4. Short-term community service groups nearly always perform work that could be done—usually better—by people in the community that they are visiting.

Before you plan an elaborate work project, or even a medical mission, consider the fact that unemployment and underemployment are significant problems throughout Central America. This is as true for highly educated people (including doctors) as it is for both skilled and entry-level labor.

So ask yourself: Will your project take opportunities for paid work away from members of the community?

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