With more than $1 billion in medical aid and 35 million people served around the world, Northwest Medical Teams is changing its name to Medical Teams International, a name that better reflects its global impact.

"For 27 years, Northwest Medical Teams has sent thousands of volunteers to help people in need around the world," says Bas Vanderzalm, president of Medical Teams International. "Today with pride in our Pacific Northwest roots and our reach extending to more than 100 countries, we are acknowledging that we are a more global humanitarian aid agency with programs, staff and partner organizations around the world.

"We're grateful for our roots in the Northwest and we are not leaving. Our new name will help us attract volunteers and supporters from across the United States and internationally. We will also be able to help more people more effectively."

Medical Teams International continues to be based in the Pacific Northwest, with its international offices and distribution center in Tigard, Ore., and a second office in Bellevue, Wash.

Interviews/photos are available from 10:30 to 12 noon, Tuesday, Feb. 20, at Medical Teams International headquarters, 14150 SW Milton Ct, Tigard: -Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue (a project partner of the agency) will bring its ladder truck to help President Vanderzalm unveil the new sign on the agency's building. (10:30-11:10 a.m.) -International staff from Uganda, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Uzbekistan, Mexico and Liberia are available for interviews. -B-roll of the agency's response to international disasters will also be distributed.

"Our name is changing, but our commitment to volunteer involvement, low overhead and multiplying each contribution through diligent stewardship continues. Medical Teams International clearly identifies what we do and explains our growing global involvement," says Vanderzalm.

Since 1979, the relief agency has shipped more than $1 billion in supplies and served 35 million people. More than 1,650 volunteer teams have traveled to communities affected by hurricanes, floods, conflict and poverty. The organization's Mobile Dental Clinic Program operates 10 dental units in the Pacific Northwest. Nearly 1,000 volunteer dental professionals provide care to 17,000 patients annually.

For additional information about the name change, please visit the Web site www.medicalteams.org or call 1-800-959-8325.