Monarch High School had the incredible opportunity to participate in a Global Health Squad in Panama from March 21 to March 28, 2024. Students and teachers arrived at the Tocumen International Airport, where they were greeted by our wonderful staff and were moved to the home-base located in the scenic, rural province of Cocle, near the city of Penonome. There, they received orientation about Panama and the wonderful volunteer week ahead.

During their Global Health Squad, the Monarch High School team worked hard to complete some amazing infrastructure projects that will improve health outcomes in the community. They installed hand washing stations, recreational equipment, and educational murals. In addition, volunteers assisted our medical professionals with patient intake, screenings, and provided public health workshops in WASH, dental hygiene, and nutrition.

After working on these impactful service projects, volunteers got the chance to enjoy some fun cultural activities to learn more about Panama and its people and history. Spanish lessons, baking traditional pastries and bread, bonfire night, traditional mola-painting taught by a member of the Guna indigenous group, soapstone carving lessons and a visit to Niko’s Beach were just a few of the activities experienced by Monarch students. 

The Monarch High School students also had the incredible opportunity to visit Monkey Island, experience a day at the Sloth Sanctuary at Gamboa, and explore the 350-year-old district of Casco Viejo, the Miraflores Locks, and the Panama Canal.

On the last day, the students took a moment to reflect on their experiences and integrate the impactful learnings of the trip. Their friends and family will be so excited to hear all about the incredible stories, friendships, and discoveries they made in Panama! 

Are you interested in an international service trip with Squads Abroad? We would love to hear from you! Contact us today and let us know how we can help you organize a Global Health Squad experience!