Community Engagement Day Honored by Fulton County for Commitment to Health, Well-Being of Residents
Morehouse School of Medicine celebrated its neighbors at MSM’s Annual Community Engagement Day (CED) on Saturday, Oct. 12. CED first began in 2014 shortly after Valerie Montgomery Rice, MD, was announced as the sixth president of the school. Years later, MSM continues to provide health screenings, talk about important medical and political issues, and bring fun and educational activities.
“I’m proud to see we continue to honor our mission to improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities and address primary health care through programs in education, research, and service,” said Dr. Montgomery Rice. “This day highlights the best of MSM’s partnerships and collaborations with neighborhood residents and other external partners in service, research, patient care, and training.”
This year, approximately 300 people came to the Andrew and Walter Young Family YMCA to learn more about what goes on at MSM. Attendees were able to take advantage of free HIV tests, blood pressure and glucose screenings, flu shots and more through MSM’s Mobile Health Clinic. Visitors had a chance to connect with vendors to learn more about health insurance options, mortgage providers and other services to better their selves and neighborhoods. Workshops on mental health, sex trafficking, and healthy eating were also presented throughout the day. Radio station Kiss 104.1 Morning Groove host Art Terrell broadcasted live from the event. And if a community member visited at least 20 of the 65 participating vendors, they could take home a free basket full of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Not only did attendees get to learn about MSM’s services for the community, but they were also able to see some of its’ programs’ successful results. Patients who underwent bariatric surgery through Morehouse Healthcare showed off their new physiques and stylish clothing during a special fashion show celebrating their achievements.
CED was celebrated by local government at this year’s event. Fulton County District 4 Commissioner Natalie Hall presented the MSM Office of Community Engagement with a proclamation for their continued commitment to their surrounding neighborhoods on Saturday. The proclamation will also be presented at the Fulton County Board of Commissioners Meeting.
