Andrea LeFlore is an occupational therapist in school for her doctorate at UIC. Many people with a history of homelessness face stigma from their community, are isolated from social contacts and experience worsening mental health upon transition to housing. Her project intends to partner with previously homeless women as co-leaders to explore their community, make a difference in their neighborhoods, build social support networks and strengthen a sense of purpose.The women are seeking $100 for guest speakers, $300 for water bottles symbolizing the group’s mission and sisterhood, $400 for healthy food at meetings and community picnics, and $120 for bus cards to get around the community.

The Schweitzer Fellowship is a year-long service learning program for graduate students in health-related professions who will design and implement innovative direct service projects aimed at improving the health and well-being of underserved Chicago area communities. Through their community projects and participation in a year-long program that includes mentoring support, monthly meetings, written reflection, and interprofessional collaboration, Schweitzer Fellows are developing the skills and confidence needed to become Leaders in Service—professionals who will remain dedicated to public service and to creating change.

In the summer of 2018, the Schweitzer Fellows for Life network launched Fellows Fest 2018, a campaign to help support our current Fellows' projects. Each of the Fellows has created a "wish list" of supplies and resources that will help them realize their service project goals. We also invite you to join us for our Fellows Fest event taking place on September 11 in Chicago. Click here for more info and to RSVP.

The Chicago Areas Schweitzer Fellowship is a program of Health & Medicine Policy Research Group. Your Summer Fest donation will appear on your credit card statement at "Health & Medicine."