At a glance: GlobeMed at Penn State works with EAPSEC, a small grassroots organization in Chiapas, Mexico. EAPSEC, a Spanish acronym for ‘Team for the Support of Community Health and Education’, addresses local health care inequities by supporting community health workers known as promotores. GlobeMed at Penn State is leading a campaign to raise $5,000 to fund two conferences for the education and training of the promotores so they can bring a life of dignity to the people of Chiapas.

Location: Chiapas, Mexico 

Key fact: Chiapas endures among the highest rates of infant, maternal, and tuberculosis mortality throughout all of Mexico. 

Partner Info: Mostly of indigenous Mayan descent, the citizens of Chiapas have endured extreme poverty, political violence, and, most recently, natural disasters. A malnutrition rate of 57.4% highlights the atrocious conditions present in many communities. EAPSEC addresses these issues by not only treating illness, but also by advocating for the human rights of every citizen. Today, health promoters work in over 20 communities throughout Chiapas. With support from Partners In Health, this network of community health promoters conduct demographic health surveys and accompany physicians on medical consultations. In addition, they afford Chiapanecos continuity of care, especially for those with chronic diseases. 

Project/Impact: GlobeMed at Penn State raises funds for two conferences each year that help educate and train the promotores. In previous years, almost 80 participants attended each conference. The promotores were able to discuss local challenges, identify best practices, and further develop their skills. In the future, GlobeMed at Penn State hopes to attend these conferences and work with the promotores to ascertain other areas where the partnership can make an impact. 

Chapter History: GlobeMed at Penn State partnered with EAPSEC in November of 2008. Through Internet phone conversations and future visits, we hope to further develop our partnership with EAPSEC and thus bring a life of dignity to the people of Chiapas.