Frequently Asked Questions

What is Clínica Verde?

Clínica Verde, meaning “Green Clinic,” is a nonprofit charitable organization fomed to build and assist sustainable health clinics that improve maternal and infant healthcare, beginning in Nicaragua. We promote socially responsible design and green technologies in the developing world while creating health partnerships with communities in need.

Why are you building “green” clinics?

We believe that health should start from the ground up, beginning with sustainable building practices that take a holistic approach to the environment, community and life quality of the people we serve. Sustainable building and design saves energy, protects and conserves natural resources, contributes to a safe, healthy indoor environment, and has a positive impact on the community.

Why did you decide to build the first clinic in Nicaragua?

Nicaragua is the second poorest country in Latin America and has one of the highest rates in the hemisphere of both adolescent fertility and maternal mortality. The need is, obviously, great. Nicaragua was selected as the site for our first clinic because of this, and also because of our personal experiences in that country and the exceptional relationships we’ve formed.

How is Clínica Verde working with the community in Nicaragua?

We know that Clínica Verde will be successful only if it’s a clinic that belongs to and is connected with the community it serves. Three of our board members are Nicaraguan, and we have a number of advisors working in-country to help us to identify and achieve our goals.

How does poor family health in Nicaragua affect me?

When a mother ails or dies, children and families suffer, increasing the number of orphans, crime, poverty and social instability. Poverty and lack of education are leading causes of unrest and violence in our world. By helping to improve the health of families in Nicaragua, we become part of the solution to bring about change at a global level – and that affects us all.

Once built, how will the clinic be staffed and maintained?

Clínica Verde will be run by a Nicaraguan medical director, physicians and nursing staff, with oversight and reporting to the Board of Directors of Clínica Verde. Our organization in the United States will engage in continuous fund-raising and development, while moving towards a plan in which paying patients partially subsidize the free medical care provided to the poor.

How can I help?

Share our story with your friends. Learn more. Become a financial supporter. Help us to change lives.