Barber National Institute
Fostering a Healthy Lifestyle at Barber National Institute
Student Intern:
Daniel Gilbert, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Preceptor:
Colleen Cole Jeffery, PhD, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Community Preceptor:
Brian Smith, Barber National Institute
Community Site:
Founded in 1952 by Dr. Gertrude Barber, the Barber National Institute (BNI) is a statewide institute based in Erie, PA, that offers a broad range of support for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This includes work opportunities, day care, schooling, and community outings. The BNI operates within the context of shifting government funding and serves a broad clientele base. The BNI successfully fosters independence and positive experiences, reflected in countless testimonials from past and current clients and families.
https://www.barberinstitute.org/
Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student intern’s project involved several components, including an interactive oral hygiene workshop where clients were provided with the necessary materials and education to promote proper brushing and flossing. The next project was a nutritional component, and with the supervision of the intern and BNI staff, clients made lunch meat wraps and yogurt parfaits using inexpensive, healthy, simple ingredients. Following this hands-on activity, clients participated in nutrition Bingo, where they learned to differentiate healthy and unhealthy foods and ingredients in a fun, competitive environment. Finally, the intern’s project incorporated a physical activity component in which some form of exercise was included in the clients’ daily regimens. This included modified football, soccer, and warehouse bowling, as well as setting off stomp rockets. The goal was to foster an active work environment centered around community enjoyment.
Reflection:
Daniel Gilbert: “My time at Barber National Institute was both rewarding to the BNI community and myself. During my time at BNI, I engaged in countless positive interactions with clients who possess a broad range of intellectual disabilities. Through these interactions, I learned how to communicate with this unique population, their strengths and weaknesses, and their concerns regarding health. Through my connections with the clients, I was able to build relationships based on trust and understanding — assets that proved valuable when educating the clients in certain areas of health.”
Brevillier Village
Puzzle Pieces of Community: Coming Together as One
Student Intern:
Meghana Ravi, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Preceptor:
Robert Waters, PhD, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Community Preceptor:
Didi Howard, RN, ADON, Brevillier Village
Community Site:
Brevillier Village is a nonprofit senior healthcare and housing community dedicated to supporting older adults through every stage of aging. With a mission to create a welcoming and supportive environment, Brevillier Village offers a full continuum of care ranging from independent living to skilled nursing and memory support. The heart of Brevillier's philosophy is the belief that each resident should feel safe, valued, and truly at home. By fostering a strong sense of community and belonging, Brevillier Village provides not just care but connection, comfort, and dignity to all who reside there.
Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student intern sought to foster community, creativity, and intergenerational connection by organizing a collaborative puzzle mural project at Brevillier Village. Residents, staff, and visiting family members were each invited to decorate individual puzzle pieces that, when assembled, formed a unified mural centered around the theme of togetherness. The completed mural visually represented the idea that “each of us is unique, and when we come together, the puzzle is complete.” This project not only encouraged meaningful engagement and self-expression but also highlighted the importance of every individual’s contribution to the community.
Reflection:
Meghana Ravi: “My experience at Brevillier Village was both eye-opening and deeply rewarding. I witnessed firsthand how compassionate, community-based care can transform the lives of residents, families, and staff alike. Through daily interactions, shared stories, and the opportunity to observe care across disciplines, I learned the value of presence, communication, and dignity in healthcare. Brevillier reminded me that healing often begins with simply being seen, heard, and valued, and that’s a lesson I’ll carry with me throughout my journey in medicine.”
LECOM Health Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Creating Meaningful Moments: Health Education Initiatives at LNR
Student Intern:
Omar Al Mhtachem, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Preceptor:
Elizabeth A. Ferrer, PhD, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Community Preceptor:
Tonya Moyer, NHA, LECOM Institute for Successful Living
Community Site:
LECOM Health Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (LNR) is a skilled nursing facility located in Erie, PA. The facility offers a welcoming environment and provides both long-term care and short-term services, including orthopedic care and chronic disease management. It is also supported by a 24/7 respiratory therapy team with a dedicated pulmonary specialist. LNR aims to deliver personalized care that supports residents throughout their recovery and daily living.
Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student intern developed projects that focused on both mental and physical well‑being. Many initiatives were implemented to promote oral health: The intern gave a presentation on oral health, handed out informational flyers, set up a teeth‑cleaning activity, and held a wind‑up chattering‑teeth race. To foster a sense of community, the intern organized a grand singing competition, during which the residents had a chance to show off their talent and encourage each other. The event was followed by a trophy award ceremony in which residents were recognized and celebrated. These activities encouraged residents to stay active, be proactive in their health, boost their spirits, and interact with one another.
Reflection:
Omar Al Mhtachem: “The Bridging the Gaps experience significantly deepened my appreciation of holistic patient care. Engaging with the residents in various activities and seeing them go about their everyday lives showed me the importance of addressing mental and physical well‑being together. Moreover, looking back, I think the opportunity enhanced my communication skills and highlighted the importance of teamwork in healthcare. Truly, sometimes all people need is someone to listen.”
LECOM Medical Center and Behavioral Health Pavilion
Balance and Belonging Week: Celebrating All Aspects of Health
Student Interns:
Olivia Greenwood, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Ethan Zelenke, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Preceptor:
Christopher C. Keller, PhD, CPH, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Community Preceptors
Danielle Lesik, MA, LPC, MT-BC, LECOM Medical Center and Behavioral Health Pavilion
Community Site:
The LECOM Medical Center and Behavioral Health Pavilion (formerly Millcreek Community Hospital) is an osteopathic acute care hospital serving Erie, PA, and the surrounding communities, providing inpatient and emergency care as well as outpatient services. The Pavilion includes multiple inpatient psychiatric units, including separate facilities for pediatric psychiatric patients. As part of LECOM Health, it is dedicated to providing whole-person lifelong patient care while upholding the values of service, clinical innovation, and research.
https://lecomhealth.com/location/lecom-medical-center-and-behavioral-health-pavilion/
Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student interns created a “Balance and Belonging Week” suite of educational programs for the patients on the pediatric and adolescent behavioral health unit. Each day of the week was dedicated to a specific topic, including oral and general hygiene, physical health, mental health, and social health. Activities focused on educating patients about each aspect of health and how it affected other areas, providing a multifaceted view of well-being. Patients were included as active participants, alongside the interns and unit staff, in games and activities to help further learning retention and encourage willingness to learn.
Reflections:
Olivia Greenwood: “During my time in the Bridging the Gaps Program at the LECOM Behavioral Health Pavilion, I developed a deeper appreciation for the vital role each healthcare professional plays in delivering high-quality, compassionate care. Observing the collaboration between physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers, and support staff showed me that effective care relies on mutual respect and shared purpose. This experience taught me that listening, teamwork, and recognizing the unique contributions of every team member are essential to truly meeting patients’ needs. Carrying these lessons forward, I’m committed to becoming a physician who values collaboration and leads with empathy.”
Ethan Zelenke: “I am beyond thankful for my time at the LECOM Behavioral Health Pavilion on the inpatient pediatric psychiatry unit. I have learned so much from the incredibly skilled staff there, from therapeutic skills to the day-to-day of unit functions. As a future physician, I know I will be able to utilize these lessons to work with my fellow team members in healthcare environments, bringing their expertise to work with pediatric and adult patients alike. In concert with further education, I feel confident I will be able to provide even better care to patients, improving their experience myself and with those alongside me.”
LECOM Senior Living Center
Active Minds and Bodies: Fostering Senior Wellness With Books and Movement
Student Intern:
Breanna Taylor, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Preceptor:
Noelle Thielman, PhD, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Community Preceptor:
Mary Styn, NHA, LECOM Senior Living Center
Community Site:
The LECOM Senior Living Center is a skilled nursing facility that provides both long-term and short-term care primarily for elderly residents, including those recovering from surgery or injury. Each resident has a private room and bathroom, and the facility is divided into neighborhoods with common areas designed to resemble a home setting. The SLC does not have specialized units such as memory care or rehabilitation floors, which offers a more integrated environment for residents.
https://lecomhealth.com/location/lecom-senior-living-center/
Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student intern worked with LECOM Senior Living Center to enhance the quality of life for residents by focusing on initiatives that promoted cognitive engagement and physical well-being. One of the intern’s contributions was the introduction of a book cart, designed to address the lack of access to large print books. This initiative provided residents with easy access to reading materials that supported their mental stimulation and emotional health. In addition, the intern developed a physical activity program to support residents transitioning from physical therapy. By offering home exercise routines and facilitating self-sufficient exercise sessions, the program helped residents maintain their physical independence and improve their overall mobility. These activities were designed to empower residents, helping them stay engaged both mentally and physically while fostering independence and well-being in their daily lives.
Reflection:
Breanna Taylor: “This summer shaped my perspective as a future physician by teaching me the value of looking at health holistically — focusing not only on physical recovery, but also on emotional and cognitive well-being. This experience reinforced the significance of patient-centered care and showed me how small, thoughtful interventions can have a substantial impact on a patient’s independence and mental health. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to and learn from the residents and staff at LECOM Senior Living Center.”
Mercy Center for Women
From Awareness to Empowerment: A Holistic Wellness Initiative
Student Intern:
Tenzin Norzin, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Preceptor:
Leah Labranche, PhD, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Community Preceptor:
Anna Brzozowski, Mercy Center for Women
Community Site:
The Mercy Center for Women provides safe, supportive, and empowering housing solutions (including permanent supportive housing) for individuals and families in transition, with a focus on those affected by domestic violence, addiction, and mental health challenges. The Mercy Center for Women is committed to fostering stability, healing, and resilience through comprehensive support services and collaborations, acknowledging the importance of spiritual well-being in the journey toward empowerment and a fulfilling life.
Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student intern developed several projects at the Mercy Center for Women. The intern led educational sessions on key health topics, including oral hygiene, common gynecological issues, and the dangers of smoking, helping residents build knowledge of basic health maintenance. To foster personal growth and resilience, the intern launched a book club featuring Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth, encouraging residents to reflect on how consistent effort, more than talent, can drive success. To round out the experience and build community, the intern also organized a lively karaoke night for residents and their children, creating an opportunity to relax, laugh, and enjoy each other's company.
Reflection:
Tenzin Norzin: “Interning at the Mercy Center for Women has been one of the most invaluable experiences I’ve had in serving the local community. I have met with women who have faced unimaginable hardships and who continue to strive toward healing and independence. This experience has reminded me that medical issues are not just the physical symptoms that patients present with, but also social and emotional ones. My time at the Mercy Center for Women reinforced my interest in women’s health and rights, and I hope to practice medicine with consideration for the broader context of patients’ lives.”
Parkside Regency at South Shore
Pieces of the PIE(SS)
Student Interns:
Anna Betler, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Luke Geiger, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Preceptor:
Jack Lee, PhD, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Community Preceptor:
Marie Heberlein, LECOM Regency at South Shore
Community Site:
Parkside Regency at South Shore is a senior living community situated in the heart of Erie’s Frontier Park. The Regency provides full-service accommodations (both independent and personal care plans) to the aging population. Residents are provided with ample opportunities to interact, socialize, and enjoy healthy aging.
https://lecomhealth.com/lecom-senior-services/senior-living/regency-at-south-shore/
Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student interns’ project focused on the PIESS philosophy, created and promoted by Recreation Coordinator Marie Heberlein. PIESS represents the physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of a person’s life. An end-of-internship carnival allowed residents to engage in all these “slices” while enjoying an afternoon of games, live music, and themed food. Reflecting themes of reminiscence and gratitude, the carnival served as a culminating event that incorporated the PIESS framework.
Reflections:
Anna Betler: “My time at the Regency taught me about the thin line between living life and preparing for death in the aging population. From our first day at the Regency, life, love, and a whole lot of laughter filled the atriums. Without even knowing it, the residents taught me that the fun of life only stops if you make it stop. Those who ventured to participate in the activities coordinated by the recreation team exuded joy and an appreciation for life. The PIESS framework is an important and effective tactic for residents to enjoy a well-balanced life. This model is something I would like to implement in my practice as a future healthcare professional. I also hope to instill the PIESS philosophy in my patients’ lives, as well as embody the sentiment in my own life.”
Luke Geiger: “The experiences that I had at the Regency have given me an enhanced outlook on life and how I wish to serve in future medical practice. From the first week, it was apparent that the community is very strong, and the care that permeates through this building is what gives it its notable life and charm. There have been lessons throughout this summer that have reshaped my view on different cultures, populations, and needs, while still striving to hit all of the PIESS slices. While in the later years of life, the residents at the Regency still live fully and wholeheartedly every day; as they will tell you, they are just becoming ‘more mature.’ The value that the residents bring to this world is immense, and I am grateful that this experience allowed me to live alongside them and learn every story that they had to share.”
Voices for Independence
A Musical Spectrum
Student Intern:
Bryce Patterson, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Preceptor:
Randy Kulesza, PhD, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Community Preceptor:
Tiffany Frey, Voices For Independence
Community Site:
Voices For Independence (VFI) is a center for independent living dedicated to empowering people with disabilities to have control of their lives and to supporting them in becoming active members within their community. The activities department engages the consumers daily in the community center, both mentally and physically. Activities such as Bingo, cooking, karaoke, group fitness, and yoga are a few of the many ways VFI strives to fulfill its mission. In addition to the activities department, VFI has several other departments, including home care, nursing home transition (NHT) services, deinstitutionalization, home modifications, peer support, advocacy, and wellness. NHT focuses on providing choices and tools for consumers to help them determine where they want to live and to inform them about the options available. The home modifications department ensures that consumers have homes that are accessible according to their disability. It also advocates on behalf of consumers who are renting by informing landlords that they are required by law to allow tenants with disabilities to make modifications to their rental units.
Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student intern’s project focused on coordinating and ensuring the future implementation of a music therapy program to be included in the weekly activities schedule for consumers at the site. Many consumers at Voices For Independence fall somewhere on the autism spectrum, and music therapy has been shown to help improve their behaviors and functioning. The goal was to coordinate with local resources like Lake Erie Music Therapy and Mercyhurst University's music therapy program to implement a sustainable music therapy program at VFI. A program is set to begin in the fall with Mercyhurst University’s music therapy program. Students enrolled in the program will be able to gain experience with VFI consumers while providing them with music therapy.
Reflection:
Bryce Patterson: “The time that I have been able to spend with the consumers here at Voices For Independence has truly changed my perception of people with disabilities permanently and for the best. When I first arrived at my site, I was unsure how to communicate with all the consumers here, and I assumed that they wouldn’t be able to understand me because of their intellectual disabilities. The more time that I spent with them, though, I learned to see past their diagnosis and start seeing them as people, and when I began doing this, it opened my eyes to how complex and remarkable everyone here was. The experiences and what I have learned from Bridging the Gaps is something that I will carry on with me for the rest of my career, and it taught me things that will help me to better serve my future patients.”