Bridging Health Care and Community Through Hands-On Experiences

This past year, Trinity Health Ann Arbor graduated its first round of passionate community leaders from the Trinity Health Academy: Community Division. The Academy participants went through an engaging and immersive educational experience designed to bridge the gap between health care and the communities it serves. Community-based organization leaders explored health programs through field experiences, interactive trainings, and dynamic lectures. This was a unique opportunity for Trinity Health Ann Arbor to bring to life the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) and CHNA Implementation Strategy. 

Over the course of four sessions, participants gained exposure to both traditional and non-traditional health care initiatives, while engaging in vital discussions aimed at uplifting the communities they serve. Whether participants’ interest was food access, workforce development, or mental health, this program was tailored to provide valuable insights for professionals and practical resources for the clients they serve.  

A Glimpse into the Four-Part Series

Session 1: Introduction to the Trinity Health Academy 

The first session kicked off with an introduction to the Trinity Health Academy, featuring remarks from Alonzo Lewis, president of Trinity Health Ann Arbor, Livingston, Oakland and Livonia. Participants also had the opportunity to explore Trinity Health’s Simulation Lab, where they learned about the critical role of access to health care services in improving health outcomes. 

Session 2: Food Access and Healthy Living

Session two focused on the critical issue of food access, with participants touring the Trinity Health Farm and participating in Lifestyle Medicine programs.

Session 3: Housing & Workforce Development

Participants heard about Trinity Health’s partnership with the Center for Employment Opportunities and the Washtenaw Housing Alliance. In addition, participants toured House N2Home and Dress for Success to showcase how Trinity Health is uniquely utilizing its properties to support community-based organizations. 

Session 4: Mental Health and Trauma-Informed Care

The final session focused on mental health, trauma-informed care, and life-saving techniques. Participants were introduced to resources available in the community for mental health support and received training on administering naloxone to reverse opioid overdoses. A Stop the Bleed instructor led hands-on training on how to stop traumatic bleeding and use a tourniquet effectively. 

By the end of the program, participants received a certificate of completion, marking not just the end of an educational experience but the beginning of deeper relationships between Trinity Health and its partners.

More Than Just a Program—A Transformative Experience

The Trinity Health Academy: Community Division is more than just an educational series. It is a transformative opportunity that strengthens our community’s health and well-being through connection, collaboration, and learning.

What’s Next?

This Spring, Trinity Health Ann Arbor is hosting its second cohort of Trinity Health Academy: Community Division. This cohort is made up of our very own Trinity Health patients who will engage in a three-part series all about mastering heart health and creating a roadmap to wellness.