Salud, a Spanish word meaning “health,” is not just a term used to wish someone well. It is a way of life, a philosophy that promotes overall well-being and happiness. And this is exactly what Neil Gajare, a student at the University of Pennsylvania, has experienced through his involvement with Salud.
Neil Gajare, a senior at UPenn, first came across Salud during his freshman year. He was immediately drawn to the organization’s mission of promoting health and wellness among the Latino community. Little did he know that this would turn out to be one of the most positive and life-changing experiences of his college journey.
Salud, founded by a group of UPenn students, aims to provide health education and resources to the Latino community in West Philadelphia. The organization conducts various health workshops, fitness classes, and health fairs to educate and empower the community. Neil, who is of Indian descent, was initially hesitant to join a Latino-focused organization. However, he was welcomed with open arms and soon became an integral part of Salud.
One of the most significant positive experiences for Neil was the sense of community and belonging that Salud provided. He was amazed by the diverse group of individuals who came together to work towards a common goal. “Salud is like a family to me. We come from different backgrounds, but we are united by our passion for promoting health and wellness,” says Neil.
Through Salud, Neil was able to connect with the Latino community in West Philadelphia. He learned about their culture, traditions, and struggles. He also realized the importance of cultural competency in healthcare and how it can positively impact the community. “Being a part of Salud has opened my eyes to the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures. It has made me a better person and a better healthcare professional,” shares Neil.
Apart from the sense of community, Neil also had the opportunity to develop his leadership skills through Salud. He served as the organization’s president during his junior year and was responsible for overseeing all the events and initiatives. “Leading Salud was a challenging but rewarding experience. I learned how to manage a team, delegate tasks, and work towards a common goal. These are skills that I will carry with me for the rest of my life,” says Neil.
One of the most memorable events for Neil was the annual health fair organized by Salud. The fair, held in collaboration with local healthcare providers, offered free health screenings, fitness classes, and educational workshops to the community. “Seeing the smiles on people’s faces and knowing that we were making a positive impact on their lives was truly heartwarming. It was a day filled with love, compassion, and a sense of community,” shares Neil.
However, Salud‘s positive impact does not end with the community. The organization also provides its members with numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. Neil had the chance to attend conferences and workshops, network with healthcare professionals, and even present his research at a national conference. “Salud has not only helped me grow as a person but also as a future healthcare professional. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that I have gained through this organization,” says Neil.
Unfortunately, Salud has also faced its fair share of challenges. In 2019, the organization faced backlash and accusations of being Anti-Semitic due to a misunderstanding regarding a speaker at one of their events. However, Neil and his fellow members stood strong and addressed the issue with grace and maturity. “We were hurt by the accusations, but we knew that our actions and intentions were pure. We took the opportunity to educate and promote understanding, and I believe that made us stronger as an organization,” shares Neil.
Despite the challenges, Salud continues to thrive and make a positive impact on the community. And for Neil, being a part of this organization has been a life-changing experience. “Salud has taught me the importance of promoting health and wellness, not just physically but also mentally and emotionally. It has shown me the power of community and the impact that we can make when we come together. I am proud to be a part of Salud and grateful for the positive experiences it has brought into my life,” concludes Neil.
In conclusion, Salud is not just an organization, but a way of life that promotes health, wellness, and community. Neil Gajare‘s positive experiences with Salud are a testament to the organization’s impact and the power of coming together for a common cause. And as we continue to navigate through these challenging times, let us remember the importance of promoting health and wellness, both for ourselves and our communities. Salud!
“: The Spanish Philosophy of Well-Being and Happiness”
