Natali Smiley, a Rush Medical College medical student, proposes to develop and implement a program that empowers refugees through health literacy and accessibility.  She will partner with organizations working with refugees and asylum seekers, such as Syrian American Medical Association, World Relief, and Pillars Community Health to provide a network with the opportunity to learn more about how to navigate the U.S. healthcare system and have autonomy over their health. She envisions hosting regular workshops covering topics such as Medicaid/Medicare, establishing care, patient rights, and basic health literacy. A majority of the clients are new to the United States and have a range of English fluency, so Natali will regularly be using translators. Natali seeks to raise $2,000 ($15/hour) to pay the translators for their skill and time, and to secure interpreters that will help make this knowledge accessible to clients.

The Chicago Area Schweitzer Fellowship is a year-long service learning program for graduate students in health-related professions who will design and implement innovative direct service projects aimed at improving the health and well-being of underserved Chicago area communities. Through their community projects and participation in a year-long program that includes mentoring support, monthly meetings, written reflection, and interprofessional collaboration, Schweitzer Fellows are developing the skills and confidence needed to become Leaders in Service—professionals who will remain dedicated to public service and to creating change.

Each of the Fellows has created a "wish list" of supplies and resources that will help them realize their service project goals. Please consider supporting a specific Fellow's project or click here to donate to the general Schweitzer project fund. 

The Chicago Area Schweitzer Fellowship is a program of Health & Medicine Policy Research Group. Your Fellows Fest donation will appear on your credit card statement at "Health & Medicine."