Bissian, Pakistan: After the immediate shock of the earthquake that hit the Kashmir regions of Pakistan and India, killing nearly 75,000, the approach of winter poses a second deadly threat to the survivors. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, a volunteer translator, sends a diary full of tragedy, despair and heroism from a Cuban medical camp in the mountains.  Read article

Manet, Malawi: On a typical day at the Mzuzu Central Hospital, Hilda Matalala tested 20 blood samples for HIV, counselled up to 10 patients and treated 30 patients with sexually transmitted infections. Hilda is a United Nations Volunteer.  Read article

I remember it was one of the very first days of my work that one old man who was attending the Chronic Disease Clinic came to me. When I started to examine him, he told me, "Doctor, God bless you, doctor!" I was surprised: "Thanks, but I have done nothing for you yet!" He replied, "I am attending this clinic for more than 20 years and this is the first time a doctor is putting stethoscope on my chest!"  Read article

Weston, USA: After a year at Mount Holyoke College, Weston High School graduate Julie Angiolillo decided to try something completely different. In early September she left for Sri Lanka to volunteer at the Kalutara North Tsunami Camp. She considers the connections she made with the children to be one of her greatest achievements.  Read article

From all over the world, and away from the media glare, volunteers have gone to help in rebuilding Pakistan since last month's disastrous earthquake. Many volunteers are still working in the field, trying to save the lives of villagers who have lost their homes -- and may lose more with the onset of winter. Who are they, why did they go, and what did they find when they were there?  Read article