MINGA HOUSE FOUNDATION
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ONLINE APPLICATION
MUNICIPAL ELDERLY WELLNESS CENTER & MEDICAL CLINIC
​Senior
Got Questions?  [email protected]
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Seniors Wellbeing

​Service Term:  30 days min required - 20 hrs/week required (Individual volunteer)
University Teams may request 7-14 day itineraries
Spanish Skills Required: Beginner
Experience Required:  Students and/or Professionals may apply
This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience while learning from dedicated staff in a supportive, real-world setting. The shelter provides care for 10-14 elderly residents and operates a free medical clinic staffed by visiting Colombian nurses and doctors. In addition to supporting the shelter’s residents, the clinic also serves homeless individuals and Venezuelan refugees in need.

For anyone interested in health professions or social work, this opportunity offers invaluable exposure to a wide range of real-world challenges and the chance to make a meaningful impact. As a volunteer, you will work closely with medical and social work professionals, contributing to the care and well-being of the community.
​

While volunteering, you may also visit other local and regional organizations, including retirement homes, youth shelters, a childcare center for children of sex workers, public schools, community club sports, and a dog shelter, for an even more diverse and enriching experience.
How to Join the CNA Instructor Program:
We’ve made the application process simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to start your journey with Minga House:
  1. Complete the Online Application
    Begin by filling out our online application form. This will help us learn more about your background, experience, and interests.
  2. Receive Program Information
    After submitting your application, we’ll send you detailed information about the program, including what to expect, what to prepare for, and how you can make the most of your experience.
  3. Schedule a Video Conference
    Next, you’ll schedule a video call with our team. During this meeting, we’ll discuss your goals, answer any questions, and finalize any specific requirements for your participation.
  4. Complete Payment
    Once you’re ready to confirm your spot, you’ll receive a PayPal link to securely complete the payment for the program.
  5. Receive Your Planning Guide & Invitation Letter
    After payment, we’ll send you a comprehensive planning guide along with additional information to help you prepare for your arrival. This guide includes everything you’ll need to know—from packing tips to local transportation and cultural insights. We’ll also send your official invitation letter, which is essential for your visa and travel preparations.
  6. Get Ready for Your Adventure!
    With all the logistics taken care of, you’re all set to begin this exciting journey. The community is ready to welcome you, and we’re here to ensure you have a meaningful, impactful, and memorable experience!
The main purpose of the SENDEROS DE OMAIRA FOUNDATION is to house temporarily (day care) or permanently in its facilities an undetermined number of older adults, for their comprehensive care, maintenance and personal development.
DOWNLOAD MORE INFO
ONLINE APPLICATION

HOMELESS SHELTER FOR THE ELDERLY - TESTIMONIALS

Thelma Navarro, Mexico-USA
San Diego State University - Health Policy - Grad Student
UCLA - Sociology & Global Health, B.A.
"I think students and professionals should come to help out. Don Ramiro is one of the most inspirational people I have ever met!"

Maya Loventhal, California, United States
Spanish B.A., next stop is Medical School!
"I recently had the opportunity to travel down to Colombia to observe ad ride along in the ambulance which was AMAZING!  I feel like I learned a lot and got the opportunity to see the behind the scenes of medicine that I really wouldn't have had the opportunity to see at home. I also got to participate in Search and Rescue training.  I would recommend that you do night shifts so you could see what it's like to wake up at 3.a.m..for a medical emergency. This experience is going to be very useful when I go to medical school. I am very grateful for this experience!"

Alexandra Portlock, England
Professional Trainer, Health Education, M.A.
"I am from England,  where I work as a personal trainer and health specialist. So my experience in the fire station gave me a good view of the healthcare system in Colombia.  The firemen and paramedics in Chinchina are very professional. Committed and organised, they provide the adequate attention to each patient. I learnt a lot, as the team are always happy to share their explain the how and why of each decision taken. Not only I got to watch interventions, but also I got to try out one of their practice exercises! For sure I recommend the experience."

ONLINE APPLICATION
Program Cost:  $45/day (USD) - Housing included at Minga House!
Discount offered if stay is longer than 30 days or if you share lodging.

Refund Policy:

There is no refund for the first 30 days of programming. 
Why?  Because much unrecoverable staff time & effort is invested prior to your arrival to plan your programming.
 
 


Additional Expenses - USD
  • Food:  $5-15/day regardless if you eat out daily or prepare your own food in our shared kitchen, depending on your diet.
  • Airport Pick-up & Drop-Off:  $40-42 paid directly to the taxi. (we connect you to approved drivers) 45 min ride to Chinchina. ​
  • Medical Insurance: Not required, but highly recommended while traveling abroad.  MHF is not responsible for your care.
  • Optional - Recreational & Cultural Excursions vary from Free to $100 USD each, most are inexpensive! See Self-Guided Tours
  • Optional - Personal Interpreter or Aide: $10-30/day - see college students available for contract at bottom of Team page

Volunteering & Internships Catalogue
Online Spanish Level Test - Free​

Trip Planning Guide
​Fundraising Tools
Travel Medical Insurance
Coffee Region - Travel Guides
FAQ
Minga House Foundation's facilities are 100% NON-SMOKING and 100% NO ILLEGAL DRUGS
ONLINE APPLICATION
More Volunteering Opportunities

Reviews

We love the concept of Minga House Foundation!  
Travel with a purpose! Colombia's Coffee Region is one of the most beautiful places on Earth; and Colombia is the 2nd most bio-diverse country in the world, next to Brazil. I love Colombia,
​my year-round Spring weather paradise."

Contact Us

Minga House Foundation
Carrera 9 #11-34
​Chinchina, Caldas, Colombia 176020
[email protected]

Email Us
  • MINGA
    • Policy
  • Volunteers
    • Community Health
    • Emergency Medicine
    • Sports and Fitness
    • Animal Rescue
    • English Teacher >
      • Chinchina Bilingue >
        • Debate Competition
        • English Conversation Group
        • English Songs Festival
        • Spelling Bee
    • Children
    • Youth
    • Seniors >
      • Senderos de Omaira Foundation
    • Construction
    • NonProfit Management
  • Students
    • U.S. Veterans
    • Graduate Field Courses
  • Teachers
    • Teach USA >
      • TeachUSA TESTIMONIALS
      • Educación Especial Bilingüe
    • Teach Colombia >
      • Free Teacher Onboarding
  • Families
  • Our Team
    • Facilities >
      • Glen Galindo
      • Employment Opportunities
    • Testimonials
    • Work with MINGA
  • Store
  • Donate