Zufall Health’s AmeriCorps Program Adds Public Health Cohort
Zufall Health is excited to welcome its first-ever class of Public Health AmeriCorps members in July. During their 11-month term, these 10 individuals will provide health education and training, conduct community outreach and engagement, and work to improve access to health care. Members’ focus areas will include: health equity and the social determinants of health; COVID testing and vaccination support; access to services and reducing barriers to care; nutrition and exercise education for youth; and management of chronic diseases.
AmeriCorps is a federal agency that engages over 70,000 Americans annually in intensive service projects to meet community needs. Its members are essential to civic, nonprofit, and faith-based organizations across the U.S. Now approaching its tenth service year, Zufall AmeriCorps has recruited and trained over 75 members since 2013. Through their service, these members have had a significant impact on our communities while enriching their own professional lives.
Zufall is among 82 organizations selected to participate in the inaugural Public Health AmeriCorps program, created in partnership with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). With a $400 million investment from the CDC’s American Rescue Plan Act funds, Public Health AmeriCorps will promote health equity, mental health and substance abuse treatment, and COVID-19 recovery, and increase access to services for underserved populations.
“Zufall’s clinical and community needs fit well with Public Health AmeriCorps focus areas,” said Zufall AmeriCorps Program manager Jenniffer Amaya. “After a traumatic two-plus years for Zufall’s patients and community, we are extremely grateful to be able to increase our AmeriCorps capacity in this way.”
Our AmeriCorps alumni have gone on to complete advanced degrees including doctor of medicine, physician assistant, licensed clinical social worker, masters of public health, and doctor of dental surgery/medicine and some continue to work in community health settings. Through the Public Health AmeriCorps program, Zufall is delighted to have the opportunity to help develop the next generation of public health leaders and looks forward to their future contributions.
Photo: 2014-2015 AmeriCorps members prepared a St. Patrick’s Day lunch for guests at the Salvation Army in Montclair.