Masatepe is a community of roughly 40,000 people located in the Central Pacific region of Nicaragua and is approximately one hour south of the capital city, Managua. The community of Masatepe is said to be split 50/50 amongst urban and rural populations. The rural segment of the economy consists mainly of subsistence and small-scale farming, whereas the urban center consists more of micro-enterprises in the areas of carpentry and artisanal products. What Masatepe might lack financially, it makes up with its people, culture and resources!
Nicaragua is the second poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Unemployment rate is high throughout the country, and Masatepe’s unemployment rate is just below the average. Poverty is widespread, especially in the more rural areas. The vast majority of the population here in Masatepe professes Catholicism or Evangelical Christianity. Yet, we believe the holistic Gospel includes much more than what has been experienced here so far. We believe that the Jesus of the Bible cares about the poor and oppressed; in Masatepe there is still a long way to go to see holistic transformation within the community.
Given the many challenges the people of Masatepe face, both economically speaking as well as in opportunity, we know the solution must be an innovative one. That’s why we’ve chosen an entrepreneurial and ministerial approach towards Integrated Community Transformation (ICT). ICT is a fancy way of saying that we want to model our ministry after Jesus' life on Earth, and care for the physical, spiritual, and emotional needs here in Masatepe. We believe that addressing all three of these needs is the only way to fully emulate Christ in our ministry.
This applicant would work alongside a local city health center to help promote better health care practices, as well as working with Medical Mission teams to bring supplies and train to local medical professionals. Goers will volunteer with local hospitals and health centers, help develop new partnerships in the community, and assist the Short-Term Medical Missions teams.
Be a mature believer and follower of Jesus Christ
Passion for community development and a heart for the oppressed
Experience in hospitals, health centers, rehab centers, or assisted living
Nursing Degree, CNA, or healthcare background
Be able to work well with others (Ability to work alongside and not over)
Be teachable
Be flexible and adaptable
Hold the ministry philosophy that we are to come alongside, teach, equip local nationals (so that our developmental work does not create permanent dependence on a foreign presence)
Fluent in Spanish OR commitment to language proficiency
Optional:
Experience in Physical and Speech Therapy
Experience with Medical Missions
Knowledge of a socialistic health system