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Angie Carder |
Angie Carder, a UNMC master’s of public health student, organized a free health fair for under served students and their families. The pilot program is her capstone/service learning project with support from RHEN/AHEC program office.
“This is truly a unique idea,” said Becky Tines, assistant director of RHEN. “Angie has taken her passion for public health concerns and inspired others to join her in community service.”
The “Healthy Families” event will be held Jan. 31 from 3:45 to 5 p.m. at Sherman Elementary School at 5618 N. 14th Ave. in Omaha.
UNMC medical students will conduct free health screenings, including blood pressure and body mass index readings. UNMC pharmacy students will provide prescription drug consultations. Information about healthy lifestyles and free health products will be available at several activity booths. Spanish language translators also will be available to assist families.
“This is a great opportunity for UNMC students and area health organizations to get involved in the community,” Carder said. “It is our hope that this can turn into an annual event where students can receive health information and chart their progress towards healthier lives.”
The fair is funded by a grant RHEN/AHEC received from the Midwest Consortium for Service Learning in Higher Education. Recipients of the grant are encouraged to create a service activity that reflects Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and teachings.
In 1994, Congress passed legislation encouraging citizens to transform the spirit of Dr. King into community service that solves social problems. Each year, hundreds of Day of Service events take place across the United States.
“By participating in such an event, we are working to help others and strengthen our community,” Carder said.