- 2001: Vieques, Puerto Rico Health Assessment

Uplift International’s reputation for innovation and effective program implementation prompted the U.S. Navy to select the organization to conduct a comprehensive health assessment of the island of Vieques, Puerto Rico and recommend health projects that would respond to the needs of the people.

For sixty years the U.S. Navy operated a highly controversial test bombing range on the small island.  It was a lightning rod for protest by local and outside activists that brought world-wide attention to the alleged detrimental health effects of the bombings on the population of the island.  Working at the grass roots level within the Vieques community, Uplift International developed a health plan for the Navy that addressed leading health concerns of the population, while providing improved access to preventive care.