This summer, 100 youth from the region participated in the Healthcare Career Awareness and Readiness Camp (Camp CARE) held at the Western Kentucky University Health Sciences Complex Medical Center.
The two-session program for students aged 13 to 15 was successfully held from June 23 to 27, and the second session is in full swing from July 7 to 11.
CARE focuses on guiding youth to understand the diverse career paths in the healthcare industry through immersive, hands-on courses.
Campers rotated through interactive courses including intubation, foodborne illness investigation, first aid experience, medication compounding, dental procedures, etc., and were personally instructed by professionals such as respiratory therapists, paramedics, paramedics, pharmacists and flight nurses.
The number of campers increased significantly this year, thanks to a $56,000 grant from the Kentucky Commission on Higher Education (CPE). This funding not only increased the number of participants from 25 last year to 100, but also covered the cost of housing, meals, course materials and evening activities.
During the camp, students also enjoyed recreational activities such as Southern Lanes bowling, movie nights, and recreational activities held at the Preston Center of Western Kentucky University.
In addition to skill training, CARE Camp also focuses on career awareness and social networking. Students connect with mentors, medical experts, and like-minded peers.
Another highlight this year is the arrival of HealthForce Kentucky’s mobile learning center at the camp, which brings high-tech simulation equipment, including synthetic cadavers, interactive human models, digital dissection tables, and immersive teaching spaces, allowing students to learn in an immersive environment.
“Our mission is to help students get in touch with the many possibilities in the healthcare field and ignite their passion for a medical career during their growth stage.”
Dr. Mark Flener, an instructor at the Western Kentucky University College of Nursing and Allied Health, said, “CARE Summer Camp combines learning with practice. It is an interesting and inspiring experience that inspires campers to pursue future medical work and makes people look forward to next year’s camp.”
The summer camp is jointly organized by the Medical Center, the Western Kentucky University College of Health and Human Services, the Western Kentucky University Department of Continuing and Professional Development, the Kentucky Higher Education Commission, and HealthForce Kentucky, all of which are committed to cultivating the next generation of medical and health talents.