The Power of Connection: Volunteer Voices from Honduras

At Cape Cares, our mission is rooted in providing quality medical and dental care to communities in rural Honduras—but it's the human connections that leave the most lasting impact. Recently, several of our dedicated volunteers shared their experiences from recent brigades, revealing the depth of emotion, humility, and purpose that define these trips.

Upholding a Lifelong Commitment

For Lidia (Lily) Calloway, RDH, BS, FADHA, a dental hygienist and public health graduate student, volunteering with Cape Cares was more than just an opportunity to serve—it was a way to honor her professional oath. “Thank you Cape Cares for allowing me to uphold my oath abroad and continue to provide quality dental care to patients in need,” she said. The experience also brought back fond memories of her childhood in Mexico and opened new perspectives she plans to share with her fellow classmates.

A Thread of Humanity

Sarah Dunham described her experience in Honduras as “impossible to capture in words.” What stood out most was not one single moment, but a profound sense of shared humanity. “It was this raw power of empathy and respect going both ways that has made me forever grateful,” she shared. Her words echo a common sentiment among our volunteers: that healing and connection go hand in hand.

Moments That Stay With You

Volunteer Ruth Mares spoke of two powerful moments. One was the privilege of witnessing the entire clinic team—providers, community workers, and volunteers—working in harmony to serve patients. Another came during her time at the eyeglass station, where she helped a woman find the right pair of reading glasses. Despite a language barrier, they formed a bond that ended with a heartfelt hug. “I’ll remember that moment for the rest of my life,” Ruth said.

From Home Visits to Hikes—Care that Travels

For Karin P., RN, a home visit with Dr. Dave stood out as a highlight. “The family was so gracious and warm,” she recalled. Days later, while hiking far from the clinic, she encountered the patient’s son, who thanked her again and shared that his mother was doing well with her new medication regimen. “It was a memory I’ll never forget,” Karin said. “Volunteering with Cape Cares was so rewarding and organized from start to finish.”

These are the stories that drive our mission forward.

They remind us that compassionate care, even in the most remote places, creates ripples that reach far beyond clinic walls. We are deeply grateful to our volunteers who give their time, skills, and hearts to the people of Honduras—and we look forward to continuing this life-changing work together.

Interested in joining a brigade?

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