Asylum Pride House

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Organizing Health and Wellness Events for LGBTQ+ Asylum Seekers in Philadelphia

 

Student Interns:

Zoë Boston, Drexel University College of Medicine

Nicole Ru, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Academic Preceptor:

Homaira Azim, MD, PhD, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Community Preceptors:

Louisa Benatovich, BS, Asylum Pride House

Victoria Sirois, MA, Asylum Pride House

 

Community Site:

Asylum Pride House provides initial resources, case management, and long-term transitional housing to LGBTQ+ asylum seekers in Philadelphia. It works with local and national organizations to provide wraparound support to clients in multiple areas, including immigration, housing, and legal services. In addition to these resources, Asylum Pride House organizes activities and outings for clients through the Wellness for Recently Arrived Persons Program (WRAPP) to support the emotional well-being and community integration of LGBTQ+ asylum seekers. Clients who participate in WRAPP also become eligible for free individual therapy sessions with local providers.

 

Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student interns took the lead on WRAPP activities this summer, working on a mix of educational sessions and community outings for Asylum Pride House clients. For the LGBTQ+ Immigrant Community Health Day, they reached out to multiple LGBTQ+ health/wellness organizations to table or speak at the event, and several immigration organizations also helped advertise the event to LGBTQ+ immigrants not affiliated with Asylum Pride House. They also coordinated with M&T Bank to host a financial literacy workshop for clients and organized a pottery class and a dance class. In between WRAPP planning, the interns accompanied clients on shopping trips and updated contacts for organizations in Philadelphia that Asylum Pride House has partnered with previously.

 

Reflections:

Zoë Boston: “I’ve greatly enjoyed my time working with the folks at Asylum Pride House. I have learned so much about the asylum and immigration processes, as well as why we need nonprofits like Asylum Pride House to do the work that they do. I want to serve the LGBTQ+ community in my future practice as a physician, and my experiences working with clients and organizing the immigrant community health day will help me achieve this goal. Learning what resources are available in the community and how to advocate for our clients to get the resources they deserve have been invaluable experiences. Before this summer, I had a vague idea about how to access resources for the LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities. Now, I have a much more tangible way to help my future patients. I am inspired by our community preceptors every single day, and I can only hope that I will be able to serve my patients in the same way they serve their clients.”

 

Nicole Ru: “Through my experience at Asylum Pride House this summer, I’ve learned about the importance of wraparound services for LGBTQ+ asylum seekers and the resources available through different services in Philadelphia. I’ve also seen the impact of federal funding cuts this summer for many of the organizations that our site partners with, which illustrates the tenuous nature of support systems and safety networks in the community. Despite the uncertainty of the current climate, working with Asylum Pride House has been so fulfilling and inspiring — I’ve gained deeper insight into the asylum process in the United States, connected with multiple LGBTQ+ and immigration organizations in Philadelphia, and listened to our clients’ stories and experiences. It’s been such a rewarding experience, and I’ve had so much fun working with Victoria, Louisa, and Zoë over the past few weeks. I’m grateful to everyone at our site for giving us the opportunity to learn from them this summer, and I hope to carry this knowledge with me as I move forward into my career in healthcare to best serve my community and patients.”

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Broad Street Love

Addressing Deep Poverty Through Radical Hospitality: Mail, Clothing, & Front Desk

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Student Interns:

Yaya Chen, Drexel University College of Medicine

Julie Gauthier, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health

Christopher Haddad, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Academic Preceptor:
Steven J. Peitzman, MD, FACP, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Community Preceptor:
Dianne Johnson, MPA, Broad Street Love

Community Site:
Broad Street Love, formerly known as Broad Street Ministry, is a community-based, nonprofit organization that addresses deep poverty and homelessness through radical hospitality. It aims to uphold the dignity of individuals through a diverse range of trauma-informed, person-centered services, including meal programs, social services, medical services, legal services, the distribution of personal care products, a clothing boutique, and a mailroom for guests to receive their mail. Broad Street Love is committed to fostering community and serving its guests with radical hospitality. https://broadstreetlove.org/

 

Team’s Experience:
At Broad Street Love, the Bridging the Gaps student interns helped run the front desk, which was needed due to staff changes, and prepared an orientation binder with resources and guidelines to assist with future changes in front desk management. The interns also helped Broad Street Love organize and coordinate its clothing closet and hygiene services, which included creating hygiene kits for guests and helping guests create a personalized outfit from donated pieces. Additionally, the interns spent time in the on-site mailroom which consisted of sorting and distributing mail to the more than 4,000 guests who keep mailboxes at Broad Street Love.

Reflections:
Yaya Chen: “Working at Broad Street Love this summer was an eye-opening and empowering experience that allowed me to learn more about what community health means in Philadelphia. I appreciated getting to provide direct, hand-to-hand care to guests through giving out mail in the mailroom and interacting with guests at the clothing boutique. Witnessing firsthand how people in Philadelphia are confronting homelessness and poverty, I learned how to provide care and communication with greater courage and understanding of not only what the guests are dealing with in that moment but also everything they carry with them. My experience here strengthened my own dedication to community-based medicine and reinforced the value of compassion and integrity as a way to confront social determinants of health. I will always carry with me Broad Street Love’s mission of treating all of its guests with radical hospitality.”
 

Julie Gauthier: “Working at Broad Street Love taught me how to serve people experiencing deep poverty through radical hospitality and trauma-informed interactions. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment when you’re interacting with dozens of guests every day and forget to remember that everyone has their own story that shapes their interactions. My supervisors and the other volunteers modeled radical hospitality in a memorable way, and I will definitely take that with me after I graduate.”

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Christopher Haddad: “My time at Broad Street Love has been unique. My years of experience working as a registered nurse in Philadelphia, especially in the emergency department, prepared me well for running the front desk at Broad Street Love and working with their de-escalation team. This summer, I learned to field questions from guests and provide resources and information I never knew existed. I spent time getting to know these guests, their circumstances, and their life stories. I am grateful for these relationships that have been cultivated and hope to volunteer at Broad Street Love in the future to see these familiar faces. The experiences of my summer provide me with a unique perspective and will inform my future practice as a physician.”

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Center for Nonviolence and Social Justice

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Center for Nonviolence and Social Justice, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health

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Student Intern:
Radwa Nahla, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health

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Academic Preceptor:
Kristen Ryczak, MD, Drexel University College of Medicine

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Community Preceptor:
Shanise Weatherbee, MA, LPC, Center for Nonviolence and Social Justice

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Community Site:
Based at Drexel University, the Center for Nonviolence and Social Justice (CNSJ) is a trauma-informed organization dedicated to addressing violence and promoting healing through community-based, restorative approaches. CNSJ’s Community Outreach Team (COT) program engages youth aged 14 to 24 who have been impacted by violence and trauma, offering them holistic, culturally sensitive support and connections to care through credible messengers with lived experience.

https://drexel.edu/cnsj/

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Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student intern contributed to improving program documentation by updating the COT survey form to better capture client information, transferring collected data into the internal tracking system, and auditing client records to ensure accuracy and compliance. The intern also assisted in closing completed cases in the team’s database software. In addition, the intern participated in regular staff meetings that offered valuable insight into the COT program’s operations and its role in supporting youth affected by violence and trauma.

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Reflections:
Radwa Nahla: “This experience deepened my understanding of trauma-informed care, community-based interventions, and the essential role of frontline outreach workers in advancing public health equity. Engaging with COT members, many of whom bring lived experience, taught me the importance of empathy, respect, and community trust in healing work. This placement has shaped my long-term commitment to integrating community voice into research and practice, especially in violence prevention and youth mental health."

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Clean Air Council

Clean Air Council’s 2025 Trail Program Summer Internship
 

Student Interns:

Alexander Chong, Drexel University College of Medicine

Teresa Hong, Drexel University College of Medicine
 

Academic Preceptor:

Kathryn Stroup, MD, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Drexel University College of Medicine
 

Community Preceptors:

William Fraser, Clean Air Council

Russell Zerbo, Clean Air Council

Community Site:
The Clean Air Council is a long-standing environmental health advocacy organization dedicated to protecting communities — especially Black and brown neighborhoods — from the harms of pollution and environmental injustice. Founded in 1967 by regional health associations, the Council began by promoting clean air awareness and pushing for stronger fuel regulations. Today, it continues its mission through public education, community organizing, and holding policymakers accountable. By promoting science-based policies and ensuring the enforcement of environmental laws, the Council empowers residents to advocate for a healthier, more equitable environment for all.

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Team’s Experience:

The Bridging the Gaps student interns contributed to improving the infrastructure and longevity of Cobbs Creek trail by pioneering a recently developed app called Trail Maintenance Toolkit (TMT). TMT is a mobile app that enables users to document, geolocate, and assess the condition of trail infrastructure. This tool allows for accurate and comprehensive tracking of maintenance needs. In addition, the interns created blogs and pamphlets to promote public awareness around trail safety and wellness.

 

Reflections:
Alexander Chong: “Working with the Clean Air Council’s Trail Program taught me to see green spaces not just as recreation areas, but as vital health resources and reflections of Philadelphia’s complex history of segregation, resilience, and community. Our primary task was to document and assess trail conditions, but in doing so, we discovered a hidden sanctuary in Cobbs Creek. Weekly trail visits gave me a peaceful start to the day and opened the door to conversations with fellow trail-goers, offering insight into the city’s evolving social fabric. I came to understand that trail maintenance is more than upkeep — it’s a form of care that demands attention, revision, and a commitment to community well-being. This experience has shaped how I advocate for public green spaces as a future healthcare provider, outdoor enthusiast, and a proud Philadelphian.”
 

Teresa Hong: “My internship with the Clean Air Council was a powerful introduction to the intersection between environmental justice and public health. By participating in a trail maintenance project, I learned about the multifaceted benefits of green spaces, including their impact on physical activity, social well-being, and neurodevelopment. Through conversations with residents, I also learned about the historical and systemic factors that have led to underfunded trails in underserved neighborhoods. Seeing firsthand the disparities in trail conditions enhanced my understanding of the social determinants of health in the Philadelphia region and their connection to chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, which disproportionately affect marginalized communities. This experience taught me lessons that extend beyond the scope of medical school and will shape how I approach patient care with a broader, more informed perspective.”

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College of Physicians of Philadelphia, Mütter Museum 

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Mütter Museum: Crime Busters 

 

Student Interns:

Van Anh Tran, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine
Michelle Wang, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Academic Preceptors:

Hillary R. Bogner, MD, MSCE, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine

Donald L. Boyer, MD, MSEd, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Renee Kottenhahn, MD, FAAP, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Community Preceptor:

Sara Ray, PhD, Mütter Museum 

 

Community Site:

The Mütter Museum, located in Center City, invites visitors to explore the fascinating history of medicine through its beautifully preserved collections of anatomical specimens, medical instruments, and models, presented in the style of a 19th-century cabinet museum. Through these displays, visitors are encouraged to reflect on the complexity and resilience of the human body, and to discover how medical understanding and care have evolved over time. 

 

Team’s Experience:

The Bridging the Gaps student interns assisted community preceptors, including staff from the Mütter’s education department and the senior director of interpretation and engagement, in developing academic lesson plans on forensic science topics. The curriculum will culminate in a comprehensive “Crime Busters” competition for students, after the course is completed. The curriculum will be implemented in the upcoming academic year for the two after-school programs, Out4STEM and Girls One Diaspora. Held once a week at the Mütter Museum, Out4Stem and Girls One are after-school programs that teach science to openly queer high school students and female students from the African diaspora. The interns also revised currently instated lesson plans, including those the Mütter uses to teach about antibiotics, microbes, and bone identification. 

 

Reflections:

Van Anh Tran and Michelle Wang: “This summer was a rewarding experience to be able to create a curriculum from the ground up, based on a popular and interesting science topic. Even though we will not be able to fully implement the course during our time at the Mütter, it was valuable to establish relationships and collaborate with the museum educators. This project encouraged us to be creative and think about new ways to teach students about science, including engaging them through storytelling and speaking to them as if they were real investigators. We hope that the students who participate in Crime Busters will be inspired to explore potential careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.” 

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Depaul USA

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To Listen and to Learn: Experiences with Individuals Facing Housing Insecurity and Substance Use Disorder

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Student Intern:
Sydney Fiore, Drexel University College of Medicine

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Academic Preceptor:
Steven Peitzman, MD, FACP, Drexel University College of Medicine

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Community Preceptor:
Suzannah Hartzell, Depaul USA

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Community Site:
Depaul USA opened its first program in Philadelphia in 2009 and now runs five programs: a recovery house, supportive housing for individuals with chronic health conditions and a history of housing instability, transitional housing for college students experiencing homelessness, rapid rehousing, and a social enterprise that offers employment opportunities for residents and graduates of the recovery program. Depaul aims to provide comprehensive services, including housing, case management, financial assistance, and employment assistance, to help individuals transition out of homelessness and into lives of greater stability and fulfillment. 

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Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student intern rotated among three Depaul USA locations: St. Raymond’s House, St. Joseph’s House, and Depaul House. St. Raymond’s provides housing for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness; St. Joseph’s provides housing for college students facing housing insecurity; and Depaul House is a recovery house for men with substance use disorder. At St. Raymond’s House, the intern organized the food pantry, attended interviews for new residents, went on walks with residents, and attended a field trip with the residents. At St. Joseph’s House, the intern made a résumé template for the students to follow and assisted the residents with job and scholarship applications, credit score requests, and medical billing and insurance issues. At Depaul House, the intern wrote progress notes about the residents by speaking with them about their recovery progress and well-being.

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Reflections:
Sydney Fiore: “The Bridging the Gaps internship at Depaul House was an excellent, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me to become acquainted with a population that I otherwise would not get to speak with in a nonclinical setting. Prior to this internship, I had never worked with people suffering from substance use disorder and facing housing insecurity. Over the course of the summer, I created many connections with the residents I met through our time spent together, and I witnessed the barriers that they face in accessing healthcare, finding jobs, and obtaining housing. Just listening to each of their stories taught me so much about humanity, community, and love. This experience has deeply affected how I view myself as a future healthcare provider, and I am so grateful that I was able to have this opportunity.”

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Drexel Food Lab

 

The Joy of Cooking

 

Student Interns:

Samuel Cho, Drexel University College of Medicine

Jennifer Zhang, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Academic Preceptor:

Emily Spengler, MD, Drexel University College of Medicine, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children

 

Community Preceptors:

Jonathan Deutsch, PhD, CRC, CHE, Drexel Food Lab
Rachel Sherman, Drexel Food Lab

 

Community Site:

Do good. Feed better. Keep going. The Drexel Food Lab is a faculty-mentored interdisciplinary food product design and culinary innovation research lab solving real-world problems in sustainability, health promotion, and access. Its members apply culinary art and science to improve the health of people, the planet, and economies. In doing so, they not only develop new food products and menu items with entrepreneurs and industry, nonprofit, and government partners, but also develop the Food Lab’s flagship “product”: graduates across disciplines who are poised to improve the food system.

 

Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student interns were actively involved in multiple areas of the Food Lab, including product development and focus group testing, client meetings and presentations, and nutrition curriculum development. This year’s focus concerned value-added food product recipe development as well as product sensory survey analysis. The former involved testing multiple rounds of recipes in a commercial kitchen, while the latter involved data parsing and organization from Qualtrics. Interns also volunteered with some of Philadelphia’s community food and garden organizations, such as Las Parcelas, to gain a better understanding of food resources and needs in the community.

 

Reflections:

Samuel Cho and Jennifer Zhang: “Our time at Drexel’s Food Lab offered us a chance to step back and seek clarity from the many lectures offered by Bridging the Gaps. In this political climate, it seems like everything we knew to be stable has come undone; it is a period in history where hope often feels lost. As medical students and aspiring physicians, the act of creating food and finding nourishment during our summer break afforded us a strangely indispensable opportunity for meditation upon the state of the world and its repercussions for our futures. The art of cooking, which offers challenges and pleasures alike, helped to ground us in this strange new world.”

 

 

The Drexel Kindergarten Bridge Program

 

Facilitating a Successful Start: The Kindergarten Bridge Program

 

Student Interns:

Toluwani Akinselure, Drexel University College of Medicine

Audrey Lee, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Academic Preceptor:

Tariem Burroughs, PhD, MSEd, MSODL, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health

 

Community Preceptor:

Andrea DiMola, MS, Drexel University School of Education

 

Community Site:
The Drexel Kindergarten Bridge (K-Bridge) program is offered to rising kindergarten students at Samuel Powel Elementary School in underserved West Philadelphia. The five-week summer program aims to facilitate the transition into kindergarten for children and their families by promoting skills necessary for success in school. Through collaboration with various community organizations, including Playworks, Eat Right Philly, Greener Partners, and the Dornsife Community Garden, the Drexel Kindergarten Bridge program provides children with a wide range of educational, wellness, and social learning at no cost to their families, with all meals provided.

 

Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student interns assisted the K-Bridge program by completing administrative tasks such as educational assessments and directly leading and facilitating many fun and educational activities. In addition to arrivals, dismissals, daily snacks, mealtimes, and recess, the BTG interns led daily arts and crafts, games, play-based learning activities, mindfulness activities, and weekly water playtime to promote the development of social, emotional, and fine motor skills, along with creative expression. Interns also led weekly field trips to the Dornsife Community Garden, teaching the children about gardening and plant life, nutrition, teamwork and collaboration, and living in community with others.

 

Reflections:

Toluwani Akinselure: “Working at K-Bridge has been the highlight of my summer. Over the past several weeks, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to the early education of a diverse and wonderful group of children. Watching them grow more curious, confident, and excited about learning was incredibly rewarding. I also had the pleasure of working alongside passionate educators who created a nurturing, engaging environment that emphasized both academic and emotional development. This experience deepened my appreciation for the importance of early childhood education. Supporting the children as they learned to express themselves, manage emotions, and build relationships taught me valuable lessons in patience, communication, and empathy. I will carry these insights — and the joy I felt being part of their journey — with me for years to come.”

 

Audrey Lee: “My time working with the K-Bridge program has been a wonderful experience. It was so great to get to know each kid and their unique personalities while helping them learn about phonics, math, art, nutrition, and social-emotional skills. I have formed a special connection with each child, and it has been such a pleasure to watch them all come out of their shells and become more confident in their own abilities in a school setting. I have learned a lot from working with these children, and I know that these childcare skills will help me in my future endeavors as an aspiring pediatrician. Every day, I watch them become increasingly bright, curious, cooperative, playful, and generous. I know that each student will excel in kindergarten once they start in the fall, and it has brought me so much joy to be able to help them prepare for school. What an amazing accomplishment it is to be able to facilitate learning and fun for children.”

 

 

Drexel University Community Wellness HUB

 

Health, Education, and Wellness Intern

 

Student Intern:
Matthew (Heath) Patterson, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Academic Preceptor:
James Buehler, MD, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health

 

Community Preceptor:
Monica Harmon, MSN, MPH, RN, Drexel University Community Wellness HUB

 

Community Site:
“Come HUB with me!” With a name chosen by the residents of West Philadelphia, the Community Wellness HUB serves as a welcoming, nonjudgmental safe space for residents of Powelton Village and Mantua to heal, unite, bridge. The HUB is dedicated to improving health, advancing health equity, and enhancing quality of life for West Philadelphians. In addition to offering health screenings and preventive care services, the HUB also hosts health and wellness programming as well as community outreach and education events — all free of charge. By fostering a unique sense of cultural awareness and sensitivity, the HUB advances community engagement through partnership, empowering and encouraging West Philadelphians to assume active roles in individual and community health. In doing so, the HUB establishes the organizational foundation for a sustainable public health safety net, one capable of addressing the identified social influences of health through ongoing collaboration with the residents of West Philadelphia, academic institutions, students, and an interdisciplinary team of healthcare providers.

 

Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student intern collaborated with the Community Wellness HUB’s clinical staff and health education program directors to promote health and health equity by engaging West Philadelphia residents in individual and group environments. The intern supported clinical services by providing blood pressure checks, blood glucose monitoring, BMI measurements, and COVID testing, while also assisting with patient-specific care coordination through referrals to primary care, behavioral and mental health, sexual and reproductive health, violence prevention and victim support, resource access, and opportunities for employment and skill development. In addition to facilitating survey administration, community outreach, and wellness program logistics for small group sessions, including art and music therapy, the intern launched a recurring qigong class. Additionally, the intern also partnered with Ausome Ambassadors, an enrichment program for young adults with autism spectrum disorder, to lead an adapted qigong class tailored to participant needs. Last, the intern partnered with Lazarex Cancer Foundation to co-host a virtual community workshop called “The Skin I’m In: Sun Safety,” which focused on skin cancer prevention and education, including addressing myths about skin cancer in people with darker skin tones.

 

Reflections:

Matthew (Heath) Patterson: “The Community Wellness HUB graciously welcomed me into their community, offering the opportunity to engage directly with residents of Powelton Village and Mantua. Working alongside HUB staff, I supported efforts to address community health priorities through small-group wellness programming, care coordination, and outreach. In these shared healing spaces, I witnessed how trust and continuity empower meaningful health conversations —especially when rooted in mutual respect. While I often emphasized the physical and emotional benefits of qigong, I came to more deeply value how these gatherings fostered relationships through presence and consistency. This experience reshaped my vision for my future role as a family medicine physician. I hope to create a clinical space that integrates holistic and community-centered care, where practitioners such as dietitians, acupuncturists, osteopathic providers, and physicians collaborate to address not just illness, but the broader contexts of isolation and disconnection.”

 

 

Educators for Education

 

Pathways to Success: Guiding Philadelphia Youth Toward Professional and Personal Excellence

 

Student Interns:

Holly Akabuo, Drexel University College of Medicine

Zaria Beckley, Drexel University College of Medicine

Michael Jin, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine

Sydney Lam, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine

Yashvi Shah, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Academic Preceptors:

Abby Quinn Peterson, DMD, MPH, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine

Elizabeth Powell, DDS, MPH, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine

Kristen Ryczak, MD, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Community Preceptor:

Anthony Singleton, President/Executive Officer, Educators for Education

 

Community Site:

Educators for Education (E4E) works with youth across the city of Philadelphia to provide educational services, professional development/training, advocacy, and social support. E4E offers a wide array of programs and services, including mentoring, summer camps, tutoring, job and career coaching, professional development, and more.

https://www.educators4education.org/

 

Team’s Experience:

The Bridging the Gaps student interns assisted E4E with various projects, primarily focusing on the development and management of a healthcare and STEM career camp for 20 male high school students and recent graduates, as well as a job readiness and career development camp for six female high school students and recent graduates. The interns delivered presentations and led interactive workshops on academic and professional topics such as résumé writing, interview skills, professional communication, and public speaking, and more. In collaboration with the Philadelphia District Attorney’s office, the interns led discussions on emotional regulation, communication styles, and public speaking for local youth. They also played a key role in organizing a youth job fair, reaching out to vendors across Philadelphia to participate in the event. Additionally, the interns wrote articles highlighting E4E partnerships for inclusion in a community newsletter and provided ongoing support for other E4E programming.

 

Reflections:

Holly Akabuo, Zaria Beckley, Michael Jin, Sydney Lam, and Yashvi Shah: “Partnering with E4E to empower teenagers across Philadelphia to pursue their academic and professional aspirations has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Over the course of just seven weeks, we have built meaningful relationships with these young individuals while equipping them with essential skills that will support their future success. At the same time, we have gained invaluable lessons of patience, empathy, adaptability, and collaboration — qualities that we will continue to demonstrate to patients and professional peers as future healthcare providers. We are immensely proud of the growth, engagement, and resilience the students have shown, and we look forward to seeing all that they accomplish in their academic and career journeys.”

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Frankie’s World

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Frankie’s World Summer Camp 

Student Interns:

Alyssa Lacava, Drexel University, College of Nursing and Health Professions, Creative Arts in Therapy

Olivia Trotto, Drexel University College of Medicine 
 

Academic Preceptor:

Kelley White, MD, Drexel University College of Medicine 

Community Preceptor:

Conny Lockwood, Frankie’s World

Community Site:
Frankie’s World is a nonprofit medical day care center and preschool for children with medical needs in the Philadelphia area. Frankie’s World is staffed by a group of skilled nurses, energetic teachers, and kind aides who all work together to provide comprehensive medical care and engaging and thoughtful early childhood education. This care encourages physical, social, and educational development throughout early childhood. Frankie’s World is a safe and accepting place for children of all walks of life to play, learn, and grow together. 

https://www.frankiesworld.com/

Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student interns assisted staff at Frankie’s World in planning, organizing, and leading a day care class and a summer camp for children with medical needs. Each day, the interns planned and led educational lessons, craft activities, and group games for children aged 5 to 10. The interns incorporated a range of activities to help the students practice both gross and fine motor skills and to encourage their social and emotional development. The interns used adaptable and kid-friendly techniques to promote a welcoming and exciting environment for all children.

 

Reflections:

Alyssa Lacava: “Being at Frankie’s World has taught me a lot about what it means to work with 2- and 3-year-old children of varying physical and developmental abilities. I learned how to be attentive to each individual child. Gradually I was able to see each child’s personality, cleverness, and creativity shine through as I was able to attune myself to their thoughts, feelings, and needs, which were not always communicated verbally. Each child experienced food, art, song, dance, and play with their own individual flair. Additionally, I learned what it means to communicate and work within a multidisciplinary health setting. I communicated about schedules and roles with various speech therapists, physical therapists, nurses, administrators, and other professionals. I was very impressed with this day care facility and all that it does for the children who require its services. Through this experience I was able to reflect on what it means to accommodate individuals with varying abilities. Places like Frankie’s World are crucial because traditional day cares and preschools often do not have the staff or resources necessary to give these kids adequate care. This space allows for them to get an academically and socially enriching experience where they otherwise may have been isolated due to structural and systemic ableism in many public and educational spaces. I hope to take this experience with me by prioritizing physical and mental accommodations into my own practice.”

 

Olivia Trotto: “Frankie’s World is a place where kids with medical and developmental needs get to just be kids. I spent the summer working in the camp program, and one of the first things I noticed was how much joy and personality each child brings. Whether they’re playing tag, dressing up, or dancing around the room, the focus here is on letting kids connect, have fun, and feel seen, not just managing their medical needs. Being around the kids every day reminded me how important that kind of space is. I also learned a lot just by watching how the staff interacted with them: the patience, creativity, and flexibility it takes to create a safe and fun environment. There were moments when I wasn’t sure what the right approach was, especially coming from a hospital background, but over time I learned to slow down, pay attention, and just be present. This experience has made me think more about what inclusion really means, and how small changes in our environment and attitude can make a big difference. I feel lucky to have been part of a place that values every child’s individuality and lets them shine.”

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Gaudenzia Philly House

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Health and Healing in Reentry

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Student Interns:

Casey Baughan, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health

Lindsey Dowd, Drexel University School of Medicine
 

Academic Preceptor:

James Buehler, MD, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health
 

Community Preceptors:

Agnes Brown, Gaudenzia Philly House

Amanda Jernigan, LCSW, Gaudenzia Philly House
 

Community Site:
Gaudenzia Philly House is a transitional housing facility for formerly incarcerated women, offering mental health, substance use, and reentry services. Gaudenzia Philly House is funded by the Department of Corrections and regularly houses between 20 and 30 women. Gaudenzia aims to provide residents with the treatment, support, resources, and life skills they need to reintegrate into society.

https://www.gaudenzia.org/location/philly-house/

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Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student interns assisted residents with their personal, medical, and professional goals as they transitioned back into society post-incarceration. The interns led group sessions on a variety of health topics and created and distributed educational materials at each session. The interns connected residents to outside programs, coordinated and accompanied residents to medical appointments, and explored resources and interventions to help them with medical, professional, and housing needs. The interns also facilitated group activities focused on group morale and mental health.
 

Reflections:
Casey Baughan: “Working at Gaudenzia this summer has allowed me to learn about the unique strengths and challenges of a population that often does not get much attention. Working daily with the staff and residents at Gaudenzia provided me with important insights into the barriers that impact female reentrants. Reentry is an extensive and mentally draining process, which involves acquiring a new ID and medical insurance, navigating social services, establishing new healthcare providers, and more, all while adjusting to new living conditions, a new location, and changes in society. Many of the systems in place do not make it easy for reentrants to get the information and resources they need, with most processes requiring extensive phone calls, several appointments, and lengthy waiting periods. There are limited services and programs in Pennsylvania that serve women, especially those with mental health needs. Building relationships with the women here and navigating their needs firsthand has allowed me to understand the extensive challenges and difficult circumstances faced by reentrants. The residents here have been open and trusting of me and allowed me the opportunity to learn from and connect with them. I have been forever inspired by their patience and resilience in the face of constant obstacles and setbacks and hope to take all that I have learned from them with me in my future public health endeavors.”

 

Lindsey Dowd: “Spending the summer at Gaudenzia was an enriching experience as we had the opportunity to witness the day-to-day lives of residents and staff, gaining insight into the challenges and strengths of women navigating reentry. We learned a lot about resilience, identity, and the societal influences that shape self-perception and personal growth, while gaining firsthand experience navigating the health systems and social services of Philadelphia. While facilitating health and life skills education groups, we practiced organizing and presenting information in an effective and digestible way. One of the most significant takeaways from this experience was recognizing the invisibility of this population. We came to encounter many obstacles these women faced in accessing basic resources and care and learned how most services in the state were specific to formerly incarcerated men’s needs as opposed to those of women. Gaudenzia Philly House currently serves as the sole residential mental health facility in Philadelphia dedicated specifically to formerly incarcerated women. I leave this experience grateful for the relationships I have grown over the past six weeks and a profound admiration for the women at Gaudenzia and the strength they maintain in the face of some of life’s greatest challenges.”

 

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Girls Inc.

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Empowering Girls to Be Smart, Strong, and Bold: A Summer of Learning, Reflection, and Positivity

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Student Interns:

Lauren Fader, Drexel University, College of Nursing and Health Professions, Creative Arts in Therapy

Rujula Upasani, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Academic Preceptor:
Renee Kottenhahn, MD, FAAP, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Drexel University College of Medicine

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Community Preceptors:
Cherice Gordon, Girls Inc.
Stacey Moonjeli, Girls Inc.

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Community Site:
Using a whole-girl approach to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold, Girls Inc. of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey serves more than 3,000 girls annually. Through Girls Inc. young girls can develop their confidence, build on their strengths, and take bold risks through evidence-based programs, mentoring, and healthy relationships, in a safe and proactive environment with other young women. Girls Inc. equips young girls to navigate barriers and face challenges while also promoting health, wellness, independence, and opportunities for girls everywhere.

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Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student interns had the opportunity to mentor and educate young girls on key topics that promote confidence, health, and future success. The interns led lessons on the harmful effects of vaping, explored human anatomy, and promoted physical wellness through fun and engaging fitness classes. They also supported healthy body image and self-esteem through open discussions, journaling, and reflection. As part of STEM career exploration, the students were introduced to exciting paths in finance, artificial intelligence, business, and medicine, encouraging them to dream big and think boldly about their futures. The interns grew as leaders while making a lasting impact on the lives of the girls they served.

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Reflections:
Lauren Fader: “My summer at Girls Inc. has been full of rich learning experiences. I have been able to support the students as both a mentor and leader while simultaneously learning new things from them every day. Engaging in a range of STEM-based activities has been effective in showcasing the students’ ambition to learn and mesmerizing resourcefulness. The most resonant takeaway from this summer experience has been the importance of optimism, joy, and laughter despite facing challenges or adversity. Witnessing friendships blossom through collaboration and teamwork truly demonstrates the Girls Inc. mission of empowering girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Moving forward into my career as a dance/movement therapist, I plan to remember the connections I have made with the girls and continue to encourage approaching all community members with authenticity, positivity, and trust.”

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Rujula Upasani: “My summer has been filled with new experiences and lessons through Girls Inc. Before joining, I had little experience working with kids and in a camp setting. After joining, I have learned so much both from the girls and myself. Leading STEM activities all summer, I have seen how curious and knowledgeable the girls are. They are curious about different paths they could take and what their options are. I have also learned more about their background and cultures, developing their personalities more. Not only have I learned from the girls, but the whole experience has taught me more about my leadership abilities. I have learned how to facilitate learning groups, advocate for girls who may be more shy, and be communicative with girls who may be less interested. I hope to use these skills in my future as a physician, using the vital communication and trust development skills I learned in this camp.”

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Greater Philadelphia Health Action, Inc.   

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Promoting Preventive Care in the Greater Philadelphia Area

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Student Interns:

Ada Liu, Drexel University College of Medicine

Karsyn Terry, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Academic Preceptor:
Annette Gadegbeku, MD, Drexel University College of Medicine

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Community Preceptor:
Monica Mallory-Whitmore, DO, Greater Philadelphia Health Action, Inc.

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Community Site:
Greater Philadelphia Health Action, Inc. (GPHA) is a large Federally Qualified Health Center that has been serving patients for over five decades. GPHA has 12 clinical sites throughout Philadelphia and is the largest non-hospital health provider in the region. Its mission is to provide quality, comprehensive medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, and child development services through an expert staff of professionals. While using a fiscally responsible approach, it seeks to meet the needs of a diverse patient population, regardless of the ability to pay.

www.gphainc.org

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Team’s Experience:

The Bridging the Gaps student interns focused on creating health initiatives to improve quality measures across the six GPHA primary care sites. They focused on quality measures for colorectal screening, diabetic eye and foot screening, and asthma control medication pickup. Working with health center administrators and clinical directors, the interns identified potential barriers faced by patients in the community and created solutions, including educational materials that connect patients with resources. The interns also worked on establishing a more sustainable workflow for pediatric autism patient referrals, including creating a workflow document, a tracker-to-document referral process, and a parent educational booklet to enhance understanding of the process. When not working on these health initiatives and program assessments, the interns helped care coordinators reach out to patients to confirm their annual physical appointments and worked with patients to complete their annual health risk assessments before scheduled appointments.

 

Reflections:

Ada Liu and Karsyn Terry: “Working at GPHA over this summer has been a valuable experience that showcased the organization as a significant contributor in increasing healthcare access for the underserved and marginalized communities throughout the Greater Philadelphia area. Throughout the time at GPHA, we worked closely with clinical directors and nurses across various GPHA sites throughout Philadelphia, learning about the various socioeconomic barriers patients face preventing them from taking care of their own health. Notably, across all clinics, we witnessed the priority to improve patient education and health literacy. Whether it be from brochures, links on their website, or simply providing thorough explanations over the phone, every staff member at GPHA clearly understands the importance of keeping their patients as informed as possible and is committed to giving patients agency over their well-being. Despite having to navigate a wide variety of challenges, we were inspired to witness the ubiquitous love of patient-centered care and overall optimism to make a difference.”

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Greener Partners

 

Greener Partners: Urban Farming and Education in Greater Philadelphia

 

Student Intern:
Olivia Chagnon, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Academic Preceptor:
Jeremiah Goldstein, MD, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children

 

Community Preceptor:
Jessica Chou, Greener Partners

 

Community Site:
Greener Partners is a West Philadelphia-based nonprofit organization that aims to educate the community about plants, nutrition, and urban farming. Greener Partners uses on-site gardens at local schools to teach students about where their food comes from and what various plants can be used for. The organization has also established a mobile farm program that broadens its educational reach to more locations and events. Greener Partners is also heavily involved in expanding access to fresh foods in the local community. One highlight of this initiative is the development of Deaver Wellness Farm at Lankenau Medical Center, where produce is grown and distributed to the hospital’s patients.

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Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student intern assisted with weekly programming at local summer camps, helping to facilitate garden- and classroom-based activities and recipe making. The intern also contributed to the maintenance of the Greener Partners gardens through weeding, harvesting, and assisting with the construction of a rain collection system. The intern additionally had the opportunity to create supplemental materials for the organization, including short videos to accompany produce distributions at Deaver Wellness Farm and a monthly newsletter that highlighted Greener Partners’ recent work, provided nutrition tips to readers, and shared recipe ideas. The intern also assisted with food distributions for local community members.

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Reflections:

Olivia Chagnon: “My experience with Greener Partners this summer was immensely rewarding. I was lucky enough to volunteer with the organization throughout my first year at Drexel, and my positive experience made my decision to continue working for them this summer an easy one. In my time with Greener Partners I have learned so much about the work being done to make fresh foods more accessible to the local community in West Philadelphia and am also now more aware of the barriers that exist in getting produce into the hands of those experiencing food insecurity. I am inspired by the work that locations like Deaver Wellness Farm at Lankenau Medical Center are doing to improve food access for patients with the recognition that food is medicine. During my future career as a physician, I plan to be cognizant of local food access resources in my area so that I can share this information with my own patients. I also loved having the opportunity to step outside the classroom and learn more about garden maintenance and the growing process. The passion that the GP farmers and educators have for their work is contagious, and everyone I worked with was eager to share their knowledge and expertise. It was a summer that I am incredibly grateful for and will not soon forget.”

 

 

HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy

 

Helping Minds Shine at HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy

 

Student Interns:

Oluwanifemi (Nifemi) Adetunji, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine

Seoyun Jang, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine

Leona Kwong, Drexel University College of Medicine

Meghan Tracy, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine

Anna Xiang, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Academic Preceptors:

Hillary R. Bogner, MD, MSCE, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine

Donald L. Boyer, MD, MSEd, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Clarissa Lacson, PhD, MT-BC, Drexel University, College of Nursing and Health Professions

Abby Quinn Peterson, DMD, MPH, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine

Elizabeth Powell, DDS, MPH, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine

 

Community Preceptors:

Julie Conway, SLPD, CCC-SLP, ATP, HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy

Teresa Giardina, MSEd, OG, HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy

 

Community Site:

HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy is located in West Philadelphia and works with students aged 5 to 21 with complex physical and intellectual disabilities. HMS School’s mission is to support students in thriving academically while developing their abilities to engage with the world smoothly once they graduate. The staff at HMS provides safe, secure, and stimulating environments for students to participate in classrooms and in art, physical, music, occupational, and speech therapies. Over time, students can learn physical navigation, feeding, emotional regulation, and communication skills.

https://hmsschool.org/

 

Team’s Experience:

The Bridging the Gaps student interns assisted in developing cerebral visual impairment (CVI)-friendly sight-word binders and the digital scanning of children’s books to enhance both nondigital and digital literacy resources for students. They also shadowed occupational, speech, and physical therapists, as well as nursing staff, to better understand interdisciplinary care. The interns helped support classrooms by promoting sensory experimentation and assisting students in exploring alternative communication methods. Their additional efforts included supporting oral health, cardiovascular disease prevention, and health promotion activities.

 

Reflections:

Oluwanifemi (Nifemi) Adetunji, Seoyun Jang, Leona Kwong, Meghan Tracy, and Anna Xiang: “Through this experience, we developed a deeper understanding of working with children with disabilities, gaining insight into their unique needs and recognizing the importance of patience, empathy, and adaptability in their care. Observing interdisciplinary care was especially meaningful as it showed us how different healthcare disciplines collaborate to create comprehensive plans that support the students’ physical, emotional, and cognitive development. We also came to appreciate the importance of narrative medicine by listening to the stories of classroom teachers, students’ families, and nurses. This insight helped us deliver personalized care that is attentive to each individual’s unique needs. This experience also reinforced the value of collaborative teamwork, where open communication and shared goals lead to more holistic and effective support for children with disabilities.”

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Inglis House

 

Activities to Empower – Therapeutic Life Enrichment for Residents at Inglis House

 

Student Intern:
Gloria Pezzella, Drexel University College of Medicine

 

Academic Preceptor:
Clarissa Lacson, PhD, MT-BC, Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions, Creative Arts in Therapy

 

Community Preceptor:
Patricia Veltri, Inglis House

 

Community Site:
Inglis House is a residential skilled nursing facility providing person-centered care for adults with neurodegenerative disabilities. The residents, who range in age from 20 to 90, are all wheelchair users. Their primary diagnoses include multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injury. Inglis House is a nonprofit, which allows it to provide therapeutic and life enrichment services with many engagement opportunities, including art classes, history lectures, technology services, music therapy, trips, and more.

 

Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student intern worked alongside the Therapeutic Life Enrichment Team assisting with daily activities scheduled for residents, including art groups, music games, sensory meditation, and practices for Keen Games (Inglis House’s annual Olympics). The intern’s contributions included transporting residents and assisting with personal adaptations, as needed, for hands-on activities. The overall goal was to allow residents to operate as independently as possible and get the most from the experience. Throughout the summer at Inglis House, the intern socialized frequently with residents, providing reassurance and friendship.

 

Reflections:

Gloria Pezzella: “The time I spent at Inglis House this summer was deeply meaningful for me. Connecting with the residents and learning more about the person beyond what meets the eye demonstrated the importance of person-centered care to me. Each person is unique, with a special story to tell, and giving someone the space to share can completely transform your interactions. I am moved by each person’s resilience and positive outlook despite the challenges they have faced which led them to Inglis House. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to spend time at Inglis House and to learn how to respectfully navigate the complex medical conditions contributing to these disabilities. All of this will contribute to my practice as a physician in the future, as I want to be a provider whom my patients can trust, someone who truly sees and understands them.”

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Legacy Youth Tennis and Education

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Serving Philadelphia’s Youth Through Sport: Legacy Youth Tennis and Education

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Student Interns:
Anushka Kumar, Drexel University College of Medicine
Melanie Stender, Drexel University College of Medicine

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Academic Preceptor:
Daniel R. Taylor, DO, Drexel University College of Medicine, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children

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Community Preceptor:
Devynne McClelland, Legacy Youth Tennis and Education

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Community Site:
Legacy Youth Tennis and Education offers accessible, high-quality seven-week summer tennis camps at nearly 20 locations across Philadelphia. These free or low-cost camps provide young athletes with tennis instruction, mentorship, and the chance to compete in an inter-site tournament, with winners earning a trip to the U.S. Open. Legacy’s community-based programs are designed to build strong athletes while promoting fitness, character development, and inclusivity. Additionally, through its Out-of-School Time (OST) program, Legacy partners with local Philadelphia schools to offer safe, engaging, and supportive childcare during both the summer and after-school hours.

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Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student interns worked at Pleasant Playground, one of several Community Tennis Camp locations operating across Philadelphia. The interns worked alongside Pleasant Playground Community Tennis Camp leadership, including tennis coaches and junior instructors, to support a variety of activities — from leading warm-ups and organizing skill-building drills to facilitating group games. Beyond the court, the interns contributed at the Legacy Youth Tennis and Education Center, where they handled camper sign-ins and assisted with essential program logistics. The interns also volunteered weekly at Pennell Elementary School’s Out-of-School Time program, where they led interactive health discussions on topics like hygiene and personal care, and stepped in to help with classroom and recreational activities whenever needed.

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Reflections:
Anushka Kumar and Melanie Stender: “Spending the summer at Legacy Youth Tennis and Education gave us the opportunity to connect with kids in ways that were both fun and deeply meaningful. Some of the most impactful moments didn’t come from structured drills or games, but from simple one-on-one interactions that made campers feel seen and supported. These moments taught us the importance of meeting children where they are and being intentional about creating opportunities for all to grow. We also gained a deeper appreciation for how community-based programs reduce barriers to access and provide safe, consistent spaces for connection and development. This experience has strengthened our commitment to approaching healthcare with empathy, patience, and a strong focus on equity.”​​​​​​