Our volunteer eye care programs are perfect for ophthalmologists, (or those still in training), nurses, doctors or any other persons with a medical background and an interest in traveling abroad to volunteer their time and services. The optometry volunteer abroad projects we provide will give you the chance to help the less fortunate in Jamaica to receive free eye care, support and advice.
Overview
Optometry Volunteer Abroad
Oftentimes Jamaicans are unable to afford the necessary eye exams and treatment needed to care for their eyes, and as a result, volunteers are needed to lend their skills and experience to local clinics and eye doctors.
By joining our volunteer eye care programs you can go out into local communities to put on free eye exams, and also have a chance to work in local eye clinics/doctor offices and work with experienced ophthalmologists to diagnose and treat patients. Eye care volunteer opportunities in Jamaica will award you with a priceless learning experience, as well as the chance to test and hone your skills in real-world situations.
Why should you join optometry volunteer abroad projects?
Optometry volunteer opportunities abroad, such as those in Jamaica, offer more than just a change of scenery and stress relief; they provide a chance for adventure and genuine connections. Unlike the predictable experiences at tourist destinations, volunteering opens doors to unexpected and enriching encounters.
Here’s why you should consider an optometry volunteer program abroad:
- Challenge Yourself: Embark on a volunteer eye care project in Jamaica, an unfamiliar territory for you where you will help others while discovering yourself.
- Meaningful Engagement: Engage authentically with local communities and forge lasting friendships.
- Personal Growth: Discover new passions, strengths, weaknesses, or even a new life purpose.
- Learning and Development: Learn from your experiences to emerge as a clearer-eyed student/eye care professional and more effective contributor to global well-being.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience the vibrant Jamaican culture with our interactive culture and Patois lessons, and over 60 tours and adventures, including visits to museums and indigenous communities.
- Versatile Experiences: Enjoy a balanced mix of volunteering, fun, and sightseeing, ensuring a holistic and memorable experience.
Your Rewards for completing the volunteer eye care project
- Make an impact on a rewarding optometrist volunteer experience abroad
- Up to 40 volunteer hours each week
- Eye care volunteer certificate
- Jamaican culture certificate
- Patois (local dialect) language certificate
- Travel Safety & Security certificate
- 10% off all tours & adventures
Photos
Details
What Qualifications or Experience do I need to join volunteer eye care program?
You do not need prior experience to join our eye volunteer programs, however, if you wish for more advanced placements where you will be doing medical work, such as eye exams, using medical machinery or other tasks you need qualifications and experience.
Ophthalmologists and eye care professionals will need to provide such qualifications during application to secure advanced placements.
Ideal Volunteers
- Ophthalmologists
- Eye care professionals
- University students looking to major in eye care
- Teens and young adults who would like to explore the eye care field
- Couples and families, with at least 1 member qualified to do eye care work
- Corporate groups
- Business owners
- Mature volunteers
- Professionals
- High school and university groups
Planning Your volunteer eye care Project Activities
We encourage all volunteers to pre-plan for their optometry volunteer abroad projects. This ensures you will make the biggest impact during your project. When you are accepted to join the project, we will advise and assist you with brainstorming about the activities you wish to do during your project. We can also schedule a meeting with you to go over the activities you have planned.
What can you do during your eye care volunteer opportunities:
- Embark on community outreach programs to provide eye care, test visual acuity, distribute eye care educational material and educate the public on caring for the eyes
- Volunteer in local ophthalmologist’s office to shadow experts and observe surgeries, assist with patient care, and record patient history
- Assist with diagnosing patients, distributing glasses and medication prescribed by the ophthalmologists/optometrists
- Visit local schools, orphanages, clinics, and other organizations to educate locals on proper eye care
- Do a fundraising campaign back home to raise cash and kind to donate to the eye care facility or clinic where you will be volunteering
These are just some examples. Feel free to discuss any other activities you would like to engage in during your project.
What will your first day be like?
The first day of your volunteer eye care project will see you visiting your volunteer site accompanied by your Project Advisor. You will get a tour of the property, get introduced to your team members, receive a brief project orientation and learn where to get lunch.
How will I spend Afternoon And Weekends?
On some afternoons and weekends when you do not have any volunteer work planned, you can purchase a tour and adventure package to have some fun during your ophthalmology volunteer abroad project.
What happens after Project Completion?
After your eye care project is completed, we will award you with your Volunteer Certificate, signed by our Managing Director. If you have any documents that verify your volunteer or service hours, we will be happy to sign those as well.
Do I need any Resources For Volunteer Eyecare Projects?
We strongly encourage all volunteers joining our volunteer eye clinic programs to do some form of fundraising back home to gather resources that can be donated to your project. These include glasses frames, eye drops, reading glasses, contact lenses etc.
We will send you a list of needed resources for your volunteer site.
Recommended To Take With You
- Money to purchase lunch ($3 – $5 USD per day)
- Insect repellent to prevent mosquito and bug bites
- Supplies to assist with your project
- A camera to take pictures
- Sunscreen if you intend to play in the sun or sunbathe
- A reusable water bottle
- Comfortable shoes
- Notebook or electronic device to take notes
- Cash for any shopping or excursions
- Water shoes if you plan on swimming
Pricing & Requirements
Jamaica Optometry Volunteer Abroad Packages
Tuition for our eye care program
*All fees listed below are in USD and priced Per Person
Enrollment Fees
| Project Format | Enrollment Fee |
|---|---|
| Placement Only Enrollment Fee | $349 |
| Full Project Enrollment fee | $200 |
Full Project Tuition
| Project Duration | Tuition |
|---|---|
| 1 Week | $999 |
| 2 Weeks | $1,499 |
| 3 Weeks | $1,999 |
| 4 Weeks | $2,499 |
| Extra Weeks | $500 |
Tour & Adventure Packages
| Tour Packages | Cost |
|---|---|
| Ocho Rios Adventure & Kingston Highlights | $300 |
| Portland Escapade & Blue Mountain Trek | $300 |
Tour add-ons are done on weekends and include multiple attractions and all entrance fees
- Guaranteed placement within an organization in Jamaica where you will volunteer or intern
- Do meaningful volunteer or work activities within your program
- Enrollment in our Jamaican culture course for a thorough lesson on the different aspects of the Jamaican way of life
- Receive lessons in Jamaican Patois, our island’s native and somewhat popular dialect
- Jamaican safety and security course
- A dedicated Project Advisor who will check in with you during your project to ensure you are on track and to solve any issues that may arise
- Receive a volunteer/internship certificate at the end of your project
- Complete up to 40 hours of volunteer hours or internship hours per week during your project
- Develop your critical thinking skills as you solve daily problems as they arise
Here are some of the highlights of the Full Optometry Mission Trips:
- Dorm accommodation at Barnett’s Homestay
- Air-conditioned room, WiFi, cable television, and more
- Receive full breakfast and dinner each day
- Transportation to and from your volunteer project daily
- Airport pick-up and drop-off at the beginning and end of your project
- Welcome kit with your itinerary, emergency contact info, brochures and other surprises
- Receive pre-arrival support with planning your project
- Meet other volunteers, interns or students from around the world who may join during your stay
- 24-hour support while in Jamaica
Barnett’s Homestay – Jamaican Homebase
Our primary accommodation is Barnett’s Homestay, located in the quiet community of Portmore, St. Catherine. You will stay with Jomo Barnett, the Director of Jamaica International Projects, and his family during your project. This is your chance to live with a Jamaican family and learn our culture.
Amenities at Barnett’s Homestay include:
- Shared dorm room with air conditioning and spacious beds
- Breakfast and dinner each day
- Eat authentic and delicious Jamaican meals, or request meals for special diets
- Private room available upon request
- WiFi
- Rooms and common areas cleaned daily
- Clean towels, wash rags, blankets and bed linen provided
- Live with a local family and learn our culture
- Cable television
- Work area
- Games and activities planned each night
What are the requirements for our ophthalmology mission trips?
What do you need to join the ranks of vision aid overseas volunteers? The minimum age to enroll alone is 16 years old. Volunteers under 16 looking to join this project must be accompanied by an adult.
Once you have applied and paid your enrollment fee and project tuition, there are a few documents we’ll ask you to share with us.
- 2 Reference letters (1 personal, 1 professional)
- 1 recent photo ID (passport, national ID, school ID, or driver’s license)
- Proof of travel insurance (if you do not have insurance you can purchase it here)
- Flight itinerary
- Completed eye care volunteer abroad project application
- Proof of qualifications if you have any
Email these to your Project Advisor during the enrollment process, or you can submit them during your application.
How do our eye care volunteer projects work?
Optometry volunteer opportunities, such as those offered by Jamaica International Projects, are designed for a mature audience seeking meaningful eye care volunteering experiences.
Here’s what to expect:
- Comprehensive Support: From arrival to departure, receive full support to maximize your strengths and gain valuable experiences.
- Orientation: Begin with an orientation session to understand local culture and project expectations, ensuring a smooth start.
- Peer Interaction: Connect with like-minded volunteers, fostering potential lifelong friendships.
- Daily Debriefs: Engage in daily discussions with your Project Advisor to address concerns and share experiences about your ophthalmology volunteer opportunities.
- Safety and Security: Benefit from the presence of a first-aid certified Program Advisor, security-equipped homestays, and consistent support throughout your stay.
- Comfortable Accommodations: Stay in homestays with amenities like free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and daily cleaning. Private rooms available for families and couples at an additional cost.
- Cultural Immersion: Live with a local Jamaican family for a genuine cultural experience, treated as a family member rather than just a guest.
- Inclusive Meals: Enjoy included breakfast and dinner with accommodations for special dietary needs (e.g., gluten-free, vegan, diabetic).
- Leisure Activities: Participate in organized evening activities and weekend outings, including cultural tours and local dining experiences.
- Transportation Provided: All transportation for activities and projects is included, ensuring ease and safety in travel.
This structured and supportive environment ensures a fulfilling and safe experience for mature volunteers focused on eye care.
Enrollment
When you are ready to enroll in our ophthalmology volunteer opportunities, you can begin our simple enrollment process. Our team is always just a quick call or message away. Follow these steps to start planning and preparing for the volunteer experience of a lifetime.
Research & Get the Facts
Step 1: Research
Read through this page, what is included in our volunteer eyecare project and decide if this project is a right fit for you. Consider the costs involved, project durations, the requirements, and what you are able to do.
Step 2: Learn about us
Feel free to learn more about us and what we stand for. Read about us, check out our reviews, download our volunteer brochure, or read through our FAQ.
Step 3: Open a dialogue with family and advisors
Start talking with your parents or guardian, friends, academic advisors, or mentors about the volunteer eye care program in Jamaica, why you want to join and what you hope to accomplish during your trip. Be sure to share our website or brochure with them.
Step 4: Connect with a Project Advisor
Reach out to us to connect with a Project Advisor who will guide you through the enrollment process, answer any questions you have, help you set your goals and itinerary, and meet with you and your parents or guardians to provide more information.
Admissions – Get Started
Step 1: Apply
Complete the application form for the optometry volunteer experience. By applying you won’t be making a commitment or locking yourself into the project, so you are free to explore other options and compare our projects with other eye care volunteer companies. Instead, your application will help us better advise you, plan your itinerary and customize a project for you. We review and respond to applications within 48 hours.
Step 2: Meet us
Schedule a virtual meeting with us. If you are under 18, you are required to have a parent or guardian present. Meetings are done on Zoom, Google Meets, or via phone call.
Step 3: Review the volunteer eye care tuition cost
Review the offer email, which includes the cost, sample itinerary, what is included, and what you need to submit.
Step 4: Secure your placement
Pay the Enrollment Fee and the Project Tuition for the pre-optometry volunteer opportunities. You have the option to pay the Project Tuition in full or request a payment plan.
Step 5: Start submitting documents
Submit outstanding payments and documents
The documents you should submit include:
- 2 Reference letters (1 personal, 1 professional)
- 1 recent photo ID (passport, national ID, school ID, or driver’s license)
- Proof of travel insurance
- Completed application form
- CV or resume
- Proof of qualifications (if you are certified or have experience in a specific field)
- Flight itinerary (Full Projects)
Pre-Arrival Prep & Getting Ready to Go
Step 1: Onboarding call
Within a month of the start date of your eye care volunteer abroad program, we will host a 30 minute onboarding call on Zoom or Google Meets with you. This includes an official welcome, tips and guides, and virtual orientation. You will get access to our Patois, Jamaican culture and our travel safety and security course online that you can complete at your own pace.
Step 2: Ensure you are travel ready
Check your passport to ensure it will not expire during your optometry volunteering trip, research if you need a visa to stay in Jamaica, obtain a travel medical insurance plan that covers you during your optometry volunteer abroad program in Jamaica, and book your flights.
Step 3: Finalize your enrollment
Confirm that all fees are paid, and submit all required documents.
F.A.Q.
Who can become an eye care volunteer?
There is no restriction on the nationalities that can participate in our international ophthalmology volunteer opportunity in Jamaica.
Can I talk to previous vision aid overseas volunteers?
Yes! Read our reviews to see what our past volunteers and interns have to say about us, and during the enrollment process, you can request to connect with a past volunteer/intern.
Will I be able to meet other eye clinic volunteer participants while I’m in Jamaica?
This depends on the time of year that you join, but you may meet other volunteers during your project. Keep in mind that other volunteers and interns may be enrolled in a different project than yours.
What are the requirements to join the eye care volunteer opportunities with JIP?
You must be 16 years old or older to enroll on your own. If you are younger than 16, you will have to enroll with a parent or guardian. For a full list of requirements check out this list.
Jamaica is an English-speaking country, so you should be able to read, write and speak English (you don’t need to be fluent).
No experience or qualifications are required just a willingness to do a great job and have lots of fun. We encourage you to share any dietary needs or any special accommodations needed for your participation. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about choosing the right program for you.
What costs do I need to consider?
Beyond the program tuition and enrollment fee, consider these additional costs to ensure a smooth and worry-free financial experience:
- Travel: This includes flights and any in-country transportation needs you might incur back in your home country.
- Daily Expenses: Budget for personal spending on snacks, shopping, laundry, and other incidentals.
- Extra Adventures: Factor in costs for optional tours, excursions, and additional meals if desired.
- Essentials: Remember travel medical insurance is required. You may also have to pay a visa fee to visit Jamaica depending on your nationality. We recommend budgeting for gratuities as well.
How can I pay for my optometry volunteer abroad project?
We accept payments by credit card or international wire transfer. You have the option to pay in full or go on a payment plan.
Do you offer sponsorships, grants or fundraising opportunities?
Looking for sponsorships or grants? While we don’t offer them directly, we can still help! Check with your school, parents/guardians, and mentors – they might have travel scholarships or grants available. We will assist with any application paperwork you need.
Need help funding your trip? Our detailed fundraising guide offers two options:
- Launch a crowdfunding campaign: This guide will walk you through setting up a campaign to get support from friends, family, and others.
- Discover creative fundraising ideas: Get inspired with a list of unique ways to raise money for your adventure.
Can I arrive earlier or later than my project start time?
To get the most out of your program, starting on the recommended Sunday is ideal. This way, you’ll participate in the initial orientation alongside your fellow participants, ensuring everyone is on the same page from the beginning.
Need to adjust your arrival date? No problem! Just let us know before enrolling, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request.
May I volunteer with friends/spouses/family?
Absolutely! Everything is better with friends. You can join with a parent, friend, sibling, or spouse and share a room (based on availability).
Will I be safe during my optometry volunteer abroad programs?
Yes! We take your safety and security seriously. Some steps we take to keep you safe during your trip include:
- Vetted project sites
- Accommodations with cameras and security systems
- A detailed course on safety in Jamaica
- Professional and licensed drivers take you to and from projects and destinations daily
- We take you to the supermarket or atm and transfer you safely
- All employees do background checks
Follow this link for more information on how we keep you safe.
