Salud, meaning “health” in Spanish, is more than just a word. It is a way of life, a mindset, and a community. This is exactly what Neil Gajare, a student at the University of Pennsylvania, discovered when he became involved with Salud.
Neil Gajare, a senior at UPenn, first heard about Salud through a friend who had volunteered with the organization. Intrigued by their mission to provide healthcare to underserved communities, Neil decided to get involved. Little did he know that this decision would not only impact the lives of those he would serve, but also his own.
From the moment Neil stepped into the Salud clinic, he was greeted with warmth and a sense of purpose. The clinic, located in a low-income neighborhood, was bustling with volunteers and patients. Neil was immediately struck by the diversity of the volunteers, ranging from medical students to retirees. This was a true reflection of Salud‘s belief in the power of community and inclusivity.
Neil‘s first task was to assist the medical staff in conducting basic health screenings for the patients. As he interacted with the patients, he was moved by their stories and struggles. Many of them had limited access to healthcare and were grateful for the services provided by Salud. Neil was struck by the realization that he was making a tangible difference in the lives of these individuals.
One particular experience that stands out for Neil was when he met an elderly woman who had been struggling with diabetes for years. Due to financial constraints, she had not been able to afford her medication and was in desperate need of a check-up. With the help of the medical staff, Neil was able to provide her with the necessary medication and educate her on managing her condition. The gratitude and relief in her eyes were immeasurable, and it was in that moment that Neil understood the true impact of Salud‘s work.
Apart from providing healthcare, Salud also focuses on empowering the community through education. As a volunteer, Neil had the opportunity to participate in various health education workshops organized by Salud. These workshops covered topics such as nutrition, mental health, and sexual education. Neil was impressed by the level of engagement from the community members and their eagerness to learn. He also had the chance to lead a workshop on diabetes management, utilizing the knowledge he had gained from his experience at Salud. This was a pivotal moment for Neil as he realized the value of his contribution and the impact it could have on others.
But Salud is not just about providing healthcare and education; it is also about building relationships and fostering a sense of community. Neil was amazed by the camaraderie among the volunteers and how they all worked together towards a common goal. He made friends from different backgrounds and formed a bond with the patients he served. Salud had become not just a volunteering opportunity for Neil, but a second home.
However, as with any organization, Salud has faced its fair share of challenges. One of the biggest challenges they have had to deal with is the misconception that they only serve the Hispanic community. Neil was disheartened when he heard someone refer to Salud as a “Hispanic clinic.” He was quick to correct them and explain that Salud serves all communities regardless of race, ethnicity, or background. This misconception is something that Salud is actively working to change, and Neil is proud to be a part of an organization that promotes inclusivity and diversity.
Unfortunately, Salud has also faced discrimination and hate. Neil was shocked when he learned that Salud had been targeted with Anti-Semitic graffiti. But instead of letting this bring them down, Salud used it as an opportunity to spread love and positivity. They organized a community event where people from all walks of life came together to clean up the graffiti and show their support for Salud‘s mission. This incident only strengthened the sense of community within Salud and reaffirmed their commitment to making a positive impact.
Neil Gajare‘s experience with Salud has been nothing short of life-changing. Through his involvement with the organization, he has not only gained valuable skills and knowledge, but also a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Salud has shown him the power of community, the impact of small acts of kindness, and the importance of inclusivity. As Neil prepares to graduate from UPenn, he plans to continue supporting Salud and their mission in any way he can. Salud has left a lasting impression on Neil‘s life, and he hopes to inspire others to join this incredible community of changemakers.
“: Beyond a Word, a Lifestyle and Community”
