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"The BTG Program provides needed resources to the many thousands of community-based organizations that are working to create a more socially just and compassionate world. Because of their support, many nonprofits are able to reach and enrich the lives of many more people."
BTG Community Preceptor |
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Philadelphia Consortium Projects
Children & Youth
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Healthy Kids 2010
Student Intern(s):
Stephanie DiGiambattista, Temple University, School of Medicine
Lindsay Thompson, Temple University, College of Health Professions, Department of Physical Therapy
Academic Preceptor(s):
Moya Kinnealey, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, BCP, Temple University, College of Health Professions, Department of Occupational Therapy
Community Preceptor(s):
Debra Jones, Community Women’s Education Project, Early Learning Center
Diana Love, Community Women’s Education Project, Early Learning Center
The Community Site:
The Community Women’s Education Project (CWEP), located in Kensington, is a community-based educational facility addressing the social and economic inequalities affecting the community’s at-risk families. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Access to Health Care; Overweight and Obesity; Physical Activity
Focus Areas: Educational and Community-Based Programs; Maternal, Infant and Child Health; Nutrition and Overweight; Oral Health; Physical Activity and Fitness
The Project:
Lindsay and Stephanie developed and facilitated a health education program for the children attending CWEP Early Learning Center’s preschool program. The educational presentations focused on nutrition, exercise, oral health, hand washing, germs and healthy living. The overall goal of the program was to introduce and enhance the children’s awareness and understanding of general health care, while improving their fine motor and cognitive skills. Stephanie commented, “CWEP has really taught me how different health professions and community organizations can work together to achieve a common goal.” Lindsay stated, “Working with the children and staff at the CWEP preschool has given me a great appreciation of how health care affects the community and vice versa.”
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I Am SomeBODY: Instilling Healthy Minds and Healthy Bodies in Toddlers Affected by HIV/AIDS
Student Intern(s):
Susan Schmidt, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Colleen Zanis, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Preceptor(s):
Eugene Mochan, PhD, DO, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Community Preceptor(s):
Theresa Meggett, St. Mary’s Family Respite Center
Sandra Thompson, St. Mary’s Family Respite Center
The Community Site:
St. Mary’s Family Respite Center, located in West Philadelphia, provides child care, parent/caregiver support groups and social events for family members and their children who are affected by HIV/AIDS. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Mental Health; Overweight and Obesity; Physical Activity
Focus Areas: HIV; Nutrition and Overweight; Oral Health; Physical Activity and Fitness; Maternal, Infant and Child Health; Health Communication
The Project:
Colleen and Susan assisted the St. Mary's staff in providing child care and early childhood education. The interns facilitated age-appropriate health lessons addressing heart health, nutrition, self-esteem, the five senses, helmet safety and exercise. More important, Colleen and Susan provided individual attention, love and nurturing for children who have experienced many life challenges at an early age due to HIV/AIDS. Colleen reflected, “I end this summer with a life experience that undoubtedly leaves me a more sensitive future physician with increased community awareness. St. Mary's put faces to the HIV epidemic we learn about in our medical education.” Susan said, “The children taught me that every life is precious, and that one’s health is not to be taken for granted.”
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Community Building in a Philadelphia Pediatric Daycare
Student Intern(s):
Diana Ng, University of Pennsylvania, School of Nursing
Aldo “Vinny” Londino, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson Medical College
Academic Preceptor(s):
Charles A. Pohl, MD, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson Medical College
Ann L. O’Sullivan, PhD, FAAN, CPNP, University of Pennsylvania, School of Nursing Community Preceptor(s):
Stephanie Goldstein, Goldstein Consulting Group and Frankie’s World
Heather Palasky, RN, BSN, Frankie’s World
The Community Site:
Frankie’s World, located in North Philadelphia, is a day care center for children from birth to age 8 with special health-care needs. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Access to Health Care; Environmental Quality; Physical Activity
Focus Areas: Access to Quality Health Services; Disability and Secondary Conditions; Educational and Community-Based Programs; Health Communication; Nutrition and Overweight
The Project:
Diana and Vinny assisted the staff in creating a safe, fun, educational environment for the children at Frankie’s World. In addition to the program’s daily activities and caring for the children, Diana and Vinny worked on two projects. They designed a process to determine parents’ satisfaction concerning their child’s medical care, safety, interaction with other children, and with how well they benefited from the resources provided by the day care center. They also helped to plan and host a parent evening to initiate a new organization that would serve as a support group for the parents and also provide a more effective way for the staff at Frankie’s World to communicate with the parents about newly available resources and educational sessions. Diana said, “Working with Frankie’s World staff and children has been a brilliant experience … They have taught me so much about my present self as well as … the kind of nurse I want to be.” Vinny noted, “I have learned what it means to be part of a health-care team, to work side by side with professionals from different backgrounds with different areas of expertise but very similar goals.”
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I am a Healthy Kid: Teaching Young Children Healthy Habits
Student Intern(s):
Andrea Benton, Temple University, School of Medicine
Megan Sheppard, Temple University, College of Health Professions, Department of Occupational Therapy Academic Preceptor(s):
Moya Kinnealey, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, BCP, Temple University, College of Health Professions, Department of Occupational Therapy Community Preceptor(s):
Raeleena Collington, MS, Head Start Learning Tree
The Community Site:
Head Start Learning Tree, located in Southwest Philadelphia, is an early education program that provides a summer learning experience for children aged 3 to 5. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Physical Activity; Mental Health; Overweight and Obesity
Focus Areas: Physical Activity and Fitness; Nutrition and Overweight; Mental Health and Mental Disorders; Oral Health
The Project:
Andrea and Megan worked alongside the classroom teachers and provided weekly Healthy Kid Workshops for the children attending the preschool summer camp. Topics included exercise and fitness, nutrition, self-esteem, emotions, and oral health. Andrea and Megan, used songs, stories and games to convey information in the workshops. Supplemental health lessons were integrated into daily classroom activities using books, arts and crafts, drawing, and coloring. Megan said, “Participating in the Bridging the Gaps program has been an extremely rewarding experience for me.” Andrea noted, “This summer has taught me something new every day … I learned just how enthusiastic and resilient the children are.”
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Food Tastings and Kid-Friendly Recipes: A Means to Encourage Healthy Eating Habits
Student Intern(s):
Teenu Cherian, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Megan Wolfe, University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, Department of Occupational Therapy Academic Preceptor(s):
Eugene Mochan, PhD, DO, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Ruth L. Schemm, EdD, OTR/L, FAOTA, University of the Sciences in Philadelphia Community Preceptor(s):
Paulette Copeland-Bolton, Lee Cultural Center
Patricia Thompson, Lee Cultural Center
The Community Site:
The Lee Cultural Center hosts a camp for youth aged 2 to 13 to benefit the children living in West Philadelphia. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Access to Health Care; Physical Activity; Overweight and Obesity
Focus Areas: Access to Quality Health Services; Nutrition and Overweight; Oral Health; Physical Activity and Fitness; Food Safety
The Project:
Teenu and Megan, working with the Lee staff, identified nutrition as the main theme for their summer activities. To enhance the efforts of the camp’s visiting nutritionist, the interns designed sessions focusing on food safety, the food pyramid and food groups, and physical fitness. The campers were introduced to healthy unfamiliar foods with food tasting. A recipe booklet for each child was compiled from the kid-friendly recipes discussed in the sessions. A field trip to the nearby farmers’ market gave the youth more awareness of their options for fresh produce within their own community. To conclude the nutrition lessons, the staff joined the children in creating a nutrition-themed mural on a wall surrounding the camp’s playground. Teenu commented, “ … I have also come to understand that in order to best serve those around me I have to be willing to first learn from the population about their circumstances and livelihoods.” Megan reflected, “ … I also enjoyed the lectures provided because they gave insight to a variety of professions’ philosophies with which I will be working in the future, and ideas of how to better provide for our community.”
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Bridging the Cross-Cultural Gaps Between Safety and Special Needs
Student Intern(s):
Dayan Colon Sanchez, Temple University, School of Medicine
Lina Milagros Schuerch, Temple University, School of Medicine
Academic Preceptor(s):
Dianne Butera, MSW, Temple University, School of Medicine
Community Preceptor(s):
Monica Kondrad, RNC, BSN, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Center for Children with Special Healthcare Needs
Renee Turchi, MD, MPH, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Center for Children with Special Healthcare Needs
The Community Site:
The Center for Children with Special Healthcare Needs at St. Christopher’s Hospital provides comprehensive well-child care and acute illness management for children with special health-care needs and their siblings. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Access to Health Care; Environmental Quality; Injury and Violence
Focus Areas: Access to Quality Health Services; Disability and Secondary Conditions; Environmental Health; Health Communication; Medical Product Safety
The Project:
Dayan and Lina created and conducted home safety assessments for families of children with special needs. Working with a medical equipment specialist, the interns were able to simultaneously evaluate houses for medical equipment needs while educating the families about environmental and fire hazards. Each home visit also provided an opportunity for the family to enroll with the 911 service, thereby making both the fire and police departments aware of the presence of a special-needs child in the home. The interns created a community resource guide with references to agencies and services frequently used by clients. They also collaborated with a special-needs family to record a LikoLight lift instructional video in Spanish, and gave a home safety presentation to a Spanish-speaking parent support group. Dayan said, “I learned that as a physician I need to treat patients as a whole, not just what is physically wrong. There is so much more to a person, there is so much more to a family.” Lina said, “This summer I witnessed how collaboration among medical and service disciplines results in comprehensive, coordinated, special-needs health care. I saw firsthand how barriers such as language and insurance regulations affect access to quality care and resources.”
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Artology: Inquire, Explore, Create
Student intern(s):
Douglas Heidelberger, Drexel University College of Medicine
Shantel Jackson, Drexel University, College of Nursing and Health Professions, Creative Arts in Therapy
Angelo Kim, Drexel University College of Medicine
Marisol S. Norris, Drexel University, College of Nursing and Health Professions, Creative Arts in Therapy
Amy Sorrento, Drexel University, College of Nursing and Health Professions, Creative Arts in Therapy
Academic Preceptor(s):
Flossie M. Ierardi, MM, MT-BC, LPC, Drexel University, College of Nursing and Health Professions, Creative Arts in Therapy Community Preceptor(s):
Charlene Melhorn, BS, Build-a-Bridge International
The Community Site:
Build-a-Bridge International, located in Germantown, is an arts education and intervention organization that engages the transformative power of the arts to bring hope and healing to children, families and communities. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Injury & Violence; Environmental Quality; Physical Activity
Focus Areas: Educational and Community-Based Programs; Environmental Health; Injury and Violence Prevention; Nutrition and Overweight; Physical Activity and Fitness
The Project:
Douglas, Shantel, Angelo, Marisol and Amy helped plan and lead Artology, a three-week summer camp for children, grades five through seven, many of whom live in homeless shelters or transitional housing. Artology focused on the connections between the arts and sciences. Camp activities included drumming and dance circles, nature trips to Fairmount Park, gathering discarded plastic bottles in the streets to create a recycled-art sculpture, dissecting a sheep’s heart, as well as field trips to local museums. The camp culminated in an art show at a professional gallery that debuted on Philadelphia’s famed First Friday in August. Doug commented, “This summer has taught me how artistic expression can empower a child’s will to learn.” Amy said, “My experience this summer of working at Artology has been truly amazing … I am grateful to have witnessed the immense talent as well as determination that the children possess.” Angelo said, “I’ve learned that these kids can overcome much and still remain curious about the world. Hopefully, we have helped grow this seed of curiosity a little which might make an impact in the future.” Shantel reflected, “Everyday I walked into my internship I felt extremely fortunate to be working with the remarkable staff of Build-a-Bridge. Inspiration also came through … the powerful marriage between science and art as a way of experiential learning.” Marisol stated, “The hard work and deep commitment that propels this program is inspirational and urges me to continually strive to create a world where everyone may experience the joy and beauty that nature and the arts bring.”
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Circular Patterns of Health
Student Intern(s):
Kristen Shaw, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Jenna Stokes, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Academic Preceptor(s):
Eugene Mochan, PhD, DO, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Community Preceptor(s):
Tina Jenkins, MHS, Church of the Advocate, Washington Wiz Kids
The Community Site:
The Church of the Advocate provides a soup kitchen, community food bank, Narcotics Anonymous meetings, after school and preschool programs, and a summer Wiz Kids Camp. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Environmental Quality; Injury and Violence; Overweight and Obesity
Focus Areas: Educational and Community-Based Programs; Environmental Health; Injury and Violence Prevention; Nutrition and Overweight; Physical Activity and Fitness
The Project:
Kristen and Jenna developed an interactive, health promotion program for the Washington Wiz Kids Summer Camp participants aged 5 to 13. All sessions utilized hands-on activities, games and/or exercises. Topics included heart health, nutrition, physical activity, oral health, environmental health and mental health. The environmental awareness component included discussions, creation of recycling bins and a neighborhood cleanup. Life skills discussions focused on goal setting, leadership development, teamwork, fostering healthy relationships, challenging stereotypes, education, and recognizing positive attributes in each other. The program also included discussions on bullying, peer pressure, fighting, gun violence and personal safety. Kristen stated, “Teaching children this summer has been a challenge, and while far from being an expert in the field, I feel as though I have made leaps in my knowledge of how to work with children.” Jenna noted, “The children of the Church of the Advocate have taught me countless lessons about love, service, and trust that I will never forget."
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Promoting Healthy Lifestyles
Student Intern(s):
Amanda Crichlow, University of Pennsylvania, School of Medicine
Keren Levine, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine
Jiby Thomas, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson College of Health Professions, Department of Nursing Academic Preceptor(s):
Louis M. Bell, MD, University of Pennsylvania, School of Medicine
Joan I. Gluch, PhD, RDH, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine
Maria Hervada-Page, MSS, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson Medical College Community Preceptor(s):
Lorraine Thomas, Family Practice and Counseling Network, The Health Annex
Sharon McCollum, Family Practice and Counseling Network, The Health Annex
The Community Site:
The Health Annex, a component program of the Family Practice and Counseling Network, provides primary, dental, and behavioral health care, prenatal care, and social services. The Myers Recreation Center provides a summer day camp for community children. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Physical Activity; Obesity; Injury Prevention
Focus Areas: Heart Disease; Injury and Violence Prevention; Nutrition; Oral Health; Smoking Cessation; Physical Activity
The Project:
At the Health Annex, Amanda, Jiby and Keren assisted the staff with planning and implementation of the Annual Southwest Family Day Festival: Health and Safety Fair. This event promotes healthy lifestyles, behaviors and choices in the Southwest Philadelphia community. At the Myers Recreation Center Summer Day Camp, the interns provided health education for children aged 2 to 12. The sessions addressed topics such as nutrition, smoking, oral health, injury prevention, cardiovascular health, the body system, physical activity and environmental issues. Jiby noted, “This experience allowed me to work with young professionals from other schools and disciplines, and I really enjoyed that.” Amanda stated, “After noticing some of the barriers that these children face in the community, it is important to remind them that they have role models and there are people out there who really want to help them.” Keren said, “This internship … helped me see things from other people’s perspectives. By allowing me to view things from the other side, it will help foster a better relationship between health-care professional and patient, which I believe is the greater goal of this program.”
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Growing Healthy Children
Student Intern(s):
Laura Schaffner, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson College of Health Professions, Department of Occupational Therapy
Alexandra Schuck, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson Medical College Academic Preceptor(s):
Carl Pitts, PT, DPT, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson College of Health Professions, Department of Physical Therapy Community Preceptor(s):
Skip Wiener, Urban Tree Connection
The Community Site:
Urban Tree Connection is a community-based urban greening project that transforms abandoned open spaces into community gardens. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Physical Activity; Overweight and Obesity
Focus Areas: Diabetes; Education and Community-Based Programs; Health Communication; Nutrition and Overweight; Physical Activity and Fitness
The Project:
Laura and Alexandra assisted the Urban Tree Connection program in providing health and nutrition information at gardening locations in Philadelphia. Their health education activities were based on the findings of a survey that asked children for baseline data about their health and nutrition habits. The interns assisted in a community lunch program that targeted obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure by facilitating discussions and completing worksheets. In addition, they helped to provide structured play games that increased the physical activity level of the children and encouraged healthy play. Laura noted, “I have developed a deeper understanding of the community’s impact on health.” Alexandra said, “This experience has also furthered my comprehension of the definition of health: this term encompasses not only a person’s diet and eating habits, but also his or her cultural background, ethnicity, family behaviors, the larger community, physical activity level, and lifestyle as a whole.”
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Promoting Healthy Lifestyle Choices in Urban Youth Through Interaction, Education and Encouragement
Student Intern(s):
Nicole Ross, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Shimeka Bayley, University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, Department of Physical Therapy Academic Preceptor(s):
Eugene Mochan, PhD, DO, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Community Preceptor(s):
Phyllis D. Lawhorn, Columbia North YMCA
The Community Site:
The Columbia North YMCA, located in North Philadelphia, offers a wide range of programs including a summer day camp for children aged 3 to 17. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Physical Activity; Overweight and Obesity; Tobacco Use
Focus Areas: Nutrition and Overweight; Physical Activity and Fitness; Oral Health; Tobacco Use; Food Safety
The Project:
Nicole and Shimeka assisted the camp counselors in providing child care and guidance to campers aged 6 to 8, and presented health-related lessons focused on healthy lifestyle choices. Emphasis was placed on nutrition, physical activity, cardiovascular health and the harmful effects of tobacco use. Interactive lessons, craft projects, worksheets and small group discussions facilitated youth participation and integration of health education into daily camp activities. In addition, interns and camp counselors helped campers build self-confidence and respect through constant encouragement, one-to-one interaction and positive feedback. Nicole noted, “Being exposed to the powerful compassion and excitement for life that children possess has forever changed me as a health professional. It is simply impossible to not let the soul of a child brighten your outlook and sharpen your focus on becoming a better physician.” Shimeka stated, “Learning about the different community programs Philadelphia has to offer has given me a chance to expand my horizons. Interacting with Philadelphia's community dwellers and becoming familiar with the various issues that continuously affect certain neighborhoods has become an experience that I will always treasure.”
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Philly Kids Got Heart: Making Children Aware of Health Issues
Student Intern(s):
Daniel Lee, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson Medical College
Elizabeth Mauger, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson College of Health Professions, Department of Occupational Therapy
Alexis Sheaffer, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson Medical College Academic Preceptor(s):
Chris Jerpbak, MD, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson Medical College Community Preceptor(s):
Marcella Miller-Greaves, To Our Children’s Future with Health, Safe Haven
Dana Twynam, To Our Children’s Future with Health, Safe Haven
The Community Site:
Located in West Philadelphia, To Our Children’s Future with Health’s Safe Haven Summer Program provides an enriching, fun and educational summer program for youth aged 7 to 14. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Physical Activity; Overweight and Obesity; Injury and Violence
Focus Areas: Injury and Violence Protection; Nutrition and Overweight; Oral Health; Physical Activity and Fitness; Heart Disease and Stroke
The Project:
Daniel, Elizabeth, and Alexis developed a health education curriculum for children involved in the Safe Haven summer camp. Weekly health topics included bullying peers, nutrition, exercise, resilience, violence and oral hygiene. The interns addressed these issues through group discussions, arts and crafts, exercise groups, and field trips. Daniel reflected, “As a BTG intern, I was temporarily accepted into a community … They accepted me on their own terms, whether it was as future doctor or as Kung Fu Master. It was a liberating yet somewhat saddening experience to embrace a community to which I will never really belong … Still, I hope that in some small way, I have given inspiration to that kid who wanted to be something, just as I have received it from him.” Elizabeth said, “This summer camp has opened my eyes to different neighborhoods … I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know each child on a personal level and being able to have fun with the children as a group.” Alexis said, “The children both surprise and inspire me every day, and keep me moving nonstop.”
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Healthy Living—Healthy Learning
Student Intern(s):
Justine Brown, University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, Department of Physical Therapy
Valerie Martin, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Academic Preceptor(s):
Eugene Mochan, PhD, DO, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Community Preceptor(s):
Lillian M. Hood, MSS, Bartram Beacon Community Center
Tramaine Mills, Bartram Beacon Community Center
Lakeisha Stokes, Bartram Beacon Community Center
The Community Site:
Bartram Beacon Community Center, housed within the John Bartram High School in West Philadelphia, provides a variety of programs including a summer camp for community youth.
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Physical Activity; Overweight and Obesity; Environmental Quality
Focus Areas: Nutrition and Overweight; Oral Health; Physical Activity and Fitness; Food Safety; Educational and Community-Based Programs
The Project:
Justine and Valerie coordinated the Healthy Living Class for the youth attending summer camp. The curriculum highlighted nutrition, heart health and body systems. The youth learned about these health issues through a variety of activities such as interactive discussions, quizzes and games, informative worksheets, making healthy snacks, and reading books related to health promotion. Justine reflected, “Through Bridging the Gaps, the teaching and learning skills that I’ve been able to develop have been a vital asset to my self-awareness … Discovering these things … will undoubtedly benefit all aspects of my future.” Valeria said, “I believe I am truly leaving this experience with a stronger knowledge of bridging the communication gap between medical professionals and the community of children.”
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Making Room for a Healthy and Safe Future: Educating Youth on Nutrition, Oral Hygiene and Physical Activity
Student Intern(s):
Modupe Agunbiade, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Biomedical Sciences Program
Michael Salvatore, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Biomedical Sciences Program Academic Preceptor(s):
Eugene Mochan, PhD, DO, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Community Preceptor(s):
Brian Weaver, Haddington Townhouses Youth Program
The Community Site:
Haddington Townhouses, located in West Philadelphia, offers a Summer Youth Enrichment Program for youth aged 7 to 12.
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Physical Activity; Overweight and Obesity; Injury and Violence
Focus Areas: Injury and Violence Prevention; Oral Health; Physical Activity and Fitness; Nutrition and Overweight; Health Communication
The Project:
Modupe and Michael worked with the Haddington Townhouses staff to create a Summer Youth Enrichment Program for youth aged 7 through 12. The camp schedule was based on health-care theme days that focused on personal hygiene, oral hygiene and proper brushing and flossing techniques, nutrition, cardiovascular health, and duplex ultrasounds. The interns were responsible for motivating the youth throughout the day via educational games and various outdoor activities. This enrichment program included various educational field trips designed to enhance the learning experience. Modupe commented, “I have become more cognizant and considerate of some of the hardships individuals face on a daily basis.” Michael stated, “When entering the BTG internship, it was hard for me to imagine the hardships that the local communities struggle with on a daily basis … I have learned many valuable lessons.”
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Stop the Violence
Student Intern(s):
Michael Samodio, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Brian Tran, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Academic Preceptor(s):
Eugene Mochan, PhD, DO, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Community Preceptor(s):
George Riley, West Poplar Apartments, Summer Enrichment Program
The Community Site:
The West Poplar Apartments, located in North Philadelphia, provides a summer enrichment program for children aged 6 to 12. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Injury and Violence; Physical Activity; Substance Abuse
Focus Areas: Injury and Violence Prevention; Health Communication; Educational and Community-Based Programs; Physical Activity and Fitness; Substance Abuse
The Project:
Michael and Brian assisted the camp staff and provided a violence prevention program for the youth. The violence prevention project required engagement of the youth through group discussion and short oral, written and pictorial presentations. The sessions focused on four main areas: having the youth define violence, exploring the harm violence does to individuals and relationships; identifying how violence is connected in the social, home and school settings; naming the sources of violence (e.g., substance abuse); discussing strategies that help youth when confronted by violence; and, experiencing techniques to relieve pent up aggression. Brian noted, “This summer’s experience has greatly impacted my professional development. It has sparked my interest in serving an underserved urban community after graduation.” Michael stated, “My experiences with the children, and also with my preceptor and coworkers, have allowed me to grow and develop both professionally and personally.”
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Change Starts With Me: Norris Kids
Student Intern(s):
Inga Aikman, Temple University, School of Medicine
Rose Nguyen, Temple University, College of Health Professions, Department of Nursing
Alba Seda Morales, Temple University, College of Health Professions, Department of Physical Therapy Academic Preceptor(s):
Nancy Rothman, EdD, RN, Temple University, College of Health Professions, Department of Nursing
Community Preceptor(s):
Lisa Marie Gass, Norris Homes, Norris Kids Camp
The Community Site:
Norris Kids, a summer day camp for youth aged 5 to 13, is located at the Norris Homes in North Philadelphia and is supported by the Temple Health Connection (THC).
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Injury and Violence; Obesity and Overweight; Physical Activity
Focus Areas: Heart Disease and Stroke; Injury and Violence Prevention; Nutrition and Overweight; Oral Health; Physical Activity and Fitness
The Project:
Rose, Inga and Alba provided a day camp program for the children at Norris Homes. Through activities, discussions, media presentations and games, campers learned about how exercise, good nutrition, proper hygiene, high self-esteem and personal safety can impact their health now and in the future. Interns encouraged creativity through dance, visual art and creative writing. Children also had fun on field trips to the roller skating rink, the beach, amusement parks and the zoo. Rose reflected, “Patience and understanding have become my best friends. I have learned that creativity is the key to success in working with children. Expect the unexpected!” Inga noted, “One of the most valuable lessons I have taken away from this experience is the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to the health and well-being of the community. I never realized that so many sectors of society and the health community are intertwined in the delivery and access to care.” Alba said, “Learn from your client as much as you can … In that way, you can build a healthy relationship.”
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An Interactive Approach to Health and Wellness Education Student Intern(s):
Alaa Abou-Arab, University of Sciences in Philadelphia, Occupational Therapy Program
Himani Divatia, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Academic Preceptor(s):
Eugene Mochan, PhD, DO, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Community Preceptor(s):
Pilar Fernandez-Blakey, BS, To Our Children’s Future with Health, Lamberton Beacon
The Community Site:
To Our Children’s Future with Health’s Lamberton Beacon program provides a summer day camp for children aged 6 to 13 in the Overbrook community. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Injury and Violence; Overweight and Obesity; Physical Activity
Focus Areas: Educational and Community-Based Programs; Injury and Violence Prevention; Nutrition and Overweight; Oral Health; Physical Activity and Fitness
The Project:
Alaa and Himani served as camp counselors and health educators. The interns provided educational sessions on cardiovascular health, oral health, nutrition, physical fitness, and injury and violence prevention. Their sessions used games, posters, skits, and arts and crafts projects. The interns also developed educational games for the academics component of the summer camp, and joined the students and camp counselors on field trips to diverse community locations and recreational sites. With each activity, Alaa and Himani emphasized the importance of learning something new from every experience, the importance of conflict resolution, and the overall importance of good health and well-being. Alaa reflected, “The six weeks I spent at Lamberton-Beacon were very enjoyable. I am grateful for the opportunity to educate children and learn from them as well.” Himani noted, “I have truly enjoyed working with 8- and 9-year-old children because they are so eager to learn, and at the same time, they have also taught me about themselves and their communities.”
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Healthy Lifestyles for a Healthy Future
Student Intern(s):
Sadaf Kazmi, Drexel University College of Medicine
Philip Montemuro, Temple University, School of Medicine
Usha Saldanha, Drexel University College of Medicine
Sugirdhana Velpari, Drexel University College of Medicine Academic Preceptor(s):
Dianne Butera, MSW, Temple University, School of Medicine
Janet Moore, PsyD, Drexel University College of Medicine
Community Preceptor(s):
Arte Verbrugghe, North Light Community Center
The Community Site:
North Light Community Center, located in Manayunk, is a multiservice center that provides activities ranging from arts to employment services and recreation programs. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Mental Health; Overweight and Obesity; Physical Activity
Focus Areas: Heart Disease and Stroke; Nutrition and Overweight; Physical Activity and Fitness; Substance Abuse; Tobacco Use
The Project:
Philip, Sadaf, Sugirdhana, and Usha planned and executed various health-related activities with children of different age groups. They advocated for healthy living by addressing topics of mental health, physical activity, nutrition, and the importance of remaining substance-free. Activities included a trip to the firehouse, learning the food pyramid and preparing healthy snacks from each food group, lessons on substance abuse, cardiovascular health, oral hygiene, skits on bullying, a mural of their role models, and different games to encourage an active lifestyle. Sadaf commented, “I thoroughly enjoyed working with the children and staff of North Light. I feel that having this opportunity … will help me with my future career in medicine.” Sugir noted, “Working at North Light Community Center has been both an exciting and educational experience.” Philip stated, “I now feel very comfortable around children and know that I can relate to them on their level … I understand the developmental stages of children much better through my firsthand experiences.” Usha said, “The summer internship at North Light provided me with an incredible opportunity to work with children of various ages, backgrounds and educational levels. This experience has taught me the importance of empathy and patience, which I plan to incorporate into my future practice of medicine.”
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Bridging the Gaps in Community Support and Health Education
Student Intern(s):
Jatin Gupta, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Melissa Thompson, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Preceptor(s):
Eugene Mochan, PhD, DO, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Community Preceptor(s):
Carrie Fice, Wagner Beacon Center
The Community Site:
The Wagner Beacon Center provides a summer day camp that serves children (kindergarten through eighth grade) and families in the Ogontz and West Oak Lane areas of Philadelphia. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Injury and Violence; Tobacco Use; Overweight and Obesity
Focus Areas: Oral Health; Nutrition and Overweight; Heart Disease and Stroke; Injury and Violence Prevention; Tobacco Use
The Project:
Jatin and Melissa created a program to address several health topics including nutritional health, cardiovascular health, oral health, violence, substance abuse, and tobacco abuse. All of the sessions were interactive and integrated quizzes, games, hands-on skill-building activities, and discussions. The interns also assisted camp counselors in educational and recreational activities, and chaperoning field trips. A component of the program for older youth was visiting colleges and medical schools. Melissa reflected, “This experience has given me an insight into the lives of the people that I will one day be treating and this will truly help me care for my patients.” Jatin commented, “Having never lived in Philadelphia, this experience has greatly contributed to my understanding of Philadelphia communities … the children taught me many priceless lessons.”
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Promoting Healthy Habits for Healthy Lives
Student Intern(s):
Kunal Desai, Drexel University College of Medicine
Anand Nagori, Drexel University College of Medicine
Cassie Thao Pham, Drexel University College of Medicine Academic Preceptor(s):
Cheryl Hanau, MD, Drexel University College of Medicine
Community Preceptor(s):
Bronal Harris, Althea Gibson Community Education and Tennis Center
The Community Site:
The Althea Gibson Community Education and Tennis Center, located in North Central Philadelphia, works to help build strong minds and bodies through educational, arts and sports programs. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Injury and Violence; Physical Activity; Tobacco Use
Focus Areas: Injury and Violence Prevention; Heart Disease and Stroke; Nutrition and Overweight; Physical Activity and Fitness; Tobacco Use
The Project:
Anand, Kunal and Cassie collaborated with the Education and Tennis Center staff to implement a day camp. In addition to the camp’s daily activities, the interns prepared and led health education and promotion sessions focusing on diet and nutrition, drugs and alcohol, and cardiovascular health. Throughout the day, the interns assisted with tennis lessons, free time, and various other activities, such as chess, scrabble, and arts and crafts. Anand commented, “Over this summer, I have had the opportunity to teach and connect with urban youth, and I also learned a great deal from them.” Kunal said he spoke to the youth about “pertinent everyday issues.” He continued, “I talked to them about not smoking, doing drugs or drinking and also about resolving conflicts without violence.” Cassie noted, “I've learned quite a few things from this internship … I realized that without Bridging the Gaps, I would not have had the opportunity to see a community different from the one I live in … [one] that as a future physician I hope to serve.”
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Health Education
Student Intern(s):
Michelle DeLeon, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson Medical College
Rachel Dwyer, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson College of Health Professions, Department of Occupational Therapy Academic Preceptor(s):
Lara Weinstein, MD, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson Medical College
Community Preceptor(s):
Chris Whaley, MA, Project H.O.M.E., Community Restorative Practices
The Community Site:
Project H.O.M.E.’s Honickman Learning Center and Comcast Technology Labs, located in North Central Philadelphia, provide programs that integrate arts, technology and literacy initiatives. View Community Partner Web Site
Healthy People 2010:
Leading Health Indicators: Physical Activity; Overweight and Obesity; Tobacco Use; Substance Abuse; Injury and Violence
Focus Areas: Heart Disease and Stroke; Nutrition and Obesity; Oral Health; Physical Activity and Fitness; Tobacco Use; Substance Abuse; Health Communication
The Project:
Michelle and Rachel worked with the fourth grade class in the Honickman Learning Center’s children’s program. The interns’ health promotion project focused on nutrition, hygiene, heart health, drugs and tobacco, career opportunities, and making good choices. Various activities and projects were incorporated into the program, with a game at the end of the summer to evaluate how much the youth learned from the sessions. In addition, Michelle and Rachel organized a field trip to Lankenau Hospital to expose the youth to a health-care environment. Rachel commented, “Working at Honickman Learning Center this summer taught me how community integration can shape so many lives … My summer at Honickman definitely confirmed my interest in working in pediatrics when I graduate OT school.” Michelle said, “I realized that our health education project and mere presence at camp each day had a significant impact on the children when one of them pulled me aside and said, ‘Ms. Michelle, are you going to be a real doctor? I hope I can go to Jefferson one day and be a doctor too.’” |
"My internship … has affected me deeply. I have learned about the complexities of substance abuse and the struggles women face to remain clean. Working with a student from a discipline other than my own has helped me to view health issues from another perspective."
BTG Student Intern |
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