Our mission is to provide love and care to children deprived of parental care and to change the lives of the volunteers who love and care for them.
17.0 Incident Reports
Maintaining good health is essential to safe, effective, and meaningful service. Volunteers who care for their physical and emotional well-being are better able to connect with the children and fully participate in the OSSO experience. The following guidelines outline prevention, response, and support expectations for volunteers and directors.
17.1.0 Hygiene and Illness Prevention
Hand sanitizing is required before any contact with children and after all restroom use or meal preparation.
Masks must be worn at Hogar de Ángeles (HdA) and any other medically sensitive site.
Stay home when sick. Volunteers must report illness to the DOVEs before their shift.
No contact when contagious. Fever, vomiting, or respiratory symptoms require rest and clearance before returning to service.
17.1.1 Nutrition and Hydration
Eat balanced meals and avoid skipping meals to maintain energy.
Drink bottled or filtered water only.
Hydrate regularly, especially at higher altitudes. Electrolyte supplements are encouraged after long service hours or outdoor activity.
Disinfect all fruits and vegetables before eating.
Avoid raw or undercooked meats, dairy, and street food of uncertain origin.
17.1.2 Immune and Digestive Support
Volunteers are encouraged to bring or purchase vitamins, immune-support supplements, and pro/prebiotics to maintain gut health.
Directors may remind volunteers that the change in diet, altitude, and climate can affect digestion and energy; consistent immune and digestive support helps reduce illness and fatigue.
17.1.3 Environmental and Personal Care
Dress appropriately for weather conditions. Evenings can be cold at higher altitudes; volunteers should bring and wear layers to stay warm.
Use sunscreen and wear hats for sun protection.
Pace yourself. Volunteers should not overexert themselves during service or outings; altitude can make physical activity more tiring than expected.
Rest adequately. Directors should encourage healthy sleep schedules and balanced routines.
17.1.4 Injury and Risk Prevention
Follow safety instructions during excursions or outings.
Immediately report any injury, no matter how small, to the DOVEs or Operations Coordinator.
17.2.0 Health Insurance
All volunteers and directors are required to carry international health insurance for the duration of their stay. OSSO does not cover medical costs.
17.2.1 Medical Support
OSSO maintains contact information for local doctors and psychologists who can make house calls if needed.
The Operations Coordinator assists in contacting medical professionals or arranging transportation when a volunteer requires care.
In emergencies, seek immediate medical attention and notify the Operations Coordinator as soon as possible.
17.2.2 Emergency Procedures
Prioritize urgent medical care first; notification can occur afterward.
Contact the Operations Coordinator and the Volunteer Programs Director as soon as possible after emergency intervention.
Embassy contact information is listed in the Emergency Protocol section for severe or complex cases.
Although vaccines are not required to serve with OSSO they are encouraged. If any outbreaks occur in the area that are of concern the Operations Coordinator notifies the DOVEs, who speak with the volunteers about taking appropriate precautions to avoid infection.
Depending on the severity of the outbreak and the vaccine levels of the volunteers, precautions could include:
-wearing masks
-wearing gloves
-not serving in orphanages where children are ill
-leaving the volunteer program.
DOVEs should check in regularly with volunteers to gauge emotional well-being. Details about supporting volunteer emotional and mental health can be found in the DOVE training portal.
Encourage volunteers to rest, journal, or talk about experiences if feeling overwhelmed.
For persistent emotional distress or trauma responses, contact the Operations Coordinator to arrange professional support with the local psychologist or other resources.
Emphasize that asking for help is part of responsible service — it does not reflect weakness.
Monitor overall volunteer health through observation, conversation, and Post-Shift Questionnaires.
Remind volunteers to follow preventive guidelines and seek help early when needed.
Support volunteers through illness or emotional strain by offering understanding and adjusting duties as appropriate.
Report any serious or recurring health issues to the Operations Coordinator immediately.
Volunteers should come prepared to maintain their health and comfort in a new environment. The following items are strongly recommended to help prevent illness, manage minor discomforts, and stay healthy throughout service.
17.6.0 General Health Essentials
Personal prescription medications (enough for the entire stay, plus a copy of prescriptions)
Daily multivitamins
Immune support supplements (e.g., Vitamin C, Vitamin D, zinc, elderberry, etc.)
Probiotics or prebiotic supplements to support digestive health
Electrolyte packets or hydration tablets
Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
Lip balm with SPF protection
Insect repellent
17.6.1 Comfort and Environmental Health
Reusable water bottle (for filtered or bottled water only)
Layered clothing for both warm days and cool evenings
Comfortable walking shoes with good support
Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
Warm pajamas or layers for cooler nights (especially in Cuenca and Quito)
Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
17.6.2 Preventive and Digestive Care
Antacids, anti-nausea, or anti-diarrheal medicine (as a precaution)
Fiber supplement (adjusting to local diets may cause changes)
Rehydration salts or packets (especially for altitude or stomach issues)
17.6.3 Altitude and Energy Support
Iron or B12 supplements (recommended for those prone to fatigue)
Cough drops or lozenges (for dry mountain air)
17.6.4 Documentation and Insurance
Copy of international health insurance policy and emergency contact numbers
Copy of prescriptions and medical summary (if applicable)
Any allergy or medical alert information card