April 22, 2026
College of Health Sciences Students Host Community Wellness Event for Local Youth
Students from the Interprofessional Practice Club and Pre-Physician Assistant Club recently partnered with the West Chester Community Center to host a wellness-focused event for local youth during WCU’s spring break.
Supported by WCU’s College of Health Sciences (CHS) Community Engagement Fund, the initiative brought together local youth for hands-on learning centered on stretching and physical activity. The event also featured appearances by WCU mascot Rammy and members of the WCU’s men’s and women’s basketball teams.
Participants began the day with guided instruction on proper stretching techniques before moving into the gym for one-on-one activities and informal games. The program concluded with a group pizza gathering, providing time for participants, students, and families to connect.
Faculty Advisor Dr. Megan Mraz said the event reflects the broader impact of community-engaged learning.
“The Community Engagement Grant made this event possible in a way that extended beyond a single afternoon at the gym,” Mraz said. “It became a memory our students and kids in the community will carry with them. It supported not only the physical health of our community neighbors, but their sense of belonging, confidence, and joy.”
She added, “Watching our students laugh, encourage one another, and give back to their community using the knowledge that they have gained in our classroom was incredibly powerful. These moments shape who they become as students and as people and professionals. It allowed us to fulfill our mission to lead with compassion and build a stronger, healthier community.”
The initiative highlights the role of the CHS Community Engagement Fund in supporting experiential learning opportunities that empower students to apply their academic knowledge in meaningful, real-world settings while strengthening community partnerships.
From leading wellness activities to building genuine connections, CHS students demonstrated their commitment to service and their growth as future health professionals while making a lasting impression on the community they serve.