Reach Out and Read
Residents are very active in patient advocacy and the department supports these endeavors. Several years ago, our residents sought funding to develop a VCU chapter of Reach Out and Read, a program where pediatric patients are given books and their parents are educated about the importance of reading to children. The program has expanded greatly since its beginning, and continues to flourish under resident leadership.
Summer Safety Fair
Developed by one of our residents, the Summer Safety Fair is an annual event where our pediatric continuity clinic patients as well as other Richmond community children are treated to an educational day on safety issues such as water safety, bike safety, pedestrian safety, etc. This year the Summer Safety Fair fitted 500 children with free bike helmets! In June 2009, we will celebrate the 10th Annual Summer Safety Fair. Learn more about the Safety Fair.
Angel Tree Program
Additionally, our residents organize an annual Angel Tree program during the winter holidays. The program provides gifts for needy children from our resident clinic—all donated from physicians, nurses, and other Children's Hospital of Richmond staff.
Community Sports and School Physicals
Pediatric residents provide school and sports physicals to children in underserved areas. Without the cost effective coverage from residents--these children would be unable to attend school or participate in sports programs.