This spring the staff, faculty, and students of Grand Rapids North, Michigan campus of Ross Medical Education Center attended their second annual autism awareness walk. Like last year, this year the walk was sponsored by Hope Network, a local employer who personally invited the Ross Grand Rapids team to join in again this year. Many students joined the campus for this walk with their children and families.
Although the walk was a short one that just took the participants across the Blue Bridge, it was amazing how many connections were made by Hope Network and the Ross team. In fact, several of the Hope Network recruiters were so impressed that they asked a few Ross students if they would like to be employed there upon graduation from their program.
Hope Network is a Michigan based organization that advocates for and supports those with physical, social, and mental obstacles. According to their website, their mission is: “In Christian service, Hope Network empowers people to overcome challenges and to achieve their highest level of independence.” In keeping with their mission, the walk’s theme was again “More Than Able” and it was boldly printed on the front of the blue walk shirt. The Ross campus was decked out in their blue shirts and even blue tulle tutus to show their support for those overcoming obstacles associated with autism.
Hope Network is working now with Amira Curic, Campus Director for the Grand Rapids North campus, to continue to connect with the students, staff, and instructors at Ross. “The organization is planning a visit to the campus soon to give a presentation on professionalism and how we can help patients with brain injuries more effectively,” shared Campus Director Amira Curic. “This is just another way of Ross connecting with community, giving back, and creating great professional relationships.”
To learn more about this meaningful organization, visit the Hope Network Facebook page or their website at hopenetwork.org.