Elizabeth Rios, a UIC College of Nursing student, plans to decrease health disparities through awareness in a disadvantaged, uninsured Latino community of St. Joseph’s Church in Harvard, Illinois. The project will focus on empowering the Latino community by increasing awareness in the prevention of chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and depression. The final goal is to form a Health Ministry within the church to continue health screenings and become a resource to the parishioners. Elizabeth hopes to raise $6,000 to make a difference in the health of 200 families; providing 100 glucometers and 100 blood pressure machines to those at greatest risk. In addition, she would like to raise another $8,000 to renovate the basement of the parish center and the kitchen. The rooms in the basement will be used to give educational talks, and dieticians will use the kitchen to teach families how to prepare healthy meals. In order to serve this underserved population in great need, Elizabeth deeply appreciates any contributions that will aid in improving the quality of life of Latino families in the Harvard area.

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 2019, the Schweitzer Fellows for Life network launched Fellows Fest 2019, 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 17th, 6-8pm 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."