"To unite premedical students wishing to serve others
and to gain
medical experience with those abroad in need of medical aid"
The Fellowship for International Service and Health (FISH) is a student-run, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization designed to provide international medical services to those in need. Originated at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), FISH works to connect students with a passion for helping others with the people who most need their help. FISH is an organization which allows passionate students the unique opportunity to learn basic medical screening, to work alongside healthcare professionals (such as doctors, dentists, pharmacists, optometrists, and surgeons), and to gain meaningful experiences in global health and public service.
Throughout the world, there are many countries that are in desperate need of medical care and lack even the most basic necessities to live, such as clean water or electricity. Instead of sending money or writing letters, FISH takes a hands-on approach to address these issues. Associates of FISH travel to countries such as Mexico, Honduras, Romania, and the Philippines to run medical brigades and outreaches, assist healthcare professionals, conduct public health surveys and other critical services. With each new associate comes the innovative ideas, fresh enthusiasm, and enormous effort that are responsible for the constant expansion of the scope of our services in other countries.
FISH was founded by students interested in incorporating their interest Christ's mission and promoting positive health but has never discriminated against any religious view. Our organization is laced with Christian heritage but members are not required to be Christian, this includes all leadership positions. In fact, FISH has grown to include over 70 students a year from a variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds, united by the passion to drive positive change in the world.