The International Health Collective (IHC) strives to alleviate disparities in the San Diego–Tijuana region and abroad using an approach that is culturally sensitive, holistic, and sustainable. Based in San Diego and run entirely by students and alumni, IHC is a youth-driven organization which gives it a unique ability to constantly innovate and improve its approach in an effort to create lasting change. In addition, IHC also promotes education and research both within the organization and in the communities it serves. IHC works closely with its communities and continually evaluates its efficacy in addressing their needs. IHC identifies with the World Health Organization’s definition of health, which goes beyond medicine and healthcare: "Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." IHC uses an interdisciplinary approach in which people of all backgrounds tackle large issues, regarding health, in a collaborative and comprehensive way. Students, teachers, medical professionals, engineers, community leaders, artists, and many others work together to create solutions and learn from one another. Our mission is to improve the health, and by extension the lives, of both those we serve and those who provide service.