GSDM Staff Volunteers At Local Wellness Night
Two Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine (GSDM) staff members volunteered their time on Thursday, May 14, at the first annual Family Wellness Night, which took place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Cleveland Community Center in Dorchester. The GSDM volunteers were School Based Program Coordinator Paula Pina and Research Dental Assistant Daniel Nayebi.
The first annual Family Wellness Night was put on by Urban Science Academy and West Roxbury Academy. The event was designed to help students and their families learn tips to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Urban Science Academy is a Roxbury-based high school that offers an engaging science and technology curriculum designed to prepare students for college success. The school has a 74.6 four-year-graduation rate. West Roxbury Academy is a high school in West Roxbury that offers a rigorous curriculum emphasizing business, graphic arts, and marketing seeking to prepare students for both a college education and the job market.
The two GSDM volunteers spoke to students and parents from both schools at the Family Wellness Night about proper oral healthcare while handing out a toothbrush and toothpaste to each person they talked to.
Mr. Nayebi said the event was fun and helpful for the students and parents who attended.
“Overall, the event lasted approximately 3 hours,” said Mr. Nayebi. “It was very small, but it was a fun, energetic night with a nice array of vendors, each with a unique presentation perfectly suited for the night’s theme.”
Other activities during the Family Wellness night included a free fitness class, a raffle, and a special “simulation grocery tour” in which 25 participants received a $10 gift card to a local grocery store. Food for the event was provided by Boloco.
“Volunteering in the local community is an important way for our faculty, staff, and students to increase awareness about crucial issues in oral health,” said Dean Jeffrey W. Hutter. “I am proud of Paula and Daniel for taking time out of their busy schedules to serve the community in such a much needed way.”