In 2025, Global Medical Brigades proudly celebrates 20 years of impact. What started two decades ago with a single Medical Brigade in Honduras has grown into the world’s largest student-led global health and sustainable development movement, with more than 94,000 volunteers who have worked hand in hand with local professionals and partner communities across three continents.
Together, we’ve empowered over 1 million people with better healthcare, clean water, sanitation, financial tools, and educational opportunities, creating ripple effects that will last for generations.
A Journey of Impact
In just two decades, we have:- Mobilized 95K+ volunteers
- Treated 1.5M+ patients through Medical and Dental Brigades
- Built 829 Community Partnerships in 6 countries
- Established 466 University Chapters across the US, Canada & Europe
- Partnered with UNDP, World Bank, and UNICEF to amplify our reach
Community partners collaborate with volunteers and staff to work on program sustainability
Beyond Medical Care
Our Brigades don’t just respond to needs, they address the root causes of health and economic inequality. Alongside Medical Brigades, we also lead:
- Public Health Brigades — Building latrines, eco-stoves, and sanitation systems
- Water Brigades — Providing clean water and hygiene infrastructure
- Dental Brigades — Delivering preventative and restorative oral care
Volunteers participate in the holistic model to meet a community’s health and economic goals.
Innovating for Sustainable Change
We’ve grown our mission through programs and initiatives that take our holistic model even further:
- Kambia — Faculty-led academic programs abroad with real-world impact
- Squads Abroad — High school service programs advancing health, STEM, business, and education
- Eskala — Community-led microfinance initiatives growing entrepreneurship and opportunity
- Montemar — Affordable, sustainable housing that strengthens community well-being
Each is a step toward a world where communities thrive long after volunteers return home.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this milestone, we’re committed to:- Expanding year-round medical care
- Increasing clean water and sanitation projects
- Investing in education, leadership, and economic empowerment
- Strengthening evaluation to ensure lasting outcomes
- Advancing carbon neutrality
A Call to Action
“For two decades, Global Brigades has been driven by the passion of volunteers committed to sustainable change, tackling health, education, business, and economic challenges from multiple angles. Our 20th anniversary is more than a milestone; it’s a celebration of all we've accomplished together, and a call to action for the work still ahead.”
— Dr. Shital Vora, Co-Founder, Global Brigades
Dr. Shital Vora on Brigade with her alma mater, Marquette University, back in 2018
From a single Honduran community to a global network across Central America, Ghana, and migrant and refugee communities in Greece, Global Brigades has become a movement powered by students, alumni, professionals, and local leaders, united in the belief that access to healthcare and opportunity is a human right.
Together, we’ve empowered 1 million people. The next million starts now.
