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To celebrate Public Health Week on campus, students from The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth’s School of Public Health have planned a weeklong series of events that kicked off on Monday.

The Community Health Block party featured more than 20 campus organizations who set up tables to dole out swag, provide free services (like SaferCare Texas’ blood-sugar screening) and raise awareness of their departments. Food trucks and bounce houses were also set up on the lawn in front of the Medical Education & Training building.

“As public health practitioners, our first duty is to serve the community and public, and we wanted to have an event that did just that,” said Theresa Agwuncha, a second-year SPH student who was one of the events’ organizers. “We wanted to create an event that not only promoted public health awareness but also brought the community together. That’s why we organized the Community Health Block Party, which aimed to increase awareness about available health services while providing them at little to no cost. We were thrilled to see the community engage with the various activities and booths, which ranged from free health screenings to interactive games. It was heartwarming to witness the impact of our collective efforts in creating a positive and fun-filled event that brought the community closer.”

Tuesday, self-defense class

In honor of Violence Prevention Day for Public Health Week, SPH is offering a self-defense class. This class will teach practical techniques to keep you safe. There will be two sessions of lessons — one from 11 a.m. to noon and the other from noon to 1 p.m. — in IREB 350.

Wednesday, reproductive health panel

At noon in RES 100, SPH is hosting a panel discussion, “Centering Reproductive in Health.” Panelists will explore the importance of reproductive health, discuss barriers to access, and strategize ways to improve equity in reproductive health care.

Thursday, mental wellness workshop

From noon to 2 p.m., the Mental Wellness Workshop will teach participants ways to recognize the warning signs of suicide and support someone who may be at risk with the QPR training session. Attendees will gain valuable insights and practical tips on managing stress, avoiding burnout, and prioritizing self-care.

Friday, rural health panel

At noon, the festivities conclude with a virtual panel focused on rural health. Hear from health care professionals about their experiences, challenges and successes in providing health care to rural communities. Gain valuable insights into the unique health care needs of rural populations and the strategies being implemented to improve rural health outcomes.

“We cannot express enough gratitude and admiration for the exceptional effort and dedication that went into the planning of Public Health Week and the Community Health Block Party,” Agwuncha continued. “The success of this event is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of many individuals and organizations, but it was the supportive and willing network of people that made it all possible.”

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