Welcome to the Access Strategy and Partnerships Office (ASPO) Program Spotlight Series where we’ll be showcasing the incredible work taking place across the access community at U of T. Today we’re highlighting the Dalla Lana School of Public Health Outreach and Access Program which was developed to help students from underserved communities explore opportunities for leadership in health and health systems.

The program was established in 2019 in partnership with Marc Garneau Collegiate Institute and The Neighborhood Organization in the Thorncliffe Park Neighborhood. Since then, it has expanded to serve multiple neighborhoods across the Greater Toronto Area.

The program fosters longitudinal support by offering year-round opportunities. The journey begins during the academic year where students participate in mentorship and life skills training workshops that are facilitated by faculty and students. Upon completion, they’re invited to join a week-long summer internship that is designed to strengthen their leadership skills and deepen their understandings of public health concepts. Those with admissions into a U of T undergraduate program are given the opportunity to enroll into the Fitzgerald Junior Fellowship Program which offers ongoing mentorship, leadership and financial supports.

In 2024, the program supported 200 students with the help of 52 Dalla Lana students, alumni, and public health professionals. This past summer, students engaged in a week-long series of activity-based, team learning of public health disciplines centered around a case study.

They also got the opportunity to supplement classroom learning with site visits to places like the University Health Network, Anishnawbe Health Toronto, Li-Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, and Centre for Digital Therapeutics. 4 students have joined the Fitzgerald Junior Fellowship Program where they’ll be receiving ongoing supports.

To learn more about the program, please visit www.dlsph.utoronto.ca/outreach-access-program/

October 23, 2024