In the Community Archives - UCR Health https://www.ucrhealth.org/blog/category/in-the-community/ Bringing Health Home Fri, 30 Jan 2026 00:03:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 In the Community – November 2025 Event Recaps https://www.ucrhealth.org/blog/2025/12/16/in-the-community-november-2025-event-recaps/ Tue, 16 Dec 2025 10:19:34 +0000 https://www.ucrhealth.org/?p=7717 As we close out the year, UCR Health reflects on the meaningful connections built throughout November and early December. From engaging with families at UCR Homecoming and the MetroLink Holiday Express to hosting educational talks at the Janet Goeske Senior Center and the UCR Emeriti Luncheon, our teams were out in the community promoting wellness, […]

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As we close out the year, UCR Health reflects on the meaningful connections built throughout November and early December. From engaging with families at UCR Homecoming and the MetroLink Holiday Express to hosting educational talks at the Janet Goeske Senior Center and the UCR Emeriti Luncheon, our teams were out in the community promoting wellness, education, and access to care. Each event highlighted our continued commitment to supporting healthy aging, inspiring future healthcare professionals, and strengthening relationships across the Inland Empire through compassion, collaboration, and community partnership.

Event Recap: UCR Homecoming November 8, 2025

The UCR Health Brand Ambassador team enjoyed connecting with the campus community at UCR Homecoming. Around 100-115 attendees stopped by our table—many of them learning for the first time that UCR Health is available as a care option. Visitors shared great energy throughout the day, and, in true Homecoming fashion, foot traffic slowed the moment Ludacris hit the stage!

Event Recap: Dr. Khayat-Khoeí on Brain Health at the Goeske Center November 14, 2025

Dr. Khayat-Khoeí met with a wonderful group of seniors at the Goeske Center to talk about brain health, aging, and simple daily habits that support well-being. Nearly 50 attendees joined and stayed for a lively Q&A, with many expressing how valuable the DocTalk series has been and asking for her information to continue their care journey.

Event Recap: Dr. Sadek on Heart Health at the Goeske Center December 2, 2025

Dr. Sadek visited the Janet Goeske Senior Center to share an informative talk on heart health and aging. He discussed common warning signs, treatment options, and lifestyle changes that support cardiovascular health. Seniors were engaged throughout the presentation and appreciative of the practical guidance shared.

Event Recap: Dr. Tuqan on Healthy Aging at the UCR Emeriti Luncheon December 5, 2025

Dr. Tuqan joined the UCR Emeriti Luncheon as a guest speaker to share insights on healthy aging. Her talk focused on the 4 M’s of geriatrics and how they apply to older adults, along with practical resources to help attendees get started. The audience was warm and highly engaged, with an active Q&A that reflected strong interest in the topic.

Event Recap: MetroLink Holiday Express — Teddy Bear Clinic December 7, 2025

On December 7, UCR Health brought its Teddy Bear Clinic to the MetroLink Holiday Express in San Bernardino. UCR Health physicians and UCR School of Medicine students welcomed families as children helped give their teddy bears checkups—sparking curiosity about healthcare while strengthening UCR Health’s presence in the community. Many families expressed interest in continuing care, especially with Spanish-speaking providers, highlighting the importance of accessible, community-centered services.

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In the Community – October 2025 Event Recaps https://www.ucrhealth.org/blog/2025/11/10/in-the-community-october-2025-event-recaps/ Mon, 10 Nov 2025 16:04:21 +0000 https://www.ucrhealth.org/?p=7648 As we celebrate this season of gratitude, UCR Health reflects on the meaningful connections built throughout October and early November. Our teams were out in the community promoting wellness, education, and access to care—from the Montclair Community Health Fair and Dr. Raja’s Senior Lecture on Joint and Bone Health to Becker’s CEO + CFO Roundtable […]

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As we celebrate this season of gratitude, UCR Health reflects on the meaningful connections built throughout October and early November. Our teams were out in the community promoting wellness, education, and access to care—from the Montclair Community Health Fair and Dr. Raja’s Senior Lecture on Joint and Bone Health to Becker’s CEO + CFO Roundtable and the UCPath and UCR Benefits Fairs. Each event showcased our ongoing commitment to improving health and well-being across the Inland Empire through compassion, collaboration, and community partnership.

Event Recap: Montclair Community Health Fair (October 2, 2025)

UCR Health joined the Montclair Community Health Fair, which brought together local healthcare providers to offer free screenings and vaccines. Over 100 attendees visited the UCR Health table to learn about available services, and several were connected directly to appointment scheduling. The event fostered meaningful community engagement and new partnership opportunities.

Event Recap: Dr. Raja's Senior Lecture on Joint and Bone Health (October 6, 2025)

Dr. Naveen Raja visited the Janet Goeske Senior Center to speak on osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and joint health in older adults. Around 50 seniors attended the interactive lecture, and several expressed interest in scheduling appointments for continued care and guidance.

Event Recap: Becker's 13th Annual CEO + CFO Roundtable (November 3 - 6, 2025)

CEO Tim Collins joined national healthcare leaders at Becker's 13th Annual CEO + CFO Roundtable to discuss how collaboration and trust between executives strengthen organizational resilience and advance high-quality patient care. 

Listen to Tim's Becker's Healthcare Podcast on access, workforce, and collaboration in the Inland Empire. 

Event Recap: UC Paths Fair (November 5, 2025)

The UCR Health Brand Ambassador team connected with nearly 200 employees at the UCPath Benefits Fair to share news about UCR Health joining the UC Health Plans network. Attendees showed strong interest in switching to UC Health Plans and appreciated learning about convenient access to care through the UCR Health Network.

Event Recap: UCR Employee Benefits Fair (November 6, 2025)

The UCR Health Marketing Team and Brand Ambassadors connected with nearly 200 employees at the UCR Benefits Fair to share information about UCR Health’s participation in UC Health Plans. Attendees showed strong interest in exploring the plans and appreciated learning that UCR Health is a care provider, not an insurance provider, offering convenient access to quality care across the region.

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In the Community – September 2025 Event Recaps https://www.ucrhealth.org/blog/2025/10/08/in-the-community-september-2025-event-recaps/ Wed, 08 Oct 2025 20:08:00 +0000 https://www.ucrhealth.org/?p=7531 In September, UCR Health continued its community outreach across the Inland Empire, participating in the Life Way Church Community Health Fair, the New Highlander Welcome, Dr. Tuqan’s Senior Lecture at the Janet Goeske Center, and the UCR SOM Latino Physician Celebration Day. These events connected UCR Health with hundreds of residents, employees, and students—highlighting topics […]

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In September, UCR Health continued its community outreach across the Inland Empire, participating in the Life Way Church Community Health Fair, the New Highlander Welcome, Dr. Tuqan’s Senior Lecture at the Janet Goeske Center, and the UCR SOM Latino Physician Celebration Day. These events connected UCR Health with hundreds of residents, employees, and students—highlighting topics from healthy aging and maternal wellness to chronic disease prevention and the UC Blue & Gold Health Plan. Together, these efforts reflect UCR Health’s commitment to education, engagement, and accessible care for all.

Event Recap: Life Way Church Community Health Fair (September 13, 2025)

UCR Health connected with nearly 200 Inland Empire community members at the Life Way Church Health Fair. Dr. Brenda Ross, Clinical Research Program Administrator Herlinda Bergman, and our medical students provided education on Peripheral Artery Disease and the Milk Depot, while building stronger community relationships. The event also created meaningful opportunities to expand our outreach in senior care.

Event Recap: New Highlander Welcome (September 18, 2025)

At the September 18 New Highlander Welcome, CEO Tim Collins emphasized the value of the UC Blue & Gold Health Plan, encouraging employees to choose UCR Health for their care. He also shared updates on UCR Health’s growth and commitment to expanding access across the Inland Empire.

Event Recap: Dr. Tuqan's Senior Lecture (September 24, 2025)

UCR Health launched its new senior lecture series at the Janet Goeske Center, where Dr. Alia Tuqan led an engaging session on healthy aging and preventive care. The event brought together Riverside seniors eager to stay informed and proactive about their health, reflecting UCR Health’s ongoing commitment to community wellness. Read Dr. Tuqan's Q&A for more insights on healthy aging.

Event Recap: UCR SOM Latino Physician Celebration Day (September 30, 2025)

UCR Health participated in the Latino Physician Celebration Day on September 30, connecting with over 40 attendees from across the Inland Empire. The event provided an opportunity to engage with students, faculty, and community members about UCR Health services and the UC Blue & Gold Health Plan ahead of Open Enrollment.

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In the Community – August 2025 Event Recaps https://www.ucrhealth.org/blog/2025/09/04/in-the-community-august-2025-event-recaps/ Thu, 04 Sep 2025 19:14:22 +0000 https://www.ucrhealth.org/?p=7029 In August, UCR Health joined the Celebrating Black Motherhood Health Fair, the ONT x LAFC Watch Party, and the Spill the Tea, Not the Milk event, connecting with hundreds of community members. These events highlighted our commitment to maternal health, wellness, and outreach across the Inland Empire. Event Recap: Celebrating Black Motherhood 8/16/2025 On August 16, […]

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In August, UCR Health joined the Celebrating Black Motherhood Health Fair, the ONT x LAFC Watch Party, and the Spill the Tea, Not the Milk event, connecting with hundreds of community members. These events highlighted our commitment to maternal health, wellness, and outreach across the Inland Empire.

Event Recap: Celebrating Black Motherhood 8/16/2025

On August 16, UCR Health joined the Celebrating Black Motherhood Community Health Fair at the IEHP Center for Innovation and Learning. The event drew ~80–100 attendees and featured a powerful panel of maternal health experts who shared insights and opened the floor for community stories. UCR Health was proud to support this celebration of maternal health and equity.

Event Recap: ONT x LAFC Watch Party 8/23/2025

On August 23, UCR Health participated in the ONT x LAFC Community Fair and Watch Party, which drew ~150–200 attendees. Over 80 visitors stopped by our table, engaging with our team and sharing positive feedback. The energy of the sports-focused crowd made for a lively event, and we were proud to connect with community members from both Los Angeles and the Inland Empire. 

Event Recap: Spill the Tea, Not the Milk 8/28/2025

On August 28, UCR Health joined the Spill the Tea, Not the Milk celebration at Living Way Christian Fellowship in Moreno Valley, held in honor of Black Breastfeeding Week. The event drew over 100 Black mothers in person, with additional attendees tuning in virtually for featured speakers. UCR Health’s table served as an important resource point—several attendees received information on pediatric services and Dr. Ross’s clinic, with at least four individuals planning to schedule visits. Many community members also picked up flyers on the Milk Donor program, highlighting ongoing interest in maternal and infant health initiatives. The event was a meaningful opportunity to celebrate Black motherhood and strengthen connections to care in the Inland Empire.

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Ontario International Airport’s Refreshed Nursing Rooms Support Breastfeeding Awareness Month https://www.ucrhealth.org/blog/2025/08/11/black-breastfeeding-week-bridging-the-gap-in-maternal-health-equity/ Mon, 11 Aug 2025 13:31:31 +0000 https://www.ucrhealth.org/?p=6783 August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of breastfeeding and ensure that all parents have the resources, spaces, and support they need to nourish their children. This nationwide observance emphasizes not only the health benefits of breastfeeding, but also the role that access, representation, and culturally competent care play in […]

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August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of breastfeeding and ensure that all parents have the resources, spaces, and support they need to nourish their children. This nationwide observance emphasizes not only the health benefits of breastfeeding, but also the role that access, representation, and culturally competent care play in supporting families.

In line with this commitment, Ontario International Airport (ONT), in collaboration with UCR Health, has upgraded its private, secure, and fully furnished nursing rooms in Terminal 2 and Terminal 4. These single-occupancy lactation rooms give mothers a comfortable and private place to breastfeed or pump when they travel. Each lounge is furnished with padded benches and an electrical outlet, and equipped with a changing space. Although they are not attached to restrooms, a restroom is conveniently located nearby.

Where to Find Them

  • Terminal 2 – Located on the 2nd floor past TSA screening, across from Gate 207, next to the Women’s Restroom.
  • Terminal 4 – Located on the 2nd floor past TSA screening, across from Gate 407, next to the Family Restroom.

Spotlight: Black Breastfeeding Week

Black Breastfeeding Week is observed August 25–31 to raise awareness among the general public about the ongoing racial disparities in breastfeeding. While 84% of U.S. infants are breastfed at birth, only 74% of Black infants begin — and by six months, fewer than 45% are still breastfed, compared to nearly 60% of white infants. The campaign was founded by Kimberly Seals Allers, Kiddada Green, and Anayah Sangodele-Ayoka and addresses the limited access to culturally competent breastfeeding support, unstable leave policies, and limited representation through mentoring, peer networking, advocacy, and storytelling.

Community Connection

This month, on Saturday, August 16, 2025, UCR Health will participate in the Celebration of Black Motherhood at the IEHP Center for Learning and Innovation - an event that is centered on creating culturally affirming spaces where Black mothers feel seen, heard, and supported.

ONT's revitalized nursing rooms share this vision: to ensure that every family, from every background, is able to access safe, comfortable, and inclusive spaces to care for their child during travel. Constructed to California Building Code and ADA standards, these lounges are part of an ongoing commitment to health equity and family-friendly travel.

Looking Ahead

Breastfeeding Awareness Month is more than just a health observance. It is a movement to ensure every family has access, representation, and support in every space. From community events like the Celebration of Black Motherhood to public spaces such as ONT’s newly remodeled nursing rooms, UCR Health is working on creating a future for every parent to feel welcomed and for every child to have the healthiest start.

About UCR Health

UCR Health is comprised of a team of physicians, specialists, and healthcare professionals dedicated to improving people’s health. With four medical offices located throughout the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, UCR Health is growing to meet the healthcare needs of the region, bringing innovative, culturally sensitive medical care to the community. Established alongside the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside, UCR Health’s patient-centered primary care and specialty services deliver university-based healthcare excellence and innovation to all communities.

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Path of Life Ministries: 2nd Annual Back-to-School Event https://www.ucrhealth.org/blog/2024/09/04/path-of-life-ministries-2nd-annual-back-to-school-event/ Wed, 04 Sep 2024 21:30:09 +0000 https://www.ucrhealth.org/?p=5366 In August, UCR Health proudly partnered with Path of Life Ministries for their 2nd Annual Back-to-School event, right here in our Riverside community! Path of Life Ministries offers emergency shelter to families and individuals experiencing homelessness, where they are provided with additional resources and support. Thanks to our gracious donors, backpacks and school supplies were […]

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In August, UCR Health proudly partnered with Path of Life Ministries for their 2nd Annual Back-to-School event, right here in our Riverside community! Path of Life Ministries offers emergency shelter to families and individuals experiencing homelessness, where they are provided with additional resources and support.

Thanks to our gracious donors, backpacks and school supplies were distributed to young guests. In addition, UCR Health offered free health screenings, helping to promote wellness and ensure that young students are starting the school year healthy and ready to learn.

Events like this highlight the power of collaboration and the importance of community partnerships in addressing the challenges faced by those in need. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to making this event a success and for continuing to support our mission to uplift our local community.

Check out the UCR Health team in action from the heartwarming event: 

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National Minority Health Month https://www.ucrhealth.org/blog/2024/04/22/national-minority-health-month/ Mon, 22 Apr 2024 23:23:34 +0000 https://www.ucrhealth.org/?p=5056 Better health for all April is National Minority Health Month (NMHM) and this year's theme is Be the Source for Better Health. UCR Health is committed to being that source by working with public health and community-based partners to provide quality care and services that are responsive to diverse cultural health beliefs and practices, preferred […]

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Better health for all

April is National Minority Health Month (NMHM) and this year's theme is Be the Source for Better Health. UCR Health is committed to being that source by working with public health and community-based partners to provide quality care and services that are responsive to diverse cultural health beliefs and practices, preferred languages, and economic and environmental circumstances. We’re here to help make health better for all.

This month, we’re celebrating YOU

Many of our communities face health care challenges including limited access to care, higher rates of chronic conditions, and poor health outcomes. For example, African Americans are 30 percent more likely to die from heart disease, 50 percent more likely to have a stroke, and 30 percent more likely to have asthma. Hispanic Americans and Latinx are 70 percent more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes. 

UCR Health and National Minority Health Awareness

UCR Health is committed to addressing minority health issues as we work to improve access to quality, compassionate care. It's our goal to provide healthcare programs that specifically address the health of those considered minorities. We want to:

  • Incorporate the perspective of lived experiences
  • Integrate safety net providers
  • Include community-based organizations in our plans

During National Minority Health Awareness Month and all months, we’re working toward eliminating avoidable differences in health outcomes, increasing access to the kinds of better care that will help, and getting you out and moving to help ensure better health for all. 

To speak with a UCR Health physician, please visit https://www.ucrhealth.org/make-an-appointment/ or give us a call at 1-844-827-8000.

Additional Resource: hhs.gov/national-minority-health-month/

About UCR Health

UCR Health is comprised of a team of physicians, specialists, and healthcare professionals dedicated to improving people’s health. With five medical offices located throughout the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, UCR Health is growing to meet the healthcare needs of the region, bringing innovative, culturally sensitive medical care to the community. Established alongside the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside, UCR Health’s patient-centered primary care and specialty services deliver university-based healthcare excellence and innovation to all communities.

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