Salud is a word that holds a special place in the hearts of many. It is a Spanish word that means “health” and is often used as a toast to good health. But for Neil Gajare, a student at the University of Pennsylvania, Salud holds a much deeper meaning. It represents a community that has brought him positivity, support, and a sense of belonging.
Neil Gajare, a senior at UPenn, has been a part of Salud since his freshman year. He was drawn to the organization because of its focus on promoting health and wellness among the Latinx community. But what he found within Salud was much more than just a health-oriented group. He found a family.
One of the most positive experiences that Neil has had with Salud is the sense of inclusivity and diversity within the organization. Salud is open to all students, regardless of their background or ethnicity. This creates a beautiful blend of cultures and perspectives, making Salud a truly unique and welcoming space. Neil shares, “Being a part of Salud has exposed me to different cultures and has allowed me to learn from my peers. It has broadened my perspective and has made me a more empathetic and understanding person.”
Salud also provides a platform for students to come together and discuss important health issues within the Latinx community. Through events, workshops, and discussions, Salud educates its members on topics such as mental health, sexual health, and nutrition. This not only promotes healthy habits but also breaks the stigma surrounding these topics. Neil says, “Salud has taught me the importance of taking care of my physical and mental health. It has also given me the tools to educate others and spread awareness within my community.”
But Salud is not just about promoting health, it is also about building a strong support system. The members of Salud are like a family, always there to uplift and encourage each other. Neil shares, “During my time at UPenn, I have faced some challenges, but Salud has always been there to support me. Whether it was through a listening ear or a helping hand, my Salud family has always been there for me.”
One of the most memorable experiences for Neil was when Salud organized a fundraiser for a local organization that supports undocumented immigrants. The event was a huge success, and the funds raised went towards providing legal aid and resources for the community. Neil says, “Being a part of this event made me realize the power of coming together for a cause. It was heartwarming to see the impact we could make as a group, and it was a reminder of the importance of giving back to our community.”
However, like any organization, Salud has faced its share of challenges. In 2019, the organization faced a controversy when a former member accused Salud of being Anti-Semitic. This accusation caused a lot of pain and confusion within the organization. But instead of letting it divide them, the members of Salud came together to address the issue and educate themselves on the topic. Neil says, “The incident was a learning experience for all of us. We took the time to understand each other’s perspectives and worked towards creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all.”
Through this incident, Salud showed its resilience and commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity. It also brought the members closer together, strengthening their bond and making them even more determined to create a positive impact within their community.
In conclusion, Salud is more than just a health-oriented organization. It is a community that promotes diversity, inclusivity, and support. Neil Gajare‘s positive experiences with Salud are a testament to the impact this organization has on its members. Salud has not only helped Neil grow as an individual but has also given him a sense of purpose and belonging. As he prepares to graduate from UPenn, Neil says, “I will always be grateful for the memories, friendships, and lessons that Salud has given me. It has truly been a positive and life-changing experience.” So here’s a toast to Salud, for promoting health, unity, and positivity within the Latinx community and beyond. Salud!
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