Alliance Hall of Allentown
Title: Alliance Hall: A Place to Play, Grow, and Belong
Student Interns:
Iqrah Mohammad
DeSales University, School of Health Sciences, Medical Studies to Physician Assistant Program
Andrew Vogel
DeSales University, School of Health Sciences, Medical Studies to Physician Assistant Program
Academic Preceptor:
Tricia Bernecker, PhD, RN
DeSales University
Community Preceptor:
Tina Amato, MS, LDN, RD
Nutrition and Physical Activity Manager, Allentown Health Bureau
Community Site:
The Alliance Hall Summer Program is a free summer recreation program at Central Elementary school run by the Allentown Health Bureau aimed at giving youth aged 7-13 years a safe place to play during the summer. Children are given the opportunity to engage in a variety of activities, including arts and crafts, sports, daily swimming, and other physical activity. Children also receive healthy breakfasts and lunches.
Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student interns assisted with the Alliance Hall Summer Camp program by supporting daily activities and engaging with youth participants. The work focused on creating a safe, fun, and structured environment for children through games, educational sessions, and field trips. The interns also helped lead dental and oral health presentations, using interactive tools like dental props and coloring sheets to teach healthy habits. Throughout the program, they built strong relationships with campers to encourage confidence, creativity, and positive behavior.
Reflections
“My experience at Alliance Hall was incredibly fulfilling. I had the opportunity to connect with children and create a positive environment where they felt seen and heard. Through activities, such as playing sports and making bracelets, or handing out breakfast in the mornings, I saw firsthand how impactful it is to simply engage with the students and be present. This experience deepened my passion for working with youth and reminded me of the importance of creating safe spaces where every child can thrive.”
Iqrah Mohammad
“Being part of the summer program helped me realize how much the little things, like sitting with a kid at lunch or cheering them on in the pool, can really make a difference. It made me more mindful of how I show up every day, and how important it is to be a positive example. What you don’t do is just as important as what you do, because the kids are always watching and learning from how you act, even when you don’t realize it.”
Andrew Vogel