Global Health Alliance at the University of Michigan

Formerly GlobeMed at UMich, we are a grassroots student organization strengthening the movement for global health equity. We believe that a sustainable partnership model is the best way to maximize impact and minimize the sometimes-harmful iatrogenic effects of nonprofit work. We are sustainable by maintaining long-term partnerships (5+ years) and helping our partners reach self-sufficiency. We believe in true partnership: a collaboration where both parties are equally heard, acknowledged, and involved in decision-making processes. By purposefully working with these shared ideals, we empower our partners to improve the health of their own communities. We empower our students through service and weekly presentations on global health topics. Global Health Alliance at UMich currently partners with Green Umbrella, a non-governmental organization in Tutor, Cambodia, and the Joy Southfield Community Development Corporation (JSCDC), a community-based nonprofit in Detroit, Michigan. Our international partnership with Green Umbrella was established in 2017 after we helped our first international partner, Amun Shea in El Salvador, reach self-sufficiency. Throughout the year, we fundraise $6,000+ for Green Umbrella to improve community health education and encourage youth leadership. Every summer, our Grassroots On-Site Work (GROW) team travels to Cambodia to put our fundraising efforts into place through waste management community research, basic health education, and teaching English, Science, and Art in their Karuna Kumar school and youth programs. Our local partnership with JSCDC in Detroit was established in 2011. The JSCDC provides primary healthcare for the uninsured and insured, a community garden and farmer’s market, mentoring, and local economic development. Our work with JSCDC includes volunteering at the garden and market, as well as curating and leading the Leading Youth Through Food and Financial Education (LYFFE) program in Detroit neighborhood schools.