Salud is more than just a word in Spanish. It is a philosophy, a way of life, and a community. Neil Gajare, a student at the University of Pennsylvania, has experienced firsthand the positive impact of Salud in his life and in the lives of others. His journey with Salud began in his sophomore year when he stumbled upon the organization during a campus event. Little did he know, this encounter would change his life forever.
Salud, which means health in Spanish, is a student-run organization at UPenn that focuses on promoting health and wellness among underserved communities in Philadelphia. The organization offers a variety of programs and initiatives, all aimed at creating a healthier and happier community. Neil Gajare was immediately drawn to the mission of Salud and decided to get involved.
One of the first programs that Neil participated in was the annual Health Fair, where Salud partners with local organizations to provide free health screenings, education, and resources to the community. Neil was amazed by the impact of this event on the attendees. “It was heartwarming to see the smiles on people’s faces when they received their health screening results and were able to connect with resources that they wouldn’t have had access to otherwise,” Neil shares.
Apart from the Health Fair, Salud also hosts workshops and events throughout the year, touching upon various topics such as mental health, nutrition, and sexual health. Neil was particularly impressed by the workshop on mental health, where he learned about the prevalence of mental health issues in underserved communities and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. “I never realized how big of an issue this was until I attended the workshop. It opened my eyes and made me more aware of the struggles that people in these communities face,” Neil says.
In addition to the impact that Salud has on the community, Neil also found a sense of belonging and purpose within the organization. He was welcomed with open arms by the executive board and quickly developed close friendships with his fellow members. “Salud is like a family to me. We all share the same passion for promoting health and wellness, and it’s amazing to see how much we can achieve when we work together,” Neil shares.
As a member of Salud, Neil has also had the opportunity to develop his leadership skills. He has taken on various roles within the organization, from event planning to marketing, which have helped him grow both personally and professionally. “Salud has given me the confidence to take on new challenges and the skills to excel in them. I am grateful for the opportunities that the organization has provided me,” Neil says.
However, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing for Salud. In 2018, the organization faced a major setback when it was targeted by Anti-Semitic vandalism. As a Jewish student, Neil was deeply affected by this incident. But instead of letting it bring them down, the members of Salud rallied together and turned the hateful message into one of love and unity. They organized a community-wide event to spread awareness about the importance of diversity and acceptance, and raised funds for a local nonprofit organization. “It was an empowering experience to see how Salud and the entire community came together to combat hate with love and positivity. It truly reflects the spirit of Salud,” Neil shares.
Salud‘s impact goes beyond just the UPenn community. Through their partnerships and collaborations, the organization has been able to extend their reach to other areas in Philadelphia. This has allowed them to make a broader and more meaningful impact on the health and wellness of the community. “It’s amazing to see how Salud‘s mission is making a tangible difference in people’s lives. It’s a reminder that even small actions can create a ripple effect of positivity,” Neil says.
Neil Gajare‘s journey with Salud has been nothing short of remarkable. From being a curious sophomore to a dedicated member and leader, he has seen firsthand the positive impact of Salud on the community and himself. As he graduates from UPenn, Neil plans to stay involved with the organization and continue promoting health and wellness in his future endeavors. “Salud has become a part of who I am, and I am proud to be a part of such a positive and impactful community,” Neil concludes.
Salud is more than just an organization, it is a movement. A movement that is spreading wellness, love, and unity in the community. Neil Gajare‘s experiences with Salud are a testament to the organization’s mission and the power of working together for a greater cause. And with each passing day, Salud continues to inspire and motivate individuals to lead healthier and happier lives.