My Nonprofit Reviews

What do I think of when I think of the non-profit group, Shared Beat? I think of caring, loving volunteers giving up a week of their summer to help communities in Guatemala, both rural and urban, that are coping with poverty and lack of medical resources. I think of the hardworking, diligent and persistent board members who have kept this wonderful organization alive for over 10 years. I think of the grateful patients and warm words of “muchas gracias!” coming from the people served, both young and old, over the years. I have many years of memories, having been on about 10 trips over the last 10 years as a pediatrician. The service week is extremely rewarding personally, and also gives me a chance to see my three “sponsored” children in Guatemala City and my best friend who comes as an interpreter. Whatever team we have in a given year works well together, under Jenny’s excellent leadership. The sense of camaraderie is wonderful, with all working toward a common goal of examining all of the patients who have presented themselves for our care. We are a mix of younger high school and college students and older, sometimes retired, clinicians who all give of their talents in the ways in which they can. I hope the important work of Shared Beat can continue on, for ten or more years in the future!