At Indiana University School of Medicine, the Terre Haute regional campus is a hub for robust service-learning, with a strong focus on rural community health. These programs enhance medical student education through immersive community engagement. Every IU School of Medicine student has access to a wide array of service-learning experiences, both within and outside the curriculum. Central to the school’s mission, faculty and mentors instill in students the critical role of advocating for community health and well-being.
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Connect with IU School of Medicine for opportunities to get involved with community engagement and service learning programs.
Local Programs
Organized annually each April by medical students at Indiana University School of Medicine—Terre Haute, the Terre Haute Community Health Fair brings together Wabash Valley healthcare organizations to educate area residents on health improvement. This popular event offers a wide array of programs, including educational exhibits on personal health, fitness classes, massage therapy, and free screenings for hearing, vision, blood sugar, BMI, and blood pressure. Key exhibits often highlight diabetes, nutrition, and osteoporosis, complemented by engaging health and wellness activities for children.
The Mollie R Wheat Memorial Clinic, a no-cost, student-run health and wellness clinic based out of Terre Haute, has been dedicated to serving the community and its surrounding areas since its establishment in 2013. Founded with the vision of assisting medically underserved, uninsured and underinsured patients from both Indiana and Illinois, the clinic is uniquely operated by Indiana University School of Medicine students and public health undergraduate students, working under the expert supervision of volunteer physicians. Its primary purpose is to provide comprehensive care, including wellness checks, routine and specialty health screenings, vaccines, lab testing and vital patient education. Open to the public on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month from 8 a.m. until noon, the clinic has consistently provided care to hundreds of patients, with its reach and numbers continuing to grow.
Established in 1971, Happiness Bag is dedicated to unlocking the unique potential of children and adults with disabilities by providing adapted educational and recreational services. The adult program, for instance, primarily focuses on person-centered activities designed to increase or maintain daily living skills and develop abilities essential for everyday life. Both the adult program and the children's summer camp also offer vital respite for caregivers, allowing them crucial time for self-care. Services are accessible through Medicaid waivers or private pay options. IU School of Medicine—Terre Haute medical students have built a strong partnership with Happiness Bag, volunteering their time to engage with the "friends" (participants). Through play and shared activities, these volunteers not only foster fun and build connections but also gain new skills. Ultimately, their small acts of kindness create a world of difference for the participants and their families at Happiness Bag.
This local charity provides essential after-school services to at-risk youth, offering recreational sports, activity classes (like baking, Bible study, music, art and crafts), homework help, meals and general care to all participating children. IU School of Medicine—Terre Haute medical students have forged a strong partnership with Ryves Hall, serving as mentors, coaches and tutors to these youth. This relationship exposes the children to the joys of a big brother/sister dynamic, promoting their interest in academic success, hobbies, athletics and overall wellness. Medical students involved in the Ryves Hall program actively help these youth develop inquisitive minds and the desire to become successful students and engaged community members.