Itzel Lopez-Hinojosa, a University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine student, is developing and implementing a two-part curriculum at Holy Cross—Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Back of the Yards. For the first cohort, Itzel will be working in partnership with Casa Romero. A group of ten children, 3rd and 4th graders, will participate in different lesson plans covering nutritional knowledge, exercise, and a cooking activity. The second cohort is focusing on empowering young female mentees in Girls Reflection. These women will participate in several workshops around self-esteem, relationships, and mental health. Both groups of students will also have the opportunity to go on field trips. Itzel hopes to raise $2,000 for exercise and nutrition equipment, arts and crafts supplies, and field trip opportunities.

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."