Community Partner: The Caring Place
The Caring Place was established in 1982 by a coalition of churches serving Golf Manor, Kennedy Heights, Pleasant Ridge, and Silverton. Their goal is to help those who struggle financially, emotionally, or spiritually to develop a more stable lifestyle by providing a variety of services. Clients come to the Caring Place to select from a monthly allowance of food and household products from the choice pantry. They can also select clothes from the clothing room for themselves and family members. When funds are available, help is given for laundry, bus passes, and occasionally rent. The Caring Place has had a significant impact on the community. With 4,000+ hours of service by volunteers, they have served over 500 families in need and provided Christmas toys to over 200 children.
About Sandy
My name is Sandy and I was born and raised in Cincinnati, OH. I went to The Ohio State University for college (go Bucks!) where I majored in English Literature. Growing up, I never had a clear idea of what my job or career would be. But throughout high school and college I tried finding activities that felt meaningful to me and doing more of it. In college, I volunteered at a free clinic and saw what it meant to pursue a career intertwined with service and advocacy. After graduating, I worked as a research assistant on projects related to health services and social determinants of health before starting medical school here at UCCOM. Outside of school, I love going on a long run with my friends on the weekend.
In my journey to and through medical school, I have always known I wanted to pursue a career in primary care. This course will help me develop the skills in advocacy that I will take with me into my role as a physician. I aspire to be a physician and advocate who leverages creative community partnerships to address the causes of health inequities faced by underserved populations. I aim to lead community-engaged research that informs how we understand and implement clinical and public health interventions to improve patient outcomes.