Recently, our PA students volunteered at an event, called MedFest, where they helped perform sports physical screenings on Special Olympics athletes of Orange County. This event is complimentary to athletes, and at each MedFest they screen between 40 and 60 athletes. This fall, they also volunteered at the Special Olympics Games in the Health Promotion sector of the event. They provided education about healthy diet, hydration habits, sun safety, tobacco use, exercise, weight and blood pressure for athletes and their families. Our Chapman PA students are passionate about volunteering with the Special Olympics community and have learned a lot throughout the process about patient education, healthcare provider adaptability, and physical exam skills.

“I love volunteering with the Special Olympics community with my classmates and faculty members because we get to help expand health access and education. It is so rewarding to learn from the Special Olympics athletes and watch them progress from their sports physicals all the way to participating in their respective sporting events, which is a culmination of all their hard work. As students, service with Special Olympics is a great way to remind ourselves of our passions for health advocacy outside of the classroom.” – Katelyn Dykhuis, ’23, Physician Assistant Studies Student

special olympics