MINGA HOUSE FOUNDATION
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ONLINE APPLICATION
EMERGENCY MEDICINE - EMT/PARAMEDICS
Fire Department - Ambulance Services
Got Questions?  [email protected]
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Emergency Medicine

​Service Term:  15 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
Join us for an unforgettable opportunity to train alongside Colombian first responders in the fields of medicine and firefighting. This immersive experience is designed for individuals passionate about health professions, offering the chance to share your expertise while learning from the local community.
As part of the program, you may also visit and collaborate with various health-related organizations, including retirement homes, youth shelters, childcare centers for children of sex workers, public school physical education programs, community sports clubs, and a dog rescue haven.

Work Schedule:
Typically, participants will work a 4-day week, leaving you with 3-day weekends to explore other volunteering opportunities or experience the breathtaking beauty of Colombia’s Coffee Region. From cultural immersion to community engagement, this program promises both professional enrichment and personal adventure.

Why Join Us?
  • Hands-on training and collaboration with local experts.
  • Opportunities to make a direct impact on the community.
  • A deeply immersive cultural experience.
  • Free time to explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of the Coffee Region.
How to Join the EMT 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 EMT 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!
Download more info
ONLINE APPICATION

EMS AMBULANCE - TESTIMONIALS

(2018)
(2023)
Francisco Bermudez, Puerto Rico
Medical Student
"I had the opportunity to volunteer with Chinchina Paramedics. As an aspiring physician I love a challenge and I love to learn new things. Boy was I not disappointed.  Talk about an adrenaline rush when you hear the sirens and you have to go attend a medical emergency. It was a complete thrill. I highly recommend participating with the first responders. They are fantastic & great teachers and lots of fun!"

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 >
      • Employment Opportunities
    • Testimonials
    • Work with MINGA
  • Store
  • Donate