From left: Cristin Gill, practice supervisor; Emily Roman, practice administrative associate; Stephanie Davis, practice supervisor; Kelly McKenna, MA; Martha Carmona, practice administrative associate; Laura Perrino, RN; Kara Andaloro, RN; and Daniela Basler, MA II.Community outreach was very active at Northeast Medical Group throughout the fourth quarter of 2023. From an annual initiative geared to show support of Pride Month and LGBTQIA+ awareness, to monthly dinner services designed to help families who are supporting their sick children, the spirit of giving back to the community was in abundance.
From June 1 to June 30, the NEMG Diversity Equity Inclusion and Belonging Council sponsored a show of support for Pride Month and LGBTQIA+ awareness with its annual virtual walk. Staff members from numerous offices tracked their steps, both during and after work hours, and posed for pictures carrying the rainbow flag provided to their respective practices. This year’s participation generated an impressive total of 15,405,527 steps walked. Individual recognition goes to practice supervisors Jackie Schubert and Melissa Kalfus for most steps walked. Additional thanks go to Tameeka Parks, Cynthia Georgette, Nadine Mitchell, and Michelle Flaherty for participation from their practices. “I believe everyone has the right to be proud of who they are,” said Nadine Mitchell, practice supervisor. “We all deserve to experience love fully, equally, without shame, and without compromise.” “This year’s Pride Walk was met with great participation,” said Christine Hines, executive director, operations. “Our hope is to continually educate everyone about the LGBTQIA+ community and promote inclusion. Congratulations to the winners and thank you to everyone who participated.”
NEMG Community Outreach Committee (COC) members from the Greenwich region continued their monthly volunteer meal program at the Ronald McDonald House of the Greater Hudson Valley in Valhalla, NY. The program runs every fourth Thursday and provides a much-needed service to families who are supporting their sick children and don’t often have the time, financial means, or energy to prepare a healthy, home-cooked meal.
On July 15, the L+M Summer Stride 5K and 10K, a Hartford Marathon event sponsored by L+M Hospital, was held at 445 Ocean Ave. in New London. A community tradition, the road race promotes fitness and a healthy lifestyle, and is open to all ages and abilities. The 5K, designed for competitive and casual runners, as well as walkers and families with strollers, is a 3.1-mile race along a scenic course. The 10K is a double loop with long straightaways, offering a fast course with ocean views along Pequot Ave. This was a very special event for the team from Northeast Medical Group Pediatrics – Gales Ferry, who wore matching t-shirts in support of a co-worker. “It was exciting to be able to participate as an NEMG employee in support of an organization that we are proud to be a part of,” said Cristin Gill, practice supervisor. “The event is welcoming to everyone and is just a wonderful day.”
On Aug. 12, COC members from the Bridgeport region spent time with residents of Middlebrook Farms, an assisted living facility in Trumbull. Volunteers talked and played Bingo and card games with residents who typically do not get many visitors. Andrea Waller, preventive health coordinator, entertained residents by playing the piano. The facility is always looking for volunteers to meet with the residents and enhance their social time. For more information, reach out to Andrea Waller. “Having a social community is critical for us to thrive, especially as we age,” said Waller. “We do not stop acquiring connections and it is important that everyone benefits from these, especially to residents that do not always have loved ones checking on them.”
Throughout the month of September, NEMG Obstetrics and Gynecology – New London will have a community baby closet open to both patients and employees. Items needed include new and gently used maternity and toddler clothing, furniture, toys, and anything baby related. For more information, contact Cristin Gill.
The Community Outreach Committee (COC) is instrumental in carrying out NEMG’s mission to help the communities we serve. For information or to join, contact Robert Mitchell, 203-384-5109. Watch for more information on committee initiatives.
