The Inspire volunteer abroad program at Islamic Relief Canada provides a hands-on learning experience for volunteers both in the field and at home. Over the past 4 years, we have taken 34 cohorts to 9 different countries to learn from our teams and right-holders on the ground. This program allows volunteers to raise donations and awareness while serving communities locally and globally. Through this experience, IRC volunteers will engage directly with vulnerable community members in Kenya to better understand their circumstances and raise awareness. Support our volunteers and take part in this noble cause!

The funds raised will go towards Islamic Relief’s projects in Kenya. This specific project will focus on providing cataract surgeries to those suffering from vision impairments, empowering vulnerable individuals through improved access to healthcare. Additionally, funds raised will contribute to improving healthcare services and access to essential medical care for impoverished communities.

• $50 can cover basic medical supplies for cataract surgeries
• $150 can fund one cataract operation, giving someone the gift of sight
• $300 can provide two life-changing cataract surgeries

• $1,500 can sponsor 10 cataract operations, restoring sight to a community
  

During the field study, I will be part of the International Medical Team that will focus on conducting eye cataract operations, organizing health awareness programs, and distributing medical supplies as needed to vulnerable communities. Other community service activities include supporting local healthcare centers and providing care for patients in need. The international medical team plays a critical role in ensuring the success of the cataract surgery campaign in Kenya. The team is composed of surgeons, nurses, and technicians who work closely with local staff to deliver high-quality healthcare services.

• Surgeons are responsible for overseeing the setup of surgical theatres, calibrating equipment, performing surgeries, and mentoring local surgeons. They also provide post-operative care and monitor patient recovery to ensure the best outcomes.
• Nursing staff handle pre-operative preparation, assist during surgeries, and provide immediate post-operative care. They educate patients and their families on post-operative instructions and ensure follow-up appointments are scheduled.
• Technicians conduct pre-operative eye assessments, set up surgical equipment, and provide technical support during operations. They also train local staff on equipment maintenance to ensure sustainability.

This collaborative approach enhances the skills of local healthcare teams and ensures sustainable, high-quality care for patients long after the international medical team has departed.

Islamic Relief works with communities to strengthen their resilience to calamities, and we provide vital emergency aid when disasters occur.

We help the impoverished access basic services, including education, water and sanitation, as well as healthcare. We provide lasting routes out of poverty through our sustainable development schemes. Our integrated approach to progress is transforming communities worldwide.

We tackle the root causes of poverty and make sure that the world’s most vulnerable people have real influence in both our programs and advocacy.

Our key values, of compassion, justice, custodianship, sincerity and excellence – a critical part of our Islamic faith - inspire us each and every day to create positive change and remember the sanctity of life.

In line with Islamic teachings on the value of every human life, we provide assistance to whoever needs it most, regardless of race, religion or gender. We work to transform and save lives of people in crisis both Canada and across the world.