Using mini-grants and service-learning projects to prepare students to serve underserved populations

Area of Science:

• Community Health
• Medical Education
• Public Health Initiatives

Background:

• Service-learning initiatives are crucial for practical public health training.
• The Center for Community Health and Service Learning (CCHSL) at Morehouse School of Medicine developed a novel program.
• Bridging academic learning with community engagement is essential for health professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the utility of extramural mini-grants in service-learning.
• To assess the effectiveness of mini-grants in teaching community health assessment, health communication, and health promotion.
• To evaluate a short-term initiative for medical students and residents.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a short-term service-learning initiative.
• Utilizing extramural mini-grant funding for program activities.
• Focus on practical training in community health assessment, communication, and promotion.

Main Results:

• Mini-grants provided a viable mechanism for experiential learning.
• Students and residents gained practical skills in key public health areas.
• The initiative successfully engaged participants in community-focused health activities.

Conclusions:

• Extramural mini-grants are a valuable tool for enhancing public health education.
• Service-learning initiatives can effectively impart essential community health competencies.
• The CCHSL model demonstrates a successful approach to practical health training.