As the presenting sponsor at Celebrate Oak Park, UC Davis Health had a strong representation at the fun-filled community event.
Volunteers from numerous departments participated, including the Office for Health Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Food and Nutrition Services, the Office for Wellness Education, Volunteer Services, plus Talent Acquisition and Compensation Service's Diversity Services.
Community members enjoyed refreshing watermelon smoothies and fresh fruit, received resources about applying for or volunteering at the health system, and were provided information about free classes through UC Davis Health.
Nurses from the Patient Care Services Diversity Equity and Inclusion (PCS DEI) Council were onsite to conduct blood pressure checks and offer children's activities.
Michelle Linenberger, nursing professional development specialist at UC Davis Children’s Hospital and PCS DEI council member, said, “It was an honor to participate in the Celebrate Oak Park event. I appreciate the opportunity to create relationships and focus on connecting with our community.”
Chef James Ablett and nurses Cina Malone and Linenberger took the stage to share their journeys in advancing health equity. They also spoke about UC Davis Health's commitment to investing in the local community, which resonated deeply with attendees.
Malone shared, “I had such a great time meeting all the awesome people who came through and getting to experience what makes Oak Park such a special community. Thanks to all the talented and dedicated people who put this event together. I can’t wait to attend in the years to come!”
Staff distributed lots of swag, including Lysol wipes and UC Davis Health-branded T-shirts, water bottles, lunch bags, carry bags, lanyards, hand sanitizers, and more.
Adrian Rehn, president of the Oak Park Neighborhood Association, said, "I'd like to thank UC Davis Health for supporting this year's Celebrate Oak Park event as Presenting Sponsor. Thanks to them and our other generous sponsors, we could offer community members access to health services, electric vehicle test drives, STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) activities, music, performances, resources, and family fun.”
Touyee Thao, Anchor Institution Mission program analyst, expressed excitement about the event's success.
Thao said, “UC Davis Health was centrally located at the event, allowing us to engage with over 400 individuals, including families, children, and adults of all ages. This presence helped us build and strengthen relationships with community-based organizations and community members who expressed appreciation for the resources we provided and our significant involvement in the event.”
