American University of the Caribbean (AUC)’s long-standing Community Action Day is so much more than just a fun event; it is a testament to our deep commitment to engaging holistically with the development of our medical students. Eagerly anticipated each semester on the Sint Maarten campus, this day is a celebration of service, learning, and community collaboration, bringing students, faculty, and local organizations together in a collective effort to improve public health and environmental sustainability.
Community Action Day is defined by an emphasis on long-term, meaningful engagement as opposed to short-term volunteerism. As Dr. Natalie Humphrey, AUC’s assistant dean of community engagement, explains, “Our approach is about building lasting relationships with community members and stakeholders, promoting participation, and fostering a sense of ownership over decisions and actions that impact the community.” AUC students work closely alongside local organizations to identify pressing needs, from health education to environmental cleanups, and even health screenings of all types. This collaboration ensures that our initiatives are not only impactful but sustainable, fostering a sense of ownership from the community and strengthening their long-term impact.
This day is hugely beneficial to AUC students, to whom it offers a unique opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world health care challenges. By engaging directly with the local population, students gain insight into the social determinants of health that contribute to disparities in care. This hands-on experience is a crucial part in developing their cultural humility, communication, teamwork, and other qualities that are essential for health care professionals.
Community Action Day is more than a tradition at AUC; it’s an example of how important it is to embed ourselves into our communities and become catalysts for change. AUC faculty members are immensely proud of students. “Witnessing the positive impact of our students’ hard work and dedication in the local community has been truly fulfilling,” Dr. Humphrey says. “It’s been a joy to see our students connect with others and apply their classroom knowledge in practical, meaningful ways.”
New opportunities for service learning are posted on Volunteer.sx weekly. Once you access Volunteer.sx with the QR code below, follow the prompts to register with AUC’s portal, then confirm via a link sent to your email. See detailed instructions for joining the portal.
