Your generous donation helps to save and change lives every day.
Your charitable investment will go toward ongoing global relief to care for the underserved and vulnerable people of this community. As a member of this medical mission team, you will elevate the long-term impact of sustainable, capacity-building efforts that improve the health, wellness, and quality of life of those most in need.
Overview
The Need
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a beautiful island nation in the Caribbean, faces significant healthcare challenges, particularly in its rural and remote communities. Access to medical services is limited, and the country struggles with a shortage of healthcare professionals, especially specialists. High rates of chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions are prevalent, while access to essential medical care and preventive services remains inconsistent. The recent volcanic eruptions have further strained the healthcare system, exacerbating respiratory issues and increasing the need for disaster response and recovery efforts. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, improving access to primary and specialized care, and enhancing health education and preventive services are critical to meeting the needs of this resilient but vulnerable population.
Our Work
With diligent planning and preparation, IMR is dedicated to ensuring that specific goals are met on our missions, each in correlation to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3, 6, and 17.
IMR works to elevate vulnerable populations through shoulder-to-shoulder care with our local partners, creating workforce density, and a cadre of future healthcare and public health leaders in association to UNSDG 3: Good Health & Wellbeing.
Our medical mission teams also work toward UNSDG 6: Clean Water & Sanitation by supporting and strengthening the participation of local communities in improving their water quality, and installing water filtration systems that supply communities with clean drinking water and providing education on hydration and hygiene.
In correlation with UNSDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, our organization works in collaboration and at the request of local hosts where we are under their direct influence and affluence. IMR never goes into a country without a formal invitation where there is a great community need for medical or dental care, and health education.
This Mission
Clinic will take place in the remote island communities of Union Island where up to 90% of buildings were damaged or destroyed in the wake of Hurricane Beryl. Our team will provide medical expertise, specializing in optometry, dentistry, health, and hygiene education to hundreds of local men, women, and children. The communities within these remote islands have a population of over 3,000 people, some villages only being accessible via boat are amongst the poorest islands in the Caribbean.
The Grenadine Island chain consists of 35 small islands and is located in the Caribbean Sea. These islands are situated 120 miles southwest of Barbados and 150 miles south of Trinidad. The island chain was hit hard by Hurricane Beryl in early July. The hospital on Union Island was severely damaged; the medical staff was forced to treat patients in the lobby area or out on the street.
On this relief trip, you will fly into Argyle International Airport on St. Vincent. Upon arrival, you will ferry over to Union Island to meet your team.
Lodging/Transportation
During your stay in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, you will enjoy safe and comfortable accommodations that reflect the island’s warm hospitality. Our selected lodging options are clean, well-maintained, and conveniently located, ensuring you have a restful and enjoyable experience.
Transportation on the island is reliable and secure, with professional drivers who are knowledgeable about the local area. Whether traveling to clinic sites, community outreach programs, or exploring the beautiful surroundings during your free time, you can be assured of safe and comfortable travel arrangements throughout your stay. Every detail has been carefully arranged to ensure your comfort and safety, allowing you to focus on the important work you’ll be doing in this beautiful island nation.
Highlights
In addition to providing care to the warm and welcoming people of St. Vincent and Union Island, visitors have the opportunity to explore a variety of captivating attractions in this stunning Caribbean paradise. Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Tobago Cays Marine Park, where crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs create an ideal setting for snorkeling, diving, and sailing. Hike through lush tropical rainforests to the summit of La Soufrière volcano, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island’s natural wonders.
Explore the charming capital city of Kingstown, with its historic architecture, bustling markets, and the beautiful St. George’s Cathedral. For a more laid-back experience, unwind on the pristine beaches of Bequia or enjoy a scenic boat tour around the picturesque Grenadine islands. From the tranquil waters of Salt Whistle Bay to the stunning views at Fort Duvernette, there’s no shortage of scenic spots to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, St. Vincent and the Grenadines offer an array of attractions that make it an unforgettable destination.
Extend Your Stay
Extend your stay and experience the enchanting beauty of the Grenadines or Canouan, two idyllic destinations that promise to enrich your visit to St. Vincent. A trip to the Grenadines unveils a series of breathtaking islands and cays, each with its own unique charm. Explore the pristine beaches and turquoise waters of Mayreau, snorkel among the vibrant coral reefs of the Tobago Cays, or enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Bequia, known for its friendly locals and vibrant culture. For those seeking a more exclusive retreat, Canouan offers luxurious accommodations, world-class golf courses, and some of the most stunning coastal views in the Caribbean. Whether you’re looking to relax on secluded beaches, dive into crystal-clear waters, or experience the rich local culture, extending your stay to visit these beautiful islands will be an unforgettable addition to your time in this tropical paradise.
Itinerary at a Glance
Arrivals
Team Orientation & Training Day
Clinic
Clinic
Clinic
Clinic
Departures
Please View Full Itinerary in the Next Tab
Full Itinerary
This itinerary is subject to change without notice.
You will need to arrange your flight destination to be Argyle International Airport on St. Vincent. If you need assistance booking flights, please contact Worldwide Navigators, our preferred travel agency, at travel@worldwidenavigators.com. You may also choose to arrange transportation from the airport to your accommodation, which you may purchase from within your portal under Trip Add-Ons.
Arrivals
You and the team will fly into Argyle International Airport. You need to arrive by noon in order to catch the ferry with the team to Union Island.
Meals: Dinner,
Team Orientation & Training Day
Once you have socialized and dined with your team during breakfast, your team leader will dive right into orientation. During orientation, your leader will assign roles for the clinic, present IMR’s clinic protocols, and provide an overview of the many communities your team will serve. This medical mission will be unique because unlike other IMR trips, your team will visit multiple islands during your clinic days.
You and your team will provide training for local healthcare providers to continue IMR’s long-term, sustainable education efforts. Education is as important as medical and dental care for our patients. Each clinic includes basic health education according to the specialties and skills of the IMR volunteers, as well as the needs of the local people. When communities become empowered to take health and wellness issues into their own hands, they become self-sufficient. IMR provides learning opportunities for the local communities through classes and hands-on learning to sustain their well-being beyond our visit.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Clinic
Once you have indulged in a hearty breakfast at the community longhouse, you will meet with the other volunteers assigned to your clinic. This clinic day will remain on Union Island. Clinic begins early in the morning and runs into the evening. Your day will be long and hard, but also incredibly rewarding.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Clinic
Starting early in the morning, you and your team will spend a second clinic day on Union Island. You will return to lodging late in the evening after serving another gratifying day.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Clinic
This clinic day will be spent on the neighboring island of Mayreau. After breakfast with the team, you will travel by boat to the island, returning to Union Island in the evening for dinner, debriefs, and relaxing.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Clinic
Your last clinic day will also be spent on Mayreau Island. After a final rewarding day you will return to Union Island for team dinner and free time.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Departures
This is the last day of your remarkable trip to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Get ready to catch the ferry back to St. Vincent for your international departure.
Extensions
You have given your time and energy to the communities within the islands of the Grenadines. Now take a moment to yourself. Continue your experience of a lifetime in the Caribbean, and explore, relax, adventure, and reflect amongst the turquoise waters. Join International Medical Relief on an exclusive trip extension provided by our partner, Worldwide Navigators! To learn more about this unique opportunity, call us at (970) 635-0110 or send us an email at office@imrus.org.
Minimum Donation
Your generous donation of $2200 will go toward the ongoing global relief to care for the underserved and vulnerable people of this community. As a member of this medical mission team, you will elevate the long-term impact of sustainable, capacity-building efforts that improve the health, wellness, and quality of life of those most in need. A small portion of your donation includes:
- Clinic supplies and medications for patients
- Clinic participation
- Transportation, accommodations, and meals as outlined in the itinerary
Donation Payment Deadlines
$2000 due by April 14, 2025
$2200 due by June 15, 2025
Early Bird Savings Opportunity
To be eligible, the participant must upload ALL your required documents and forms, sign their liability form and make your 50% donation including your $35 application fee by April 14, 2025. This savings opportunity does not apply to disaster relief missions.
Featured Enhancements
**To purchase any of the above Featured Enhancements for your mission, please contact our office at office@imrus.org or call at (970) 635-0110.
Your Donation to IMR for Your Mission Cost Includes:
All group costs from the time you arrive at the team meeting point in country until you separate from the team or when the team arrives at the departure airport, including:
- Transportation
- Lodging (except for Colorado missions, disaster missions, or as otherwise mentioned in the trip itinerary)
- Costs associated with the clinic
- Food
- Tips for services provided to the IMR team
- All logistics, including translation services and security as needed
Additional Costs That You Are Responsible For:
All group costs from the time you arrive at the team meeting point in country until you separate from the team or when the team arrives at the departure airport, including:
- International and Domestic flights to the country.
- Passport fees, visa fees, and transit fees, including baggage or overnight accommodations/meals while in transit
- Required or recommended insurance
- Vaccinations and medications common for travel
- Spending money for souvenirs and personal purchases
- Required or desired mission supplies, personal equipment, or small gifts for the special people you meet
- Any lodging, meals, and transportation outside of the scheduled team mission, payable at the time of service to the local vendor
- COVID-related fees such as testing, vaccinations, and quarantines as required by in-country arrival/departure or USA arrival/departure
- Each team member is responsible for carrying medical supplies for the deployment. All fees associated with transport are the responsibility of the volunteer.