The UCR School of Medicine’s Center for Healthy Communities (CHC) and Inland Empire Street Medicine (IESM) program partnered with Temalpakh Farms, run by the Augustine Band of the Cahuilla Indians in the Coachella Valley, to host a two-day nutrition presentation for Nova Academy High School students on April 15-16.
The collaboration brought together UCR undergraduate and medical student volunteers to educate and inspire Nova Academy students through hands-on learning activities centered around the importance of proper nutrition on one’s health and longevity.
Nova Academy students viewed a live blood pressure demonstration and actively discussed strategies to maintain healthy blood pressure through diet and exercise. The program included demonstrations and one-on-one guidance from UCR student volunteers. Students gained valuable insights into the importance of food choices and their connection to overall health.
“It was awesome, even I learned something during the presentation. I loved how they [UCR undergraduate and medical students] included aspects of the Cahuilla diet," said Adrienne Edmondson, a Temalpakh tribal educator. "I loved everyone’s enthusiasm and how they spoke to our kids.”
The event not only served as a platform to promote wellness but also showcased UCR's commitment to community outreach and mentorship. Many of the Nova Academy students expressed interest in pursuing higher education and healthcare careers, and the presence of UCR medical and undergraduate students provided a unique opportunity for meaningful dialogue and encouragement.
The mission of Temalpakh Farms is to “raise consciousness and educate the community regarding the local effects of climate change and develop a mindset of stewardship to rebuild the planet for future generations.”
UCR student volunteers who participated included:
- Kimberly Najera (MS1)
- Eduardo Casillas (MS1)
- Andrea Serrato (MS1)
- Alexis Perez (MS1)
- Pamela Munoz (MS1)
- Paola Ramirez (MS1)
- Brian Gao (4th year undergrad)
- Avik Shrestha (4th year undergrad)
- Matthew Lu (4th year undergrad)
- Lynnea Le (4th year undergrad)
- Albert Chammas (4th year undergrad)
- Rahul Almeida (4th year undergrad)
IESM’s mission is “to build relationships and trust with persons experiencing homelessness by offering access to resources and support… through organizing a bi-monthly clinic with graduate professional schools through the UCR School of Medicine, local community organizations, and undergraduate volunteers.”
