We link students to health careers, professionals to educational resources and citizens to healthy living.

Youth Health Service Corps

(Grades 9th thru 12th)

Youth Health Service Corps, a nationally recognized health career awareness and recruitment program, was initiated in 2007. The goal is to expose students to professional career role models, learn about different health careers and develop leadership skills and a sense of personal social responsibility to serve their community. After completing the 36 hour curriculum on cultural diversity and community health problems, the students volunteer in a community agency for a minimum of 50 hours of service. In addition, the students are encouraged to participate in volunteer community service projects, of their choice, that require them to learn about health issues and other community concerns then use the information to raise awareness in others. The program is offered throughout the school year. A total of 115 students were enrolled in the program for school year 2013-2014. The evaluation tools administered showed that 52.17% of students improved their knowledge about health careers, vulnerable populations, cultural diversity and personal health information laws i.e. HIPPA.

The Pathway Program

The Pathway Program is an intense two-week review of math and science proficiency required for students interested in an advanced health/STEM profession. In 2014, the program was offered from Monday, July 21, 2014 through Friday, August 1, 2014 at the UTHSC Regional Campus at Laredo and Texas A&M International University.

AHEC Student Leadership Club

(Grades 9th thru 12th)

This project addresses the needs of underrepresented, minority, high school students to improve access to higher education. Resources are made available to allow students to make informed decisions on a career path. Health care careers are promoted; however, students do not have to commit to a health career to participate. The structure of the program provides opportunities for students to use skills and knowledge in real-life situations through youth-led projects; it applies the concepts of service learning. In addition to fostering a sense of caring for others, the students contribute to community needs through service projects conducted. Students practice leadership skills, build character, and enhance their education as they become actively contributing citizens. The program is offered to high school students. In addition, students serve as AHEC ambassadors amongst their peers in each of their schools. During 2013-2014 school year, 309 students offered over 10,000 volunteer hours to the community through various AHEC activities including health fairs, farmers market, children educational activities, veteran’s projects and blanket drives.