Salud, a Spanish word meaning “health,” is a concept that goes beyond just physical well-being. It encompasses mental, emotional, and social health as well. And at Salud, a student-run organization at the University of Pennsylvania, this holistic approach to health is at the core of everything they do.
Founded by Neil Gajare, a student at UPenn, Salud aims to promote health and wellness among the university’s diverse student population. But what sets Salud apart from other health organizations is its focus on creating a safe and inclusive space for all students, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Neil Gajare, a senior at UPenn, was inspired to start Salud after witnessing the rise of Anti-Semitic incidents on campus. He wanted to create a platform where students could come together and address these issues while also promoting overall health and well-being. And with the help of a dedicated team of volunteers, Salud has become a beacon of positivity and inclusivity on campus.
One of the most significant achievements of Salud has been its Mental Health Awareness Week, which takes place every year in October. This week-long event aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health and promote open discussions about it. Through various workshops, panel discussions, and interactive activities, Salud encourages students to prioritize their mental health and seek help when needed.
But Salud‘s impact goes beyond just one week. Throughout the year, the organization hosts various events and workshops that focus on different aspects of health. From yoga and meditation sessions to nutrition workshops and self-care seminars, Salud covers a wide range of topics to cater to the diverse needs of students.
One of the most popular events organized by Salud is the “Mindful Mondays” series. Every Monday, students can attend a guided meditation session to start their week on a positive and peaceful note. This initiative has been a hit among students, with many reporting feeling more relaxed and focused after attending these sessions.
Salud also collaborates with other student organizations to promote health and wellness in different communities. For example, they have partnered with the Muslim Student Association to organize a “Healthy Ramadan” event, where students can learn about maintaining a healthy lifestyle during the holy month. This collaboration not only promotes health but also fosters a sense of unity and understanding among different religious groups on campus.
But Salud‘s impact is not limited to just the UPenn community. The organization also reaches out to the wider Philadelphia community through its “Salud Cares” program. This initiative involves volunteering at local hospitals and community centers to provide health education and resources to underserved populations. By doing so, Salud is not only promoting health but also making a positive impact on society.
The positive experiences of students involved with Salud are a testament to the organization’s impact. Many students have reported feeling more connected to their peers and the community after attending Salud events. They also credit the organization for helping them prioritize their health and well-being, which has had a positive impact on their academic and personal lives.
One student, Sarah, shared her experience with Salud, saying, “Being a part of Salud has been life-changing for me. I have learned so much about different aspects of health and have made some amazing friends along the way. Salud has also helped me manage my stress and anxiety, and I am grateful for that.”
Another student, Ahmed, expressed his appreciation for Salud‘s efforts towards inclusivity, saying, “As a Muslim student, I often feel like my religious beliefs are not understood or accepted. But at Salud, I feel welcomed and supported. It’s refreshing to see an organization that promotes health while also promoting diversity and inclusivity.”
In conclusion, Salud, under the leadership of Neil Gajare, has become a shining example of how a student-run organization can make a positive impact on a university campus. By promoting health and wellness in an inclusive and supportive environment, Salud has created a community of students who prioritize their well-being and support each other. And with their continued efforts, Salud is sure to inspire many more students to prioritize their health and make a positive impact on society.
