Mark Backlin

Mark Backlin is a frequent volunteer in the Adopt-A-Village International (AaVI) trips to Ecuador. He has traveled with AaVI three times as well as volunteering with his own organization (JLMF) numerous more times. Needless to say, he is very committed to helping the people of Ecuador.
As a doctor, Mark states that the people of Ecuador are in dire need of medical attention. He mentions that “on an average day, an AaVI clinic can get anywhere between 60 to 75 patients”; most of whom need dental help or suffer from malnutrition.
Mark says that AaVI's main goal is to give an Ecuador Community a push in order to become a self-sustaining society in five years time. It's not Adopt-A-Village’s goal to be a source of dependence. However, in order to help the Ecuadorian people the best ways possible while keeping with the mission, Mark states that he leaves the dental records of procedures he has done in Ecuador so that future volunteers can see what treatments the patients have gone through.
Ecuador has a very different culture and atmosphere that most people in America aren’t accustomed to. Mark says one interesting fact about Ecuadorian culture is that the people often eat Guinea Pigs. He advises volunteers to “bring a variety of clothes. Ecuador has many climates as well as a broad variation of temperatures.” It would also be a good idea to bring bug spray and don't forget your medication. “Ecuador can be a beautiful place; while there, be sure to view the country, experience the culture, and take a look at the nature”, Mark suggests.