by Sara Bills, PT, DPT
On Tuesday, August 20, the Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Allied Health Professions held its inaugural Community Engagement Day. This event saw the incoming cohorts of occupational and physical therapy students stepping out of the classroom and into the community to lend a helping hand to local organizations and partners.
Over 100 students, faculty, and staff participated in various projects at nine community sites in Kearney and Omaha, each designed to support and uplift the community while providing real-world experience in service and care. From assisting with therapeutic activities to engaging in environmental beautification efforts, the day was a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact that healthcare professionals can have outside traditional clinical settings.
The Community Engagement Day was not just about service; it was about fostering connections. Students worked alongside community members and professionals, learning about the diverse needs and strengths of the populations they will one day serve. These experiences are invaluable, helping to shape well-rounded clinicians who understand the importance of community-based care, social determinants of health, and team-based care.
In reflecting on the day, students shared how the experience broadened their perspectives and deepened their commitment to their future professions.
To capture the spirit of the day, we’ve created a video that highlights the work and dedication of our students.
We are incredibly proud of our students and their contributions. The success of this inaugural Community Engagement Day is a promising start to what we hope will become a cherished annual tradition. It’s a day that embodies the mission of the College of Allied Health Professions at UNMC—to improve health by transforming lives and creating a healthy future for all people and communities.
Thank you to all the students, faculty, and community partners who made this day possible. We look forward to continuing this important work and building even stronger connections with the communities we serve.