Community service is at the heart of the mission and vision of the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at The George Washington University (GW) School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS). Students, faculty, and staff regularly volunteer throughout DC and nearby communities. The DPT curriculum also includes a course that addresses underserved populations within the geographic area and provides opportunities to interact with individuals to optimize their health.
Commitment to Community Day
At the beginning of each academic year, GW SMHS celebrates Commitment to Community Day. DPT students, faculty and staff work aside other SMHS colleagues to give back through community service projects. Recent Commitment to Community Day efforts have benefited Kids Against Hunger DC Metro.
Community Service Challenge
Each year, the program strives to complete the "1,000 Hour Community Service Challenge" through volunteering at health fairs, the Little Workers of the Sacred Heart Pro Bono Physical Therapy Clinic local athletic and social events, food banks, the Challengers Baseball League, Special Olympics, and Whitman-Walker Health.
The Little Workers of the Sacred Heart Pro Bono Physical Therapy Clinic is a non-profit organization focused on bringing health care to underserved and underinsured populations in the DC area. Students volunteer alongside licensed physical therapists while getting hands-on clinical experience. The Physical Therapy Student Organization coordinates student volunteers and equipment, as well as fundraising to provide clinic supplies.
Foggy Bottom/West End Block Party
Each year, about 2000 people attend the annual celebration, which features a variety of local food and craft vendors, local businesses, restaurants, groups and institutions as well as musical and dance performances. Continuing its commitment to the community, the GW DPT program’s faculty and students perform falls prevention and blood pressure screenings.
Falls Prevention Day
The GW DPT program participates in the annual DC Falls Prevention Day. Faculty members supervise students assessing community members' risk for falls and provide falls prevention education.