can:
If Chais’ story inspires you, consider joining one of MEDLIFE’s volunteer opportunities abroad. Whether you’re interested in infrastructure projects, healthcare, or education, you’ll be part of meaningful work that empowers low-income communities and creates sustainable change.
Download the Safe Homes Movement Brochure Here to learn more about joining a volunteer construction project and making a lasting impact.