NEMG in the community

Community outreach was very active at Northeast Medical Group throughout the third quarter of 2023. From an annual event designed to inspire kids and families to keep their minds and bodies healthy, to specially themed walks aimed at raising both awareness and funds, the spirit of giving back to the community was in abundance.

On April 29, NEMG participated in the Bridgeport YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day, a day of wholesome, fun activities designed to improve children’s health and well-being. In addition to outdoor games and music, NEMG provided blood pressure screenings, as well as educational materials on heart health to those in attendance. The free event drew a tremendous turnout and attracted many families and children. “Special thanks go to the NEMG Community Outreach Committee (COC) for their ongoing work in the community,” said Martha Judd, coordinator, Community and Government Relations. “We were one of several community organizations represented at the event and fun activities were held throughout the morning for the children.”

The 16th Annual Walk to End Homelessness took place on April 30. Designed to raise awareness about homelessness and support for programs, the walk started and ended at Parade Plaza in downtown New London. All proceeds from the event benefit the New London Homeless Hospitality Center – a place of safety and welcome for adults facing homelessness in southeastern Connecticut. “In addition to the walk, we provide a monthly meal service to the New London Homeless Hospitality Center,” said Katie Poitras, manager, practice operations. “They had a great turnout this year.”

 

Also on April 30, the Steps2Cure NF Walk, to benefit NF Northeast, was held at Dunkin’ Donuts Park Concourse in Hartford. Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a genetic condition of the nervous system that causes tumors to form on the nerves, in or on the body, at any time. There is currently no cure for NF, and it has very few treatments. Planned by NF Northeast, an organization whose mission is to bring hope to those affected by NF and allied disorders, the one-mile walk kicks-off NF Awareness Month and raises funds to support its programs: patient advocacy, research, and patient education. This was a very special event for NEMG’s Kristina Rath, MD, whose daughter lives with the effects of NF daily. “My 16-year-old daughter Jane has neurofibromatosis, and each year, this event helps us get one step closer to finding a cure,” said Dr. Rath. “Even though the event has passed, donations can still be made and are gratefully accepted.” 

On May 6, NEMG staff members geared up for the American Heart Association’s 36th annual Greater New Haven Heart Walk – a three-mile, rain or shine trek beginning at Savin Rock Park in West Haven. Funds raised help support scientific research and advances related to heart disease and stroke. “The walk made for an enjoyable gathering of YNHHS employees and our community to support the initiatives of the American Heart Association, which include providing educational material for patients and professionals, automatic blood pressure cuffs for participants at local community health events and supporting research and technological advancements to improve outcomes related to heart disease and stroke,” said Joe Petreycik, cardiac rehab program coordinator.

The Hometown Foundation will be hosting their 2023 Dream Ride Event at the Farmington Polo Club from August 25 to August 27. Featuring live music, food trucks, family fun zones, raffles and more, the event aims to promote inclusivity, celebrate the accomplishments of the Dream Riders, and provide a fun-filled day for the entire community. For those interested in volunteering, sign up at Dream Ride Experience 2023 or email Sabrina Fonteyn.

The Community Outreach Committee (COC) is instrumental in carrying out NEMG’s mission to help the communities we serve. For information or to join, contact Robert Mitchell, 203-384-5109. Watch for more information on committee initiatives.