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Courier Program
How it Began
The Courier Program grew out of Mary Breckinridge’s experiences during
World War I during her service with the American Committee for
Devastated France (CARD). She witnessed the CARD Motor Corps staffed by
able bodied girl chauffeurs who provided transportation. Mary
Breckinridge seized upon this and realized that this same system could
greatly help FNS. Thus, the Courier Program was born in 1928 and
consisted of non-medical volunteer personnel who attended to the everyday chores
that, at that time, were very demanding. The Couriers assisted nurses by
delivering supplies to remote outpost clinics, grooming and caring for
the clinics’ horses, assisting the nurse-midwife in home visits and
occasionally lending a hand with home births. Coming from wealthy
families, this was far from the glamorous life that some had been
accustomed to. Shortly after their arrival the Couriers soon learned that
they were a part of something that would change their lives forever.
We extend far beyond what began all those years ago, but continue to
reach out to embrace our community regardless of gender, race or
financial status. We believe that is how Mrs. Breckinridge intended it
to be and we look forward to you becoming a part of her legacy.
To learn more about what FNS Couriers participate today and to see how
you can volunteer to be a Courier, click here: Today's Courier Program
and Application
