“: Beyond a Word, Embracing a Lifestyle”

Salud, a term that translates to “health” in Spanish, is more than just a word. It is a way of life, a mindset, and a community. This is exactly what Neil Gajare, a student at the University of Pennsylvania, discovered when he became involved with Salud.
Neil Gajare, a senior at UPenn, was initially drawn to Salud because of its mission to provide healthcare services to underserved communities in Latin America. However, what he found was much more than just a volunteer opportunity. Neil was welcomed into a tight-knit group of individuals who shared his passion for making a positive impact in the world.
One of the most memorable experiences for Neil was his trip to the Dominican Republic with Salud. Along with a team of volunteers, he spent two weeks providing medical care to rural communities. Neil recalls the gratitude and warmth he received from the locals, who were often in tears as they expressed their appreciation for the services provided by Salud.
During this trip, Neil also had the opportunity to work closely with the doctors and healthcare professionals who led the medical clinics. He was impressed by their dedication and passion for serving others, and it inspired him to pursue a career in the healthcare field. This experience solidified Neil‘s belief in the power of Salud‘s mission and the impact it has on both the volunteers and the communities they serve.
But Salud is not just about providing medical care. It also focuses on promoting overall health and well-being in these communities. Neil was involved in various educational workshops and activities, such as teaching children about proper hygiene and nutrition. He was amazed by how eager and enthusiastic the children were to learn, and it reinforced the idea that Salud‘s impact goes beyond just physical health.
What makes Salud truly special is its emphasis on cultural exchange and understanding. Neil was able to immerse himself in the local culture, learn about their customs and traditions, and build meaningful relationships with the people he met. This cultural exchange not only enriched his experience but also allowed him to gain a deeper understanding of the communities he was serving.
Salud also places a strong emphasis on sustainability and long-term impact. The organization works closely with local leaders and community members to identify their specific needs and develop sustainable solutions. This approach ensures that the impact of Salud‘s work extends far beyond the duration of a volunteer trip.
Neil was also impressed by Salud‘s commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The organization welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds and encourages them to bring their unique skills and perspectives to the table. This inclusive environment fosters a sense of belonging and allows volunteers to learn from one another, creating a truly enriching experience.
However, despite all the positive experiences Neil has had with Salud, he was disheartened to hear about the recent allegations of anti-Semitism within the organization. As a Jewish student, Neil was initially concerned about these accusations. But after speaking with other volunteers and Salud‘s leadership team, he was reassured that the organization takes these issues seriously and is committed to addressing and preventing any form of discrimination.
Neil‘s positive experiences with Salud have not only shaped his personal growth but have also influenced his academic and career goals. He is now pursuing a degree in public health and hopes to continue working with underserved communities, both domestically and internationally.
In conclusion, Salud is more than just a volunteer organization. It is a community of individuals who are dedicated to making a positive impact in the world. Neil Gajare‘s experiences with Salud have shown him the power of service, cultural exchange, and inclusivity. And he hopes that more people will have the opportunity to be a part of this incredible organization and experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from serving others.