Sample projects
Child Development Centers
IFS is in it for the long haul. And what better project to invest in than developing a child! Approximately 50% of children in rural areas have no opportunity to progress past an elementary education, forcing them into a perpetual cycle of poverty. IFS works with indigenous helpers to find qualified local teachers, then sends U.S. and local training teams for support, training, and encouragement.
FAMILY AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK PROJECTS
IFS invests in families. Many families become disrupted when fathers must travel to larger cities for work, returning home for only a few days each month. These fathers can easily build home farms and livestock projects, however, if given proper education and tools. IFS often comes alongside a community farm project, teaching agricultural methods appropriate to the local clime, and enriching entire communities by increasing local trade and fellowship.
Water Project
Water projects are needed everywhere! Most village water supplies come from neighboring rivers, where cooking, bathing, and latrines are used side by side, causing chronic sickness and poor health. There are many types of water treatment systems, and most are quite affordable for the community. But in order to make a long-term difference, the project must match what the community is able and willing to maintain. These conversations take time, and are not always easy, as community leaders may not always be in sync. In these incidences, the preservation of community cohesiveness and dignity of all parties is essential.
Using translators and local helpers, IFS takes the time to develop trust-relationships with the community and its leaders, ensuring that their leadership is respected during each phase of decision and implementation.
Medical Projects
Medical Teams are a mainstay of IFS service. We have partnered with doctors and nurses from all over the U.S., sending out more than 700 volunteers around the world. We also partner with an equal number of indigenous healthcare workers and volunteers within the project area. Whatever your field, whether doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, dentist, dental student, physical or occupational therapist, etc., we can place you in a setting where your skills will be applied to their compassionate best.
For every medically trained team member, we also need 2 non-medical volunteers. Can you count medicines or give a child a worm pill? Then you’re qualified. Come join an outgoing team!
Our Vision is Realistic
By building on our past successes and establishing strategic priorities, we will have the foundation to become stronger and more efficient than ever.
HELP BY DONATING TODAY
At International Friendship Summit, we are working to create hope and the opportunity for a better world. But we can only do it with your help. Join us in our mission and donate now.