Ryan Mak, a medical student at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, will partner with the North Lawndale Kinship Initiative to create a sports strength and conditioning training camp for youth living in areas marked by violence and diminished life expectancy. These camps will provide youth a safe place to play and train for their sport while acting as a vehicle to promote healthy lifestyles that combat chronic disease and values that develop personal character and resiliency. At these camps, youth will be surrounded by mentors and given a space to reflect and discuss how sports can be used to build kinship and stop violence.

Ryan hopes to raise $5,000 for training equipment, nutritious meals, and various supplies needed during sessions.

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."