title: When one has nothing, a little is a lot.
abstract: Volunteerism in Third World countries is a rewarding but humbling experience. Although different locations have specific issues that must be overcome, common threads are often found. Through experience, desire, and commitment, a great deal of value can be created by the work of volunteers-value for both the recipient and the giver. This article reflects some of my experiences and thoughts on this topic.
authors.affiliation: Maricopa Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA. lsbodell@msn.com
authors.forename: Leonard S
authors.initials: LS
authors.lastname: Bodell
mesh_terms: D003906:Developing Countries; D013502:General Surgery; D006166:Guatemala; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008493:Medical Missions; D014838:Volunteers / Q000523:psychology*; D015022:Yugoslavia