The mobile clinics provide school-required immunizations, including Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and MMR (measles, mumps and rubella), at no cost. The program is aimed at helping families in underserved communities, where families can face barriers to preventive care.

“Preparing for a successful school year starts with protecting children’s health,” said Arthur Cho, MD, medical director of COACH for Kids. “Our Back-to-School immunization campaign brings recommended vaccines directly into the communities we serve, making it easier for families to get their children ready for the classroom.”

COACH for Kids delivers free medical services to children from birth through age 18 in underserved communities throughout Los Angeles.

COACH for Kids Mobile Medical Unit August Calendar

All clinics run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and are closed from noon to 1 p.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 11
Charles Drew Middle School
8511 Compton Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90001

Wednesday, Aug. 12
Edison Middle School
6500 Hooper Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90001

Thursday, Aug. 13
Audubon Middle School
4120 11th Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90008

Monday, Aug. 17
Gompers Middle School
234 E. 112th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90061

Tuesday, Aug. 18
Miramonte Elementary School
1400 E. 68th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90001

Wednesday, Aug. 19
Parmelee Avenue Elementary School
1338 E. 76th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90001

Thursday, Aug. 20
Alliance Virgil Roberts Leadership Academy & Alliance Renee and Meyer Luskin Academy High School
2941 W. 70th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90043

Monday, Aug. 24
74^th Street Elementary School
2112 W. 74th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90047

Tuesday, Aug. 25
93rd Street Elementary School
330 E. 93rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90003

Wednesday, Aug. 26
Raymond Avenue Elementary School
7511 Raymond Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90044

Thursday, Aug. 27
99th Street Elementary School
9900 Wadsworth Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90002

Monday, Aug. 31
Nevin Avenue Elementary School
1569 E. 32nd St.
Los Angeles, 90011

MEDIA CONTACT

Media interested in attending a COACH for Kids clinic must coordinate in advance with Cedars-Sinai External Communications. Please contact: Melissa Vizcarra | melissa.vizcarra@cshs.org | 719-502-5001

Cedars-Sinai will continue as the organization's Official Healthcare Partner, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the health, performance and recovery of beach volleyball athletes throughout California.

Founded in 1962, the nonprofit hosts nearly 1,000 tournaments annually across more than 20 California locations, serving approximately 8,000 active members spanning youth, amateur and elite competition.

“Our continued partnership with the California Beach Volleyball Association reflects Cedars-Sinai’s commitment to helping athletes stay healthy,” said Mark Vrahas, MD, chair of Cedars-Sinai Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. “Together, we’re giving players of every age and skill level access to expert care that helps prevent injuries, supports recovery and keeps them enjoying the sport they love.”

Through the collaboration, Cedars-Sinai Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine will provide athletes with access to orthopedic specialists, sports medicine physicians and injury prevention resources designed to help players perform safely and recover effectively.

Beach volleyball places unique demands on the body, requiring explosive movement, agility and endurance. Cedars-Sinai sports medicine physicians regularly treat shoulder, knee, ankle and hand injuries, while emphasizing evidence-based injury prevention strategies that help keep competitors in the game.

“Whether treating professional athletes or weekend competitors, our goal is always the same: helping patients return safely to the activities they love,” said Joshua Scott, MD, orthopedic specialist at Cedars-Sinai Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. “We're excited to continue working with the association to provide guidance on injury prevention, performance optimization and comprehensive musculoskeletal care throughout the season.”

A nonprofit organization, the California Beach Volleyball Association is dedicated to nurturing, promoting and growing the sport through organized tournaments and opportunities for players of all ages and abilities to compete. The organization has helped grow the sport and foster healthy competition for generations of athletes.

“CBVA has been putting on tournaments on California sand for more than 60 years, and keeping our players healthy has always been part of our job,” said Kathy Hubbell, the group’s executive director. “Partnering with Cedars-Sinai gives our athletes—from the kids just learning to bump and serve to the dedicated weekend players who never miss a tournament—access to real experts when they need them. That kind of support is hard to find for a sport like ours, and it makes a difference.”

Read more from Cedars-Sinai Stories and Insights: Proper Precautions Can Net Safety Benefits for Beach Volleyball Players

The “Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion” designation from the 2026 Disability Index recognizes organizations for workplace policies and practices that support disability inclusion, while the “Healthcare Equality Index” label from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation recognizes healthcare organizations that demonstrate a commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBTQIA+ patients, visitors and employees.

“These recognitions reflect our commitment to ensuring our people and our communities experience Cedars-Sinai in a way that aligns with our values and our mission,” said Nicole Mitchell, chief diversity, inclusion and wellbeing officer at Cedars-Sinai. “We are proud to once again be recognized but also recognize that this work is never finished.”

The Cedars-Sinai Newsroom spoke with Mitchell about what these recognitions mean and how inclusion continues to shape the organization's culture, workplace and patient care.

What do these recognitions represent for Cedars-Sinai?

These recognitions are meaningful because they reflect years of intentional work and accountability. They are not about receiving an award or checking a box. Instead, they are an external reflection of our commitment to creating an environment where people feel seen, supported and able to thrive.

More importantly, they reinforce our commitment to ensuring our people and our communities experience Cedars-Sinai in a way that aligns with our values and our mission to elevate the health status of the communities we serve. When people experience belonging, trust and inclusion, it strengthens our culture and helps us deliver the exceptional care that is at the heart of our mission.

How do inclusion and accessibility affect Cedars-Sinai's commitment to providing the highest level of patient care?

At Cedars-Sinai, inclusion is not separate from our mission. It is connected to how we care for patients, support our workforce and engage with our communities.

This work is reflected in everything from leadership development and employee education to accessibility initiatives and the everyday interactions people have across our organization. It also includes programs and resources that help our employees build community and help our caregivers provide more inclusive, affirming care. Ultimately, it's about creating environments where people can fully participate and where their lived experiences are valued and respected.

While these recognitions acknowledge important progress, what matters most is the experience people have every day when they walk through our doors—whether as patients, family members, employees, physicians, learners or community members.

What are some examples of how these values are reflected in the experiences of our patients, workforce and community?

For patients and families, inclusive care helps build trust, strengthen communication and create meaningful partnerships in healthcare decisions. When people feel heard, respected and understood, they are more empowered to participate in their care. That commitment is reflected in ongoing efforts to create welcoming, affirming care experiences, provide education that equips caregivers to meet the diverse needs of patients, and foster an environment where every individual feels valued and respected.

For our workforce, belonging means creating a culture where employees can contribute fully, share different perspectives and feel supported in doing their best work. Employee resource groups—including Supporting Purposeful Accessibility, Community and Equity [SPACE] and Pride, Respect, Inclusivity, Solidarity and Meaningful Support [PRISMS]—play an important role in building community, elevating lived experiences and helping us better understand the needs of employees with apparent and non-apparent disabilities, LGBTQIA+ employees, and allies.

We know this work is a team effort. Inclusion cannot live within one office or one department. It must be reflected in our systems, our decisions and our daily practices across the organization.

How does Cedars-Sinai ensure that inclusion remains part of our culture and daily operations?

One of the strengths of our Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Wellbeing is that we approach this work every day through both a strategic and human lens.

The frameworks provided through the Disability Index and Healthcare Equality Index help us measure progress and identify opportunities to continue growing. But lasting change happens when inclusion becomes part of how we lead, collaborate, make decisions and care for one another every day.

We remain focused on strengthening education, creating opportunities for connection and belonging, increasing accessibility, and embedding inclusive practices into how we show up for our patients and one another. Our goal is not simply to achieve or maintain recognition. It is to continue building an environment where people feel they belong because inclusion is part of who we are as an organization.

Read more from Cedars-Sinai Stories and Insights: Residency Programs Move Toward Greater Diversity

During the daylong event, students extracted DNA from strawberries, saw CPR demonstrations and ambulance simulations, and talked about science and medicine with physicians, pharmacists, nurses, professors and researchers at Cedars-Sinai Health Sciences University.

“Early exposure to STEAM is critical, especially for students who may not always see themselves represented in science or healthcare careers,” said Christina Harris, MD, vice president and chief health equity officer at Cedars-Sinai. “By partnering with the Rams and bringing Cedars-Sinai Health Sciences University into this experience, we are helping students see that careers in medicine, research and innovation are exciting—and attainable.”

Participating students also explored behind-the-scenes areas of SoFi Stadium, connecting STEAM concepts to the innovation and engineering behind one of the world’s most advanced sports and entertainment venues.

“I liked that we actually got to try things ourselves,” said Elias Rivera, a fourth grader from Normont Elementary School in Harbor City who wants to one day become a doctor. “Math is my favorite subject, and my favorite part today was throwing the football into a small hole on the field.”

Through its involvement, Cedars-Sinai Health Sciences University helped students see themselves reflected in the future of healthcare and science, reinforcing its commitment to education, research and advancing health equity.

“What’s powerful about a day like this is that students can see how many different career opportunities exist in healthcare,” said Michael Farkouh, MD, vice dean for Research and Clinical Trials at Cedars-Sinai Health Sciences University. “You don’t have to leave Los Angeles to receive world-class training and education. Right here at Cedars-Sinai and our Health Sciences University, there are pathways in research, artificial intelligence, pharmacy technician, respiratory therapy and so much more.”

The Health Sciences University was established in 2024 to prepare generations of academic scientists, physician leaders and allied health professionals for futures in healthcare and biomedical science.

“Our goal is to spark a passion that goes beyond a job—and to show students they can build meaningful careers while staying rooted in their communities,” Farkouh said.

S.T.E.A.M. Field Day is part of a broader educational initiative to introduce Los Angeles youth to career pathways in sports, entertainment and healthcare. Cedars-Sinai helps shape the program’s educational content, spotlighting professionals whose work reflects each STEAM discipline, including:

• Science – Casey Batten, MD
  Co-director of Nonoperative Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine at Cedars-Sinai, head team physician for the Los Angeles Rams and chief medical officer for the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Batten represents how scientific research and evidence-based medicine support both elite athletes and everyday patients.
• Technology – Tiffani Bright, PhD
  An assistant professor of Computational Biomedicine and co-director of Cedars-Sinai’s Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and Education, Bright leads efforts to develop AI tools to improve clinical decision-making and advance health equity.
• Engineering – Hector Melara
  An engineer and architect at Cedars-Sinai, Melara helps design and build healthcare spaces that support patients, families and caregivers. His work blends engineering, technology and math to create safe, functional environments where care happens.
• Art – John Lange
  Curator of Cedars-Sinai’s art collection and manager of the Cedars-Sinai Arts Program, Lange leads initiatives that integrate art into healthcare settings to support healing and wellbeing.
• Math – Joycelyn Frederick, BSHCM, CPhT-Adv 
  Program director for the Pharmacy Technician Program at Cedars-Sinai Health Sciences University, Frederick prepares the next generation of pharmacy technicians for careers that rely on math, science and technology to ensure medication safety and accuracy for patients.

Cedars-Sinai Health Sciences University is advancing groundbreaking research and educating future leaders in medicine, biomedical sciences and allied health sciences. Learn more about the university.

Supporting holiday traditions is a vital part of patient care, said Rabbi Jason Weiner, PhD, senior rabbi and director of the Spiritual Care Department at Cedars-Sinai.

“Hospitalized patients often feel especially lonely this time of year,” said Weiner, a board-certified chaplain. “They may feel they’re missing out on time with loved ones and special traditions, or that they’re an extra burden on family. The holidays can be a heightened reminder of how upsetting it is to be in the hospital, so we try to help patients celebrate in ways that are meaningful to them.”

Given Cedars-Sinai’s diverse patient population, the medical center underscores inclusivity year-round through general interfaith support. And during the December holiday season, thoughtful touches help spread holiday happiness.

On the first night of Hanukkah, for example, patients can enjoy a traditional holiday meal featuring minestrone soup, beef brisket and potato latkes, jelly donuts, and a challah roll. Patients also can request an electric menorah.

Those celebrating Christmas receive an afternoon snack of (Santa-approved) milk and cookies, followed by a Christmas Day meal that includes beef brisket, roasted red potatoes and a Linzer cookie. Many patients also put up small trees and decorate their rooms with stockings and garlands.

At Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children’s, pediatric patients receive a special visit from Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, courtesy of David Marshall, JD, DNP, RN, senior vice president and chief nursing executive at Cedars-Sinai, who also happens to be Santa’s best friend.

Patients with dietary restrictions receive holiday-appropriate healthy alternatives so they can participate in the spirit of the season.

Kwanzaa and other cultural commemorations also are supported upon patient request.

These simple gestures help patients feel more connected, Weiner said, adding that technology also plays an important role.

“The COVID-19 pandemic led to more of a familiarity with using technology to virtually connect,” Weiner said. “More people are using Facetime or Zoom to visit with their loved ones over the holidays, and I often see patients attending virtual religious services from their rooms.”

This year, patients can attend special holiday programming led by Cedars-Sinai or watch the broadcasts on their in-room televisions. On Tuesday, Dec. 16, Weiner will lead a Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony open to staff, visitors and patients. The Spiritual Care Department will host a Christmas Extravaganza on Thursday, Dec. 18, and its chaplains will lead Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services.

“We like to get in the holiday spirit to make what is a tough time for patients and families better,” Weiner said. “We want people to feel as good as they can at this time of year, and to feel a part of something special.”

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Holidays in the Hospital—Celebrating When a Loved One Is Ill

Healthcare in Action, a member organization of the SCAN Group, delivers medical, behavioral and social services to people in California who are experiencing homelessness through a street-based model of care. Healthcare in Action care professionals follow individual patients after they leave the hospital, helping ensure continued care and support toward long-term health and stability.

The partnership aligns with Cedars-Sinai’s mission to improve community health and address the root causes of homelessness.

“Cedars-Sinai has long been committed to addressing health disparities that affect marginalized people across Los Angeles,” said Jonathan Schreiber, vice president of Community Engagement at Cedars-Sinai. “Healthcare in Action is a trusted partner in delivering high-quality care to the unhoused, and their work reflects our belief that healthcare should go beyond the walls of our hospital, so that after someone leaves, care remains accessible wherever they are.”

Delivering care to unhoused patients is demanding work, but one aspect has become more efficient thanks to streamlined digital access: As part of the collaboration, Healthcare in Action’s medical providers have access to CS-Link, Cedars-Sinai’s secure electronic medical records system powered by Epic software.

Those experiencing homelessness often lack relationships with healthcare providers, which can lead to challenges accessing care, as well as fragmented care. Access to a patient’s medical records helps ensure Healthcare in Action providers have the information they need to continue to follow up with unhoused patients treated at Cedars-Sinai. 

“Providing Healthcare in Action’s care team with access to CS-Link helps ensure continuity of care for unhoused patients,” said Craig Kwiatkowski, PharmD, senior vice president and chief information officer at Cedars-Sinai. “When a street team provider can view care notes, medication lists and follow-up needs, it helps patients avoid gaps in care and supports smoother, more coordinated services.”

Although homelessness in L.A. County has declined for the second consecutive year, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority reported in its 2025 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count that more than 72,000 people remain unhoused.

“Healthcare in Action’s work is essential in ensuring our most vulnerable patients aren’t left behind once they leave the hospital,” said Katie Hren, LCSW, MPH, director of the Community Connect Program at Cedars-Sinai. “Our community health workers and navigators address patients’ social needs during their hospital stay and transition home, while Healthcare in Action provides continued care in the community—delivering ongoing care to patients wherever they are. They also help them find stable housing, which is essential for recovery because it allows patients to heal in a safe environment, free of hunger and exposure.”

Sonali Saluja, MD, MPH, medical director, Quality and Population Health at Healthcare in Action, said of the collaboration: “Healthcare in Action is honored to partner with Cedars-Sinai to create a safe, consistent pathway for unhoused patients transitioning from the ER in Los Angeles. Leveraging Epic’s powerful technology, this collaboration ensures we can provide comprehensive and continuous care with the goal of preventing instability and advancing a more humane, equitable model of health for our most vulnerable community members.”

Cedars-Sinai’s work with Healthcare in Action is multifaceted: In addition to its partnership, the medical center also provides grant funding to help Healthcare in Action expand its services and coverage area. Recent funding helped the organization purchase additional vans for its street medicine team.

Bolstered by a robust community benefit strategy, Cedars-Sinai has donated $134 million in grants over the past five years to address health challenges throughout Los Angeles. Approximately 40% of these grants have addressed homelessness and housing insecurity—key drivers of poor health.

“Healthcare in Action is a wonderful partner for Cedars-Sinai, our patients and the entire community,” Schreiber said. “Homelessness is a persistent health challenge for our city. Together, we’re helping people improve their health, recovery and long-term stability.”

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Supporting Homeless Patients in the Emergency Room

That’s where Cedars-Sinai’s community health workers (CHWs) step in.  

“Our team meets patients where they are—literally and figuratively—and helps them navigate care as whole people, not just patients,” said Katie Hren, LCSW, MPH, director of the Community Connect Program at Cedars-Sinai. “Many of the patients we work with need more than medicine. They also may need assistance finding safe housing, accessing healthy food, arranging transportation to appointments or applying for benefits that support their daily lives.”

According to the National Association of Community Health Workers, interventions led by a community health specialist have been shown to reduce emergency department visits by up to 38% and hospitalizations by 30%—underscoring their positive impact on patient outcomes and healthcare costs.

The Cedars-Sinai Newsroom spoke with Hren to learn how CHWs support patients beyond the hospital and why their role is becoming more essential than ever.

What is a community health worker?

A community health worker is a frontline public health professional who helps patients navigate healthcare and community resources. They often come from the same neighborhoods they serve, giving them insight into the cultural, social and practical challenges patients face.

Unlike most hospital professionals, CHWs continue working with patients after discharge. They connect patients to services such as meal delivery, transportation or caregivers, and follow up to ensure referrals and treatment plans are completed.

Who benefits most from CHWs?

CHWs focus on patients at higher risk of falling through the cracks. That might include someone discharged without stable housing, an older adult who no longer drives, or a family juggling chronic illness, child care and work while also needing access to food or benefits. These are patients who need more than clinical care, and CHWs help them connect to the right resources.

How do CHWs differ from other providers?

CHWs complement the work of nurses, social workers and case managers. While those providers focus on medical care, psychosocial support or discharge planning, CHWs specialize in navigating social barriers—such as housing, food and transportation—that affect health outcomes.

What does a typical day look like?

No two days are the same for a community health worker. They might start by rounding with clinical teams, meeting patients at the bedside before discharge, or following up by phone to make sure resources are in place.

Much of their work happens in the community—meeting patients at home, attending appointments with them or even sitting together in a coffee shop to complete applications for public benefits. CHWs also collaborate with external partners, such as Healthcare in Action, which provides street medicine to people experiencing homelessness. They may refer patients to these programs while continuing to help with longer-term needs like housing or benefits.

How do patients connect with CHWs?

At Cedars-Sinai, patients are referred by their care team—usually a physician, nurse or social worker. The community health specialist then proactively reaches out to build trust and begin support.

What results have you seen?

Cedars-Sinai’s program has shown measurable results. Patients who work with CHWs are more likely to attend follow-up and primary care visits, less likely to use the emergency department unnecessarily, and they report higher satisfaction with their overall care.

Providers also benefit, noting that CHWs allow them to focus on more complex medical issues. Patients frequently share that they feel less alone and more confident navigating the healthcare system thanks to the support and education CHWs provide.

To expand this impact, Cedars-Sinai launched CS Community Resource, an online portal that connects patients and community members with free or low-cost health and social service programs.

What does the future look like for CHWs?

The role of CHWs is more essential than ever. I see their integration into healthcare continuing to expand, not just at Cedars-Sinai but across the country. As healthcare shifts toward whole-person care, CHWs bring skills and connections that can’t be replicated by other providers.

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Inspiring Community Health By Meeting Patients’ Needs

From vaccines like DTaP and MMR to full physical exams, COACH for Kids brings Cedars-Sinai care to local schools and community centers.

“These vaccines protect against childhood preventable illnesses—measles, chickenpox, pneumonia, meningitis,” said Arthur Cho, MD, medical director of COACH for Kids and director of the Pediatric Hospitalist Program at Guerin Children's. “In the past, we saw high rates of these infections. Today, because of vaccines, we rarely see them. When children aren’t vaccinated, they’re at greater risk of getting sick, ending up in the hospital, or even worse.”

The Cedars-Sinai Newsroom spoke with Cho and COACH for Kids nurse practitioner Anne Traynor, RN, about why vaccinations are critical, how the mobile unit is improving families’ health and access to care, and what families need to bring to the clinic to get their children vaccinated.

What vaccines are required for school entry?

Traynor: Kids entering transitional kindergarten need boosters for measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough) and polio. This includes the DTaP vaccine—given to younger children—which protects against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. Older children, especially 11-year-olds and teens, receive the Tdap booster, which offers continued protection against the same three illnesses but in a smaller dose appropriate for adolescents and adults. It’s not just one age group; we’re vaccinating children from birth through age 18.

What’s your message for parents who are hesitant about vaccines?

Cho: I understand the concerns. But we’ve studied these vaccines for decades. Side effects are generally mild—fever or some swelling—but the alternative is far worse. These diseases still exist and can be deadly. Getting vaccinated protects your child and others in the community.

The consequences can be severe. Take measles as an example. We used to have 500,000 cases and hundreds of deaths annually in the U.S. before the vaccine. Though measles was declared eradicated here in 2000, recent vaccine hesitancy has led to outbreaks again. Measles can cause serious complications like meningitis, encephalitis and even death.

What challenges do families face when their children need vaccination?

Traynor: Access is the biggest issue. Even with Medi-Cal, parents may struggle to get an appointment, lack transportation, or be unable to take time off work. That’s where COACH comes in—we meet them where they are. We come to you, and we go to schools and WIC centers. (Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is a special supplemental nutrition program.)

Cho: We serve dozens of schools and community sites, especially in South L.A., bringing primary care and vaccines into neighborhoods. It’s our mission to make healthcare accessible. Many families are working hard and can’t make it to a traditional clinic—we bring the clinic to them.

We’re here to serve, without judgment. We want to make sure children are safe and healthy enough to return to school.

How long will COACH offer back-to-school vaccinations?

Traynor: We’re out in the community throughout August and beyond. We provide everything a regular clinic does, but we’re in their neighborhood. There’s no copay, and we help families connect to a regular clinic for long-term care.

We ask that parents bring their child’s immunization record if they have it. If not, you can often find it in the California Immunization Registry or access it through their school or prior clinic.

COACH for Kids Mobile Medical Clinic—August 2025 Schedule

All clinics open from 9 a.m.–3 p.m., unless noted. Closed daily from 12–1 p.m.

• Thursday, Aug. 14—Audubon Middle School, 4120 11th Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90008
• Monday, Aug. 18—Alliance Virgil Roberts Leadership Academy & Luskin Academy HS, 2941 W. 70th St., Los Angeles, CA 90043
• Tuesday, Aug. 19—Normandie Avenue Elementary School, 4505 S. Raymond Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90037
• Wednesday, Aug. 20—6th Avenue Elementary School, 3109 6th Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90018
• Thursday, Aug. 21 (9 a.m.–4 p.m.)—Northgate Gonzalez Market, 944 E. Slauson Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90011
• Monday, Aug. 25—WIC Manchester, 250 E. Manchester Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90003
• Tuesday, Aug. 26—WIC Florence, 501 E. Florence Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90003
• Wednesday, Aug. 27—Raymond Avenue Elementary, 7511 Raymond Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90044
• Thursday, Aug. 28—Edison Middle School, 6500 Hooper Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90001

For more information about COACH for Kids or to find the nearest clinic location, visit Cedars-Sinai.org or call the COACH for Kids hotline at 888-926-2249.

Read more in the Cedars-Sinai Magazine: Underserved Communities Have a COACH in Their Corner

Since 2020, the medical center has allocated $6.8 million to 20 nonprofits working to improve prenatal and postpartum outcomes for Black families. The bulk of the funding was issued under Cedars-Sinai’s Black Birth Equity Initiative, established in 2023.

In 2025, the medical center awarded its second round of funding under the initiative. Thirteen nonprofits received the most recent grants, totaling $2 million.

The  initiative has supported the following grantees:

• Black Women for Wellness
• Breastfeed LA
• California Black Women’s Health Project
• California Coalition for Black Birth Justice
• Charles Drew University of Medicine & Science Black Maternal Health Center of Excellence
• Didi Hirsch
• Eisner Health
• Frontline Doulas
• LA Partnership for Early Childhood Investment (LA County Doula Hub)
• March of Dimes
• Mighty Little Giants
• MLK Community Healthcare
• Maternal Mental Health NOW
• Narrative Nation Inc. (Irth App)
• Planned Parenthood Los Angeles
• Saban Community Clinic
• St. John’s Community Health
• To Help Everyone Health and Wellness Centers (T.H.E. Clinic)
• Venice Family Clinic
• Watts Healthcare Corporation

The funding has resulted in an increase in first trimester prenatal visit rates, more widespread utilization of doula and midwife services, expanded birth worker professional development, and broader health education and public awareness campaigns. These efforts also clear the way for new opportunities for those nonprofits, including access to public funding sources and fellowship programs.

Black women in the U.S. are three times more likely to die or become seriously ill from pregnancy-related complications, compared to white women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Black Birth Equity Initiative aligns with Cedars-Sinai’s mission to care for patients across the region. Through its vital work, the medical center aims to help lower mortality rates linked to childbirth and provide mandatory anti-discrimination education to medical staff.

“At Cedars-Sinai, we’re committed to providing excellent, equitable care to every patient who walks through our doors,” said Christina Harris, MD, vice president and chief health equity officer for Cedars-Sinai. “But advancing birth equity also means doing our part in the community—working to remove barriers and support solutions. Through our birth equity grantmaking, we aim to uplift efforts that build trust, improve outcomes and ensure every birthing person is heard and respected.”

Cedars-Sinai is among the largest private funders of Black Birth Equity programs in L.A. County, with the initiative strengthening partnerships with local nonprofits that assist expectant mothers and their families, from all socioeconomic backgrounds.

In May 2025, the medical center hosted its first Black Birth Equity Grantee Convening in South L.A. The convening celebrated the collective impact of the shared mission and served as a forum to discuss future work in the Black birthing space.

“These outstanding nonprofits have deep ties to their communities, and their work will lead to the best outcomes for birthing families across Los Angeles,” said Tshema Nash, DrPH, MPH, who leads the initiative as program officer in the Community Benefit Giving Office. “The proof is undeniable: birthing people who turn to these nonprofits for meaningful support have positive birthing experiences, and are met with compassion and high quality care for themselves and their children.”

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Working to Improve Black Maternal Health

“As we continue to address the gaps in access and visibility across the healthcare workforce, it’s essential to create experiences where students can explore what’s possible,” said Nicole Mitchell, Cedars-Sinai's chief  diversity and inclusion officer. “When young people are able to engage directly—see it, feel it, connect with professionals who share their lived experiences—it shapes what they believe is attainable. For me, it’s all about opening doors early and planting the seed of possibility for the next generation of healthcare heroes.”

The summit featured interactive stations, offering students a chance to experience real-world medical scenarios. Throughout the day, participants explored various aspects of clinical care and medical research, including hands-on demonstrations in anesthesiology, artificial intelligence (AI), and a simulated ambulance experience called a Simbulance.

Additional stations showcased CPR skills, gastroenterology, imaging, OB-GYN, respiratory therapy, germ identification using black light technology, and some of the on-site mentors and participants who shared career insights.

A Community Effort to Strengthen Representation in Medicine

“Cedars-Sinai is one of the largest employers in Los Angeles County,” said Peter L. Slavin, MD, president and CEO of Cedars-Sinai. “That comes with a responsibility not only to provide exceptional healthcare, but also to support the overall wellbeing of our community. Education plays a critical role in that. Introducing talented young people to careers in medicine and healthcare aligns perfectly with our mission and is something we’re proud to support.”

The youth summits are held in major U.S. cities in partnership with medical schools and health organizations. The Los Angeles event included representatives from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, UNITE-LA, Cedars-Sinai Health Sciences University and Cedars-Sinai Chuck Lorre Allied Health School.

For many students, the event was an eye-opening experience that reinforced their aspirations in healthcare.

“I feel like the medical field is really underrepresented in my community,” said Brandon Parrott, a University of La Verne student interested in anesthesiology or dentistry. “When I go to the hospital, I don’t see many Black doctors or nurses. I think it’s important that we start filling those roles—to help future patients feel seen, understood and comfortable.”

The Black Men in White Coats Youth Summit is part of a larger movement to reverse the decline in Black men applying to medical school and to build more inclusive, accessible pathways into healthcare careers.

“I always say, my white coat just happens to represent medicine, but your white coat might look different,” said Dale Okorodudu, MD, founder of Black Men in White Coats. “Our mission is to ignite a sense of purpose in young people—to let them know they’re built for greatness and don’t need anyone’s permission to achieve it.”

Read more in Cedars-Sinai’s Discoveries Magazine: A Call for Change | Equity and Patient-Centered Care

The medical center has issued more than $250,000 in emergency grants to nonprofit organizations assisting residents, workers and business owners affected by the disaster, as well as supporting first responders on the front lines.

Nine organizations so far have received grants, with amounts ranging from $15,000 to $50,000, to help address the community’s relief and recovery efforts.

“Whether it’s direct aid or volunteer efforts, Cedars-Sinai will continue to leverage all of its resources to help rebuild and strengthen our community,” said Erin Jackson-Ward, DrPH, executive director of Grantmaking and Social Impact at Cedars-Sinai. “So many of our community members are facing tremendous loss and uncertainty, and we feel a deep responsibility to support our beloved city during this challenging time." 

Among the causes receiving grants are the Los Angeles Fire Department Wildfire Emergency Fund, United Way of Greater Los Angeles Wildfire Response Fund, the California Community Foundation Wildfire Recovery Fund, and the Pasadena Community Foundation’s Eaton Canyon Fire Relief and Recovery Fund.

The Jewish Federation Los Angeles, Food Access Los Angeles, Inclusive Action for the City, the Institute of Popular Education of Southern California Essential Workers Fund and the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles Community Response Fund also received grants to help pay for immediate response needs. Funding to the YMCA, for example, will help provide free daycare for children of first responders, essential workers and displaced or evacuated families. Other grants are focused on providing mental health services to those impacted as well as direct assistance to low-income workers and those displaced by the fires.

Cedars-Sinai also is making in-kind donations, including its distribution of more than 13,000 N95 masks and the issuance of personal protective equipment, such as goggles, respirators and coveralls. Additionally, Cedars-Sinai is focused on offering resources and support to its employees across the health system through the Emergency Employee Fire Relief Fund.

“We recognize that the road to recovery will be long, but Cedars-Sinai is committed to standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the people of Los Angeles,” said Arthur J. Ochoa, JD, senior vice president of Advancement and chief advancement officer for Cedars-Sinai. “As Angelenos grapple with the aftermath of these devastating wildfires, we want the message from our institution to be clear: we are in this together, and we will emerge from this crisis stronger than before.”

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Faces of Cedars-Sinai—Erin Jackson-Ward, Grantmaker and Community Builder

The party featured a dancing gingerbread couple, Santa Claus and Los Angeles Rams cheerleaders, who got the crowd dancing. The children and their siblings got their faces painted and went home with kits to make gingerbread houses.

But the best part was meeting other families, said Benjamin Castillo, whose 5-year-old daughter, Camilla, is undergoing cancer treatments.  

“It’s nice to see other people going through the same thing we are going through,” Castillo said. “We are meeting people in the same situation and it’s good to see our daughter playing with other kids.”

The community came together to support the annual party. The venue was sponsored by the Beverly Hills Police Department, whose officers visit patients at Guerin Children’s every month. Sodexo and Love Catering donated the food.

As they have done for 20 years, students at El Segundo High School donated bags full of new toys.

The party was an especially happy occasion for members of the Guerin Children’s healthcare team who usually see these children in the hospital. 

“It brings out the inner child in me,” said Leo Mascarenhas, MD, MS, division chief and director of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children’s and medical director of the Sarcoma Program at Cedars-Sinai Cancer. “When I see all these kids having so much fun, it’s one of the reasons why I do what I do, so that kids can live their lives as children.”

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Innovation and Collaboration in Pediatrics at Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children's

DISCOVER (Dynamic Internship for Students Cultivating Opportunities and Vision in Healthcare Education and Research) is a 10-week, paid summer program designed to give college students a closer look at the many facets of the healthcare industry, from patient care and supply chain to hospital administration. Launched in partnership with the Los Angeles mayor’s office and Unite L.A., DISCOVER allows students to job shadow, network, and gain practical insights into their areas of interest.

“Healthcare is a team sport,” said Daniela Villegas, NextGen Pathways program manager, “and there are so many different roles and careers to choose from. There is something for everyone.”

Students who complete DISCOVER can apply for ELEVATE (Empowering Learning and Vocational Advancement Through Excellence), a yearlong employment program that continues their journey in healthcare. While DISCOVER is focused on exploration, ELEVATE takes a more targeted approach, helping students secure full-time employment while supporting them in completing their college education.

“Both programs offer students—particularly those from community colleges and four-year universities—an entry point into the healthcare field,” Villegas said. “The goal is to provide students with real-world experience and connections that help them make informed decisions about their future careers.”

Cedars-Sinai leaders hope to attract students from Los Angeles’ array of diverse communities into both programs.

“We want our future workforce to be a true reflection of Los Angeles’ incredible diversity,” said Nicole Mitchell, chief diversity and inclusion officer at Cedars-Sinai.

According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, as of 2022, only 5.7% of active physicians in the U.S. are Black, and 6.9% are Hispanic, despite these groups representing a much larger portion of the U.S. population.

"These disparities in representation show how much work still needs to be done to increase diverse representation in healthcare.  DISCOVER and ELEVATE are great examples of what's possible when we work together to open doors and create real opportunities for the next generation of healthcare heroes."

For NextGen Pathway students like Ashley Contreras and Alejandro Sanchez, the opportunity to work at Cedars-Sinai has been eye opening. Both are first-generation college students with goals for future careers in healthcare.

Contreras, a third-year student at UCLA, is currently working in the Geri and Richard Brawerman Nursing Institute at Cedars-Sinai.

“Something that surprised me within the program was seeing the different careers there were for nurses,” Contreras said. “I thought nurses were just on the floor helping patients, but I am learning all the behind-the-scenes work that happens.”

Sanchez, who recently earned his master’s degree in biomedical sciences from California Baptist University, is an aspiring physician assistant. He says the program has given him a unique opportunity to understand the healthcare industry.

“This is my first healthcare experience, and having this under my belt, seeing how a hospital like Cedars-Sinai operates, has been invaluable,” Sanchez said. “It’s helping me build connections and see how the healthcare field works.”

Anupa Roshan, RN, a nurse educator at Cedars-Sinai and Contreras’ department supervisor, emphasizes the importance of mentorship. “I want to support students like Ashley by fostering their curiosity in healthcare and providing opportunities for them to practice safe patient care in real settings.”

Students interested in applying can fill out this form or email nextgenprograms@cshs.org for more information.

“We want to see the full circle,” Villegas said. “We want to see students starting with us not knowing what they want to do, then going on to finish school, get the licenses they need, and eventually return to Cedars-Sinai for full-time employment.”

Read more in Discoveries Magazine: Residency Programs Move Toward Greater Diversity

Cedars-Sinai is hosting free community flu shot clinics across Los Angeles County, and experts are encouraging families to get the shot and protect each other.

“Influenza can cause severe illness, leading to hospitalization or even death,” said Santhosh Nadipuram, MD, an infectious disease specialist at Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children’s. “The flu shot is the best option in the world that we have of preventing you from getting severe influenza infection, ending up in the hospital or even dying. Getting vaccinated will help keep you and your loved ones safe.”

For parents like Clint Chin, a father of two young boys, getting vaccinated is all about family.

“Being a dad, I want to protect my children and family. That’s one of the top priorities,” said Chin, who, along with his wife and two sons, both under 5, recently received his flu shot at a Cedars-Sinai clinic.

Chin’s sentiment is echoed by other parents, including Coka Yip, who attended the same flu clinic with her family.

“My mom’s over 65, my daughter is 5, and it’s her first year in kindergarten. I thought it was a good time to get everyone vaccinated,” Yip said.

The flu can be especially dangerous for certain groups, including young children, older adults, and those who are pregnant or have chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease. These groups are more vulnerable to complications from the flu, which can include hospitalization or worse. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the 2022-2023 flu season was linked to as many as 650,000 hospitalizations and 58,000 deaths in the U.S.

Influenza symptoms, including fever, chills, cough, sore throat, fatigue, and muscle aches, can be severe, and the virus spreads easily during flu season.

“If you haven’t gotten vaccinated yet, there’s still time," Nadipuram said. "Make sure everyone in your home is vaccinated, especially as we approach the holiday season when people will be gathering.”

The flu vaccines formulated for the 2024-25 flu season protect against three different flu viruses that are circulating this year. Infectious disease experts recommend that everyone 6 months old and up get vaccinated. All ages are welcome at the community flu shot clinics, and children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Scheduled Community Flu Shot Clinics:

Saturday, Oct.19
7 a.m.–noon
Children's Institute Inc. – Otis Booth Campus
2121 W. Temple St.
Los Angeles, CA 90026

Wednesday, Oct. 23
10 a.m.–noon
Watts Labor Community Action Committee 
2528 West Blvd. 
Los Angeles, CA 90016

Saturday, Nov. 2
7 a.m.–noon
Michelle and Barack Obama Recreation Center
5001 Obama Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90016

Sunday, Nov. 10
9–11 a.m.
Young Israel of Century City
9317 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90035

Tuesday, Nov. 12
Noon–2 p.m.
Fairfax Senior Citizens Center 
7929 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90046

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Flu and RSV – How to Protect Yourself Now

Cedars-Sinai will be a critical resource and medical adviser to LA28 in establishing medical services in the Olympic and Paralympic village and at sporting venues for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Cedars-Sinai is also a member of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Medical Network, supporting medical treatment of athletes as they prepare to compete in national and international competitions leading up to the 2028 Games.

These partnerships underscore Cedars-Sinai’s commitment to the health and wellbeing of Angelenos and the athletes and visitors globally who will benefit from world-class care at one of the premier academic medical centers in the U.S.

“We’ve been training for this,” said Peter L. Slavin, president and CEO of Cedars-Sinai. "Team USA’s pursuit of greatness drives them to never stop pushing what’s possible. Cedars-Sinai’s team shares this pursuit of greatness and is continuously expanding the boundaries of what’s possible for our patients and community.”

As one of the leading medical providers in the country with more than 200 locations in Southern California, Cedars-Sinai is at the forefront of innovation in clinical care and medical research, combining expertise in orthopedics, cardiology and numerous other specialties with the most advanced facilities and technology to keep athletes healthy as they compete.

“Cedars-Sinai has been a cornerstone of the Los Angeles community for more than 120 years. LA28 is already creating a legacy driving community benefit, and we don’t need to wait until 2028 to make an impact,” said Chris Pepe, chief commercial officer at United States Olympic and Paralympic Properties and LA28. “This partnership will enhance our collective efforts to drive progress, reimagining the way the Olympic and Paralympic Games serve the world. We have a unique opportunity together to have everyone be a part of the LA28 story.”

Cedars-Sinai is one of nine medical institutions in the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Medical Network and has already begun offering care for Team USA athletes. Cedars-Sinai is the exclusive provider in Los Angeles and surrounding areas of Southern California.

“Cedars-Sinai brings remarkable healthcare skill and knowledge to Team USA athletes as they train and compete,” said Jonathan Finnoff, DO, chief medical officer of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC). “As a member of the USOPC’s Medical Network, Cedars-Sinai offers critical support to Team USA athletes, elevating the quality of care we offer to our athletes, and we look forward to continuing this partnership on the road to LA28.”  

Cedars-Sinai is excited to be gearing up for the 2028 Games.

“Athletes push the boundaries of human potential, breaking records and setting new standards,” said Slavin of Cedars-Sinai. “Similarly, our Cedars-Sinai team leads in medical innovation, constantly advancing the field. Just like Olympic athletes, our Cedars-Sinai staff are dedicating themselves to serve our community and our country as the Games come to Los Angeles.”

About Cedars-Sinai

Cedars-Sinai is a leader in providing high-quality healthcare encompassing primary care, specialized medicine and research. Since 1902, Cedars-Sinai has evolved to meet the needs of one of the most diverse regions in the nation, setting standards in quality and innovative patient care, research, teaching and community service. Today, Cedars-Sinai is known for its national leadership in transforming healthcare for the benefit of patients and in developing new approaches to treatment and educating tomorrow’s health professionals. Cedars-Sinai serves as the official health partner for the Los Angeles Rams and the Angel City Football Club and treats professional and elite athletes throughout the world to ensure they perform at the highest levels. Additionally, Cedars-Sinai demonstrates a commitment to the community through programs that improve the health of its most vulnerable residents.

About LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games

The LA28 Games will mark Los Angeles’ third time hosting the Olympic Games, previously hosted in 1984 and 1932, and first time to host the Paralympic Games. Los Angeles will host the world’s most elite athletes in 2028 as it welcomes Paralympians and Olympians from around the world to compete on the biggest stage in sports. The LA28 Games are independently operated by a privately funded, nonprofit organization, with revenue from corporate partners, licensing agreements, hospitality and ticketing programs and a significant contribution from the International Olympic Committee. For more information, visit LA28.org.

Legends, a global premium company, helped source the partnership between Cedars-Sinai and LA28.

About Team USA

Team USA is the world’s largest and most diverse team of athletes from across the United States who compete at the Olympic, Paralympic, Youth Olympic, Pan American and Parapan American Games. The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, founded in 1894, serves as the National Olympic Committee and National Paralympic Committee for the United States and is responsible for protecting, supporting and empowering Team USA athletes. For more information, visit TeamUSA.com.

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Behind the Findings | Why Do Women Gain More Benefit From Exercise Than Men?

Vaccination clinics begin Sept. 9 and are scheduled through November across Los Angeles County.

“Cedars-Sinai is committed to keeping our community as healthy as possible during this upcoming flu season,” said Jonathan Vickburg, LMFT, associate director of Community Health Improvement at Cedars-Sinai. “Influenza is a serious disease, especially for young children and older adults. If you haven’t gotten your vaccination yet, please come see us at one of our clinics.”

Influenza can cause severe illness that can lead to hospitalization and even death. Symptoms include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, runny nose and muscle aches. Flu activity often accelerates in October, making it critical to get vaccinated now. Infectious disease experts  from Cedars-Sinai strongly urge adults, children and infants to get the flu vaccine.

“You think it will never happen to your family, but every year, thousands of people in the U.S. die from flu complications,” said Jonathan Grein, MD, Cedars-Sinai’s director of Hospital Epidemiology and associate professor in the Department of Medicine. “It takes only a couple of seconds to get a shot and protect yourself and everyone in your family who is eligible for the shot, including babies 6 months and older and pregnant women.”

The flu vaccines formulated for the 2024-25 flu season protect against three different flu viruses that are circulating this year. Infectious disease experts recommend that everyone 6 months old and up get vaccinated. All ages are welcome at the community flu shot clinics, and children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Scheduled Clinics:

Monday, Sept. 9
10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Roxbury Park 
471 S. Roxbury Dr. 
Beverly Hills, CA 90212

Sunday, Sept. 15
11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Saint Basil's Church
3611 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90005

Thursday, Sept.19
7:30–10 a.m.
Hope on Union – United University Church
2208 S. Union Ave. 
Los Angeles, CA 90007

Sunday, Sept. 29
8–11 a.m.
St. Kevin Catholic Church
4072 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90004

Tuesday, Oct. 1
10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Plummer Park Community Center
7377 Santa Monica Blvd. 
West Hollywood, CA 90046

Friday, Oct. 4
9 a.m.–noon
Immanuel Presbyterian Church
3300 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90010

Sunday, Oct. 6
9 a.m.–noon
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center – Steven Spielberg Parking Lot
8723 Alden Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90048

Saturday, Oct.19
7 a.m.–noon
Children's Institute Inc. – Otis Booth Campus
2121 W. Temple St.
Los Angeles, CA 90026

Wednesday, Oct. 23
10 a.m.–noon
Watts Labor Community Action Committee (WLCAC)
2528 West Blvd. 
Los Angeles, CA 90016

Saturday, Nov. 2
7 a.m.–noon
Michelle and Barack Obama Recreation Center
5001 Obama Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90016

Sunday, Nov. 10
9–11 a.m.
Young Israel of Century City
9317 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90035

Tuesday, Nov. 12
Noon–2 p.m.
Fairfax Senior Citizens Center 
7929 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90046

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Flu and RSV: How to Protect Yourself Now

The innovative 10-week program merges the beloved game of bingo with exercises designed specifically for older adults, offering a unique blend of fun and fitness, and enhancing social connections, a key pillar of a healthy lifestyle.

 “When I was younger, I used to exercise a lot, but after I fell, I wasn’t able to exercise anymore,” said participant Helen Shin, 84. “I love this program because it lets me exercise again.”

Each session includes rounds of bingo with simple, yet effective exercises that focus on range of motion, balance, muscle strengthening and endurance. Leaders instruct exercisers in English, Korean and Spanish on how to do the movements, which are designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of physical limitations.

“By combining the fun of bingo with exercises that promote health and wellbeing, we aim to engage older adults in a unique and enjoyable way that supports their physical and mental health,” said Jonathan Vickburg, LMFT, associate director of Community Health Improvement at Cedars-Sinai.

The program’s success at Steel Plaza Senior Housing is evident. The room is filled with laughter and chatter as participants mark their bingo cards, cheer for each other, and take part in exercises.  

“Participants not only engage in physical activities, but the program is also designed to lessen social isolation, anxiety and depression,” said Melissa Mandujano, a Cedars-Sinai community health associate.  

Cedars-Sinai is hoping to expand the program to other senior centers.

Vickburg says the goal is to offer older adults across the city the opportunity to participate in an activity that enhances their physical health while also providing a social outlet.

“When you become a senior, you tend to not move as much or want to go anywhere,” said Grace Kim, a participant. “For me, there’s not a lot of opportunity to go outside to socialize and exercise, so it’s convenient because the program is just downstairs for me. It’s a great way to spend the day in an air-conditioned space.”

Bingocize classes meet every Monday and Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. at Steel Plaza Senior Housing. For those interested in joining, email Forever Fit at groupforeverfit@cshs.org.

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Meeting Older Adults Where They Are

has galvanized its commitment to helping historically marginalized communities, allocating $27 million in grants to support programs providing housing stability, food security, accessible care and health equity across the Los Angeles region.

The medical center’s community benefit priorities for the fiscal year that ended June 30 reflect its deep commitment to the health and wellbeing of all Angelenos. 

A $1.35 million grant to the Center for Care Innovations will bring together a cohort of street medicine teams, community clinics and housing providers to design and pilot interventions that meet the immediate medical needs of people experiencing homelessness, while connecting them with ongoing health and housing resources.

The medical center also awarded $750,000 to The People Concern and Homeless Outreach Program Integrated Care System (HOPICS). They will pilot an innovative housing acquisition strategy—a cost-effective approach to making units quickly available for people experiencing homelessness so they can move from shelters to long-term housing.  

These community investments come at a critical time for the Los Angeles region, where, after five years of increases, the most recent homeless count showed a slight decrease across the county. 

“The crisis of homelessness has been decades in the making, but we are heartened by collective efforts to turn the tide in Los Angeles,” said Erin Jackson-Ward, DrPH, executive director of Grantmaking and Social Impact for Cedars-Sinai. “Joining forces with nonprofits in this region bolsters our mission to be change-makers through healthcare and community outreach.”

Cedars-Sinai also granted $450,000 to True Colors United to launch a project developed by a group of youth leaders who have experienced homelessness in Los Angeles. This initiative focuses on LGBTQIA+ young people and youth of color. The project will identify opportunities to prevent and respond to youth homelessness, while training a network of young people to advocate for local housing solutions in their neighborhoods.

Eradicating food insecurity also remains a focus of Cedars-Sinai’s giving. A $100,000 grant to the nonprofit Food Forward will strengthen a network of more than 250 organizations at 300 fresh produce distribution sites across the county. The partnership will help ensure Angelenos have a healthy and adequate food supply.

This year, the medical center’s Black Birth Equity grantmaking initiative included a $750,000 grant to the LA Partnership for Early Childhood Investment. The funding will establish a Doula Hub infrastructure to train and reimburse doulas hired to support women during childbirth—an effort that will bolster public-private momentum around connecting people with birth workers.

Additionally, Cedars-Sinai is helping to implement trauma screening and care practices through $100,000 in funding to the nonprofit ONEgeneration’s Grandparents As Parents (GAP) program. GAP addresses the barriers and challenges faced by grandparents working to gain guardianship of their grandchildren to avoid foster home placement.

“Cedars-Sinai is fortunate to have the financial resources to provide assistance and forge stronger relationships with hundreds of local nonprofits,” said Thomas M. Priselac, president and CEO of Cedars-Sinai. “Our goal has always been to bring greater visibility to outstanding causes and their impactful work.”

Read more on the Newsroom: Cedars-Sinai Health System Generates Broad Economic Impact

Through a series of innovative programs, Cedars-Sinai’s initiative—nicknamed NextGen—inspires, educates, and empowers students, creating a pipeline for a more inclusive healthcare workforce.

“NextGen Pathways is a pipeline program that creates opportunities at many different entry points,” said Nicole Mitchell, chief diversity and inclusion officer at Cedars-Sinai. “It's thinking about how we take these young people and get them exposed to careers in healthcare and really plant the seed.”

The program’s holistic approach addresses multifaceted needs and barriers, ensuring students are supported financially and academically as well as through community involvement and mentorship. The programs are designed to help students thrive and navigate various career opportunities within healthcare.

Some of these students are the first generation in their families to be born in the U.S. or to be headed to college, Mitchell said. “And figuring out how to get into college or just knowing what to do next can be overwhelming.”

NextGen is made up of five core programs: Youth Employment and Development (YED), Educational Mentorship for Empowering Resilient Growth and Excellence in Healthcare (EMERGE), Dynamic Internship for Students Cultivating Opportunities and Vision in Healthcare Education and Research (DISCOVER), Empowering Learning and Vocational Advancement Through Excellence (ELEVATE), and Black Men in White Coats.

Opening Doors to Healthcare Careers

Founded in 1993, the YED program is a collaboration with Fairfax High School in Los Angeles that engages 11th- and 12th-grade students through a combination of school-based education, hands-on workplace learning, and mentoring.

Each year, participating students gain access to paid, part-time jobs throughout various departments at Cedars-Sinai, are guided by professional mentors, and earn credits toward their high school diploma.

“Through this program I’ve been able to grow my social skills because this job requires a lot of networking,” said Emily Choi, 2024 YED graduate. “I’ve grown as a person and professionally and have learned how to be in a work environment.”

Since its inception, more than 1,000 students have participated in the program, with many now employed full time at Cedars-Sinai.

“Most of these students come to us not knowing what they want to do after high school, much less knowing the endless possibilities within healthcare, outside of clinical positions,” said Daniela Villegas, NextGen Pathways program manager. “By the time they graduate from YED, most usually go on to continue their education within healthcare and several come back to work here.”

Villegas herself was a YED graduate in 2005 and credits the program with helping her find a successful career pathway.

Continuing the Journey

After graduating from YED earlier this month, five graduates are joining the inaugural EMERGE class in the fall.

The EMERGE pilot initiative supports students as they transition from high school to college, offering employment opportunities at Cedars-Sinai while they pursue their degrees. To participate, students must maintain a 3.0 GPA and provide proof of college enrollment.

The mentorship and support system ensures that aspiring healthcare professionals stay on track to achieve their dreams.

“Creating a support system where alumni and mentors provide guidance is critical, and having that community to ask questions about balancing work, life and academics is invaluable,” Mitchell said.

Inspiring Future Leaders

NextGen's impact extends beyond high school. The DISCOVER program, in collaboration with UNITE-LA and the Los Angeles mayor's office, offers undergraduate students a 10-week paid summer internship.

“NextGen Pathways is about creating the next generation of healthcare heroes. DISCOVER gives college students a real taste of the healthcare industry, helping them see the diverse and amazing roles they could pursue,” Mitchell said.

The journey doesn't stop there. DISCOVER participants can continue through the ELEVATE program, which provides yearlong paid internships focused on allied health careers. This initiative offers valuable hands-on experience and paves the way for full-time employment at Cedars-Sinai, ensuring a smooth transition into professional roles.

A Brighter Future

In partnership with the group Black Men in White Coats, Cedars-Sinai hosts an annual youth summit, a day filled with mentorship, hands-on activities and networking opportunities—with the goal of introducing Black middle school and high school students to careers in medicine.

Founded in 2013, the Black Men in White Coats Youth Summit aims to reverse the declining number of Black men applying to medical school.

By fostering diversity, equity and inclusion, all the NextGen programs contribute to building the healthcare workforce and improving the educational, social and economic outcomes for historically underrepresented youth and their communities.

“We're a large employer in the Los Angeles area, and I think NextGen Healthcare Pathways is a way that we can continue to make sure that we have really knowledgeable healthcare workers for the future,” Mitchell said.

Read more in Discoveries Magazine: Residency Programs Move Toward Greater Diversity

And when that emergency arises, anyone can be ready to save a life, said Gregory Jones, RN, injury prevention and outreach coordinator for the Cedars-Sinai Trauma Program.

“There are certain lifesaving steps everyone can take before help arrives,” Jones said, adding that it’s his mission to share those steps far and wide so people at the scene know what to do until health professionals can take over.

“A person can bleed to death in three to five minutes,” Jones said, “but it can take upwards of eight minutes for emergency help to arrive.”

Uncontrolled bleeding is the No. 1 cause of death after a mass shooting, stabbing, and other mass casualties. 

The techniques Jones teaches are part of Stop the Bleed, a program developed by the American College of Surgeons following the 2012 school shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, in which 26 people, most of them children, died.

Stop the Bleed methods are effective in all traumas that involve bleeding, whether it’s from natural disasters or car accidents, said Jones, who has taught Stop the Bleed to groups throughout Greater Los Angeles for the past seven years.   

If an emergency arises, the first step is to call 911, Jones said. After that, there are three basic techniques to stop bleeding until help arrives.

Technique No. 1

Find the wound that’s bleeding and cover it with gauze, or even a shirt or towel, if that’s all that’s handy. Then put one hand on top of the other and press on the wound and hold it there until help arrives.

Technique No. 2 

If blood is pouring out of the wound, you have to pack the wound. If you have gloves, put them on, then use gauze, a towel or a T-shirt to pack the wound. Stuff the material into the wound as far as it can go. After you’ve packed the wound as much as possible, press on it with a covering and both of your palms until help arrives.

Technique No. 3

If you have a tourniquet, place it about three inches above the wound. Tighten the tourniquet by turning the crank in either direction until the bleeding stops. This will be painful but it’s important to keep turning until the bleeding stops. When you’re done, make note of the time when you placed the tourniquet.

Those interested in learning more can find a class led by Cedars-Sinai trauma educators or take an interactive online course through Stop the Bleed.

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Donating Blood During a Disaster--How It Helps

Addressing the complexity of causes behind poor health outcomes for Black mothers requires commitment, investment and innovation to produce meaningful, measurable change.

“Ensuring equitable outcomes for our patients is a priority at the highest level of Cedars-Sinai. Black Maternal Health Week raises awareness about birthing inequities that exist, and the multidisciplinary work required to close the gap,” said Christina Harris, MD, Cedars-Sinai vice president and chief health equity officer.

“But the work of preventing harm and saving Black lives is a continuous process that is not confined to one week. It is 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every week and every year. That is the level of commitment that is required,” Harris said.

Cedars-Sinai initiatives to improve Black maternal health include lowering the rates of a common cause of death during childbirth, funding community partners, providing mandatory anti-discrimination education and bridging the gap in maternal mental health care.

Community Conversations

Throughout the year, Cedars-Sinai partners with BlackDoctor.org for a series of Community Conversations that address a wide range of health and public health concerns. This month’s conversation will focus on Black maternal mental health.

According to the American Counseling Association, Black women face an increased risk of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. On April 10, “Shining a Light on Black Maternal Mental Health” will feature a panel of healthcare experts discussing the importance of early diagnosis and access to support and effective treatment. The conversation will include an inspirational Black mom who shares her journey of recovery from serious postpartum depression. 

AI Plus Aspirin Eliminates Racial Disparities in Preeclampsia Treatment

"Whenever we focus on eliminating racial or ethnic disparities in care, we ultimately end up increasing the quality of care for everybody,” said maternal-fetal medicine specialist Melissa Wong, MD.

Aspirin can reduce the risk of developing preeclampsia, a dangerous hypertensive complication of pregnancy that can lead to serious complications and even death. But Black pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to being overlooked for aspirin treatment.  

A study led by Wong found that using artificial intelligence to automate decision-making about prescribing low-aspirin—and to identify patients at risk for preeclampsia—resulted in an increase in appropriate aspirin treatment and eliminated the racial disparity in care.

Perinatal Antidiscrimination Initiative

“Not being heard, or having assumptions made about you or your condition, can be a critical barrier to getting good medical care. I've found there are differences in how people perceive respect, or disrespect, based on race and ethnicity," explains Kimberly Gregory, MD, MPH, director of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and vice chair of Women's Healthcare Quality and Performance Improvement in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

“Always Listening and Learning with You”—ALLY—is a phrase developed by the Cedars-Sinai perinatal unit to characterize an effective approach to patient advocacy and health equity.

The principal of “allyship” is the foundation of annual department compliance training on unconscious bias. The course demonstrates the value of inclusive terminology, offers opportunities to explore how to advocate for  patients and colleagues and emphasizes the critical role staff members play in improving the experiences of patients.

Black Maternal Mental Health

“Black women are twice as likely to experience perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression, than their white counterparts. They are also less likely to receive treatment,” said clinical psychologist Eynav Accortt, PhD, director of the Reproductive Psychology Program.

Cedars-Sinai investigators are recruiting participants for an NIH funded study aimed at addressing those disparities. The Resources, Inspiration, Support, Empowerment (R.I.S.E.) for Black Maternal Mental Health study tests a mobile health web application designed to help manage stress in pregnancy.

Black women living anywhere in the U.S. who are 12-32 weeks pregnant and at least 18 years old can participate in the study. Click here for more information.

Community Partners

Cedars-Sinai also partners with trusted community organizations committed to improving Black maternal and infant health.

Since 2022, Cedars-Sinai has committed over $3.5 million to 14 organizations which focus on reaching perinatal and postnatal Black women in Los Angeles County, across the continuum of care. Grantees include highly respected partners such as the California Black Women’s Health Project, which provides health education and other resources meant to build empowering relationships within the community of Black pregnant and parenting women they serve.

“Striving for health equity among all populations has long been a goal of Cedars-Sinai. These organizations are key partners in that mission. The grants—and opportunities to combine resources for the good of public health—are an important way we can contribute to improving Black maternal health and well-being,” Harris said.

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Equitable, Personalized Care for Women and Children of Color                           

“I think as we’re looking at the lack of representation in healthcare, having events where we can start to expose students to what is happening in the field of medicine—have them feel it, touch it, see people who look like them and maybe aspire to—that really makes a difference,” said Nicole Mitchell, Cedars-Sinai’s chief diversity and inclusion officer. “For me, it’s all about exposing the next generation of healthcare heroes to what’s out there.”

Throughout the day, students visited interactive stations to learn about various aspects of clinical care, including respiratory therapy, laparoscopic surgery, sports medicine, artificial intelligence technology, imaging, and emergency care.

“I’m not really sure what I want to do yet, but I know I want to do something with medicine,” said 13-year-old Isaiah Wise.

Isaiah’s dad, Michael Wise, said, “I think it's very important for the youth in our community to see people who look like them in these positions, so they can bring that back to the community and grow in the community. Events like this are great because it really takes a village.”

Attendees heard from keynote speaker Dale Okorodudu, MD, who founded Black Men in White Coats in 2013 to encourage students from diverse backgrounds to pursue careers in medicine.

The youth summits are held in major U.S. cities in partnership with medical schools and health institutions. At the Los Angeles event, representatives from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science and BlackDoctor.org were on-site to share career insights to hopeful medical students. 

Among those enjoying what the summit had to offer was 16-year-old Kalyssa Ferdinand, who hopes to be a doctor one day, and her mother, Koralyn Ferdinand.

“We’re here to give her experience about her future—her future of going to medical school and one day getting that white coat,” Koralyn Ferdinand said.

If you’re interested in attending the next Black Men in White Coats Youth Summit on April 5, 2025, please click here to register.

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: The Next Generation of Black Healthcare Leaders

Continuing a heartwarming tradition, Santa—who bears a striking resemblance to David Marshall, JD, DNP, RN, senior vice president and chief nursing executive at Cedars-Sinai—made a spirited visit to pediatric patients in Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children’s.

Santa sported a snowy beard and was adorned in his signature red suit, glossy black boots and hat topped with a festive pom-pom. Accompanied by nurses and healthcare professionals, he spread holiday cheer by gifting young patients a cuddly stuffed animal from the Owie BowWowie Foundation. Parents of newborns received keepsake ornaments imprinted with their baby’s footprints.

First-time mother Ashley Kaslove told Santa about her newborn daughter, Harley, currently a patient in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. “Even though she's not at home, thank you for finding my daughter, your presence means the world to us,” Kaslove said.

Santa’s eyes misted up when he told Kaslove that visiting the medical center was one of the highlights of his year. “To be able to provide that feeling to a family is something special,” he said.

Receiving a visit during a baby's first Christmas in the hospital added a special touch for many families—and made Santa’s day.

“It brings a piece of familiar tradition into what can be a challenging time for families with a loved one in the hospital,” Santa said. “The moment I witness the joy and smiles on their faces is priceless and brings me instant joy.”

Read more in Discoveries: Six Questions With Ophir Klein, MD, PhD

“Young people with great potential and ambition can see a clear path forward to possible careers, where options may have once been limited, because of the generosity of The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation,” said Arthur J. Ochoa, JD, senior vice president of Advancement and chief advancement officer for Cedars-Sinai. “Cedars-Sinai is honored and so thankful to continue this transformative partnership.”

 The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation is a longtime supporter of Cedars-Sinai, committing $30 million to establish the Chuck Lorre Allied Health School at Cedars-Sinai in 2024. Support from the foundation, led by President and Chief Giving Officer Trisha Cardoso, has powered YED since 2014. The two-year YED program allows students from Fairfax High School to earn 10 high school credits as well as a paycheck, with many graduates going on to become Cedars-Sinai employees.

“It has been inspiring to meet so many of the current and past YED students and learn about their personal journeys,” said Lorre, who established his foundation in 2013 to expand his philanthropic projects. “The YED program is key to igniting students’ passions for the medical field and for providing a clear avenue to these careers. It just made sense to ensure that a program of this caliber would be able to provide these same opportunities for generations of students to come.”

There are currently 50 students in the YED program and 1,400 YED alumni. Lorre and his foundation team recently met with Timothy Islam and Gloria Arrenquin, two of the program’s success stories. Islam joined the YED program in 2014, shadowing specialists in the Spine Center and the Department of Neurosurgery. The program was instrumental in his decision to pursue a career in medicine. After graduating from UCLA in 2020, with a bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience and a minor in Biomedical Research, Islam was hired by Cedars-Sinai as a research associate.

He says the program changed the trajectory of his life. “Working in the YED program helped me pay for school supplies, exams and applications in high school, and helped offset some of the cost of living and tuition at UCLA,” Islam shared. “Most importantly, though, it provided me opportunities to explore different career paths at a young age.”

Arrenquin trained under the Teen Line program as a YED student. She was hired by Cedars-Sinai in 2008 and worked her way up to research operations manager for Biomedical Sciences. “Before YED, working in healthcare didn’t feel possible, but thanks to the program, I found my calling and am thankful every day for having that opportunity as a teenager,” shared Arrenquin. “I hope Mr. Lorre knows the incredible impact his generosity and vision have had on my life and livelihood.”

That impact is growing. Each student who passes through the YED program, with support from The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation, amplifies the program’s mission to improve college access and success for Los Angeles youth, and ensure career readiness for the next great medical minds to enter the healthcare field.   

Read more from the Cedars-Sinai Blog: YED Program Adapts and Continues to Help Students

As the day unfolded on Crenshaw Boulevard in Los Angeles, organizers said the event, on Oct. 21 this year, attracted a record-breaking 500,000-plus attendees, making it the largest one-day ‘free’ street festival on the West Coast.

Founded in 2006 by civil rights activist and executive publisher of the Los Angeles Sentinel, Danny Bakewell Sr., the Taste of Soul festival is a celebration of Black culture in Los Angeles.

“Taste of Soul is more than just an event; it stands as a testament to the community's strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of all,” said Christina Harris, MD, Cedars-Sinai’s vice president and chief health equity officer.

The festival brings together food, entertainment and community resources, while spotlighting local businesses, home-grown entertainers and the community’s economic growth.  

Cedars-Sinai's Community Connect Program and its Community Health Improvement Program were on-site to provide Angelenos with a variety of health services that included flu vaccines and community health navigation tools to help local residents get access to free and reduced-price community resources for medical care, transportation, caregiving, mental health services and more.

“I was able to get my flu shot today and I’m so happy because it saved me a trip,” said festival-goer Desiree Lopez. “I delivered all four of my children at Cedars-Sinai and underwent cancer treatments there. I quite literally trust them with my life.”

In addition to healthcare resources, the event featured food and consumer goods vendors, voter registration and job opportunities in addition to live performances dedicated to gospel, R&B, jazz and dance.   

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: At Cedars-Sinai, a Dedicated Focus on Black Birth Equity

Cedars-Sinai also is giving $1 million to the nonprofit community health center to help fund the mobile healthcare program. Healthcare professionals staffing the mobile unit focus on providing care in the area surrounding Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital in addition to neighborhoods in South and West Los Angeles.

"This is one of the ways we at Cedars-Sinai are helping address the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles," said Jonathan Schreiber, Cedars-Sinai’s vice president of Community Engagement. “Everyone deserves quality healthcare. That's one of the reasons why we work with partners like Venice Family Clinic in the community. They are able to uniquely serve people experiencing homelessness. It means that we're able to help connect people, not only to permanent and primary healthcare, not only to behavioral healthcare and to dental care, but also to the coordinated entry system, which is the on-ramp to homeless services here in Los Angeles.”

“Cedar-Sinai’s generous support for Venice Family Clinic’s Street Medicine program will expand our ability to provide high-quality healthcare to people experiencing homelessness,” said Mitesh Popat, MD, Venice Family Clinic CEO. “Venice Family Clinic was the first community health center in L.A. County to send healthcare providers into the streets to provide care to our unsheltered neighbors, and it continues to lead the pack by training medical residents, students and other healthcare providers through our Street Medicine curriculum and providing hands-on experience in the field, for which this new mobile unit provides additional opportunities.”

Venice Family Clinic Physician Assistant Carrie Kowalski knows how to help people who find themselves without housing.

“It’s gaining their trust and getting them to really know that you’re on their side that’s crucial,” said Kowalski. “The patients need to know you believe in them as a human and that you believe in their health and their wellness. That’s the key to getting them to accept care and come back.”

At the mobile clinic, Kowalski and other healthcare workers treat patients for a wide range of problems—everything from foot infections and flu shots to high blood pressure and mental health issues.

With the new mobile unit from Cedars-Sinai, Venice Family Clinic now has three mobile units, enabling clinic staff to care for more patients around Los Angeles. While Venice Family Clinic has as many as nine “street medicine” teams who work with people experiencing homelessness, the mobile units enable healthcare professionals to treat patients–especially those in need of in-depth care–in a private, safe setting.

“When I see the newly wrapped van with both Venice Family Clinic’s logo and Cedars-Sinai’s together, it epitomizes the partnership that we have in supporting the community,” said Erin Jackson-Ward, director of Community Giving at Cedars-Sinai. “Improving access to care for the most disadvantaged is a cornerstone of Cedars-Sinai’s community benefit effort and it’s what Venice Family Clinic lives and breathes every day.”

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Supporting Homeless Patients in the Emergency Room

“We urge everyone in our community to get vaccinated because it’s so important for everyone’s health,” said Jonathan Vickburg, LMFT, associate director of Community Health Improvement at Cedars-Sinai. “Holding free flu vaccine clinics is the best way to demonstrate our commitment to our community’s health and wellbeing.”

The Oct. 8 clinics are part of a series of more than 40 free, Cedars-Sinai Health System flu vaccination clinics throughout the community. A list of upcoming clinics is below.

Influenza can cause severe illness that can lead to hospitalization and even death. During the 2022-2023 flu season in the U.S., the flu was linked with as many as 650,000 hospitalizations and as many as 58,000 deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Flu activity often accelerates in October, making it critical to get vaccinated now if individuals haven’t already received their shots. Infectious disease experts from Cedars-Sinai and its affiliates strongly urge adults and children 6 months and older to get the flu vaccine.

“The flu shot is the best tool we have to protect ourselves from the flu,” said Kimberly Shriner, MD, medical director of Infection Prevention and Control at Huntington Health. “Make sure everyone in your home is vaccinated against the flu and also up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations as we approach the holiday season when people will be gathering.”

People especially vulnerable to the flu include adults 65 and older, patients with certain chronic medical conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart disease), those who are pregnant and children younger than 5.

“We hope that the public will take advantage of these free flu clinics to protect themselves and others in their community who are vulnerable to the flu,” said Torrance Memorial infectious disease specialist David D. Rand, MD.

The complete list of flu vaccination clinics includes:

• Cedars-Sinai Medical Center–Spielberg Building
  Oct. 8, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
  8723 Alden Drive, Los Angeles 90048
   
• Huntington Health–Light of Love Mission Church
  Oct. 8, 9:30–11:30 a.m.
  2801 E. Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena 91107
   
• Torrance Memorial–Richard B. Hoffman Health Conference Center
  Oct. 8, 9:30–11:30 a.m.
  3315 Medical Center Drive, Torrance 90505
   
• Huntington Health–Friends In Deed
  Oct. 10, 9–11 a.m.
  444 E. Washington Boulevard, Pasadena 91104
   
• Huntington Health–Jefferson Public Library
  Oct. 10, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
  1500 E. Villa Street, Pasadena 91106
   
• Huntington Hospital–Cafeteria
  Oct. 11, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
  100 W. California Boulevard, Pasadena 91105
   
• Huntington Health–South Pasadena Farmer’s Market
  Oct. 12, 4–6 p.m.
  905 Meridian Avenue, South Pasadena 91030
   
• Huntington Health–Living Rock Church
  Oct. 14, 9–11 a.m.
  2181 E. Washington Boulevard, Pasadena 91104
   
• Cedars-Sinai–St. Kevin Catholic Church
  Oct. 15, 8–11 a.m.
  4072 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles 90004
   
• Huntington Health–St. Elizabeth Parish School
  Oct. 15, 9–11 a.m.
  1840 N. Lake Avenue, Altadena 91001
   
• Huntington Health–St. Joseph Center (Holy Family Giving Bank)
  Oct. 16, 8–10 a.m.
  1524 Fremont Avenue, Pasadena 91030
   
• Huntington Health–Villa Parke Farmer’s Market
  Oct. 17, 9–11 a.m.
  363 E. Villa Street, Pasadena 91101
   
• Cedars-Sinai–Plummer Park
  Oct. 17, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
  7377 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood 90046
   
• Huntington Health–Hastings Branch Public Library
  Oct. 18, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
  3325 E. Orange Grove Boulevard, Pasadena 91107
   
• Cedars-Sinai–Taste of Soul Event
  Oct. 21, 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
  Crenshaw Boulevard (between Stocker and Obama)
   
• Huntington Health–Community Church (Dream Church)
  Oct. 22, 9–11 a.m.
  1305 E. Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena 91106
   
• Huntington Hospital–Emergency Department
  Oct. 24, 4–6 p.m.
  100 W. California Boulevard, Pasadena 91105 (Fairmount Courtyard Entrance)
   
• Huntington Health–Sacred Heart Church
  Oct. 29, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
  2835 N. Lincoln Avenue, Altadena 91001
   
• Cedars-Sinai–Young Israel of Century City
  Nov. 5, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
  9317 W. Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles 90035

Visit Cedars-Sinai’s events page and Huntington Health’s flu page to find a nearby location.

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Cold vs. Flu Symptoms

Team HEAL provides high school athletes with the resources they need—including injury treatment, prevention and education—to safely participate in school sports. By providing comprehensive support, Team HEAL leaders hope to break down barriers and build bright futures for students.

“We are thrilled to welcome seven additional schools into the Team HEAL family,” said founder and Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute surgeon Clarence Shields Jr., MD. “By expanding our reach from five schools to a dozen, we are ensuring that more young athletes have access to top-notch care, training, mentorship, and resources that can truly be life-changing.”

The expansion schools—each with a median of 90% of the student body qualifying for free or reduced-price lunches—exemplify Team HEAL's commitment to fostering growth in communities facing socioeconomic challenges.

The new schools participating in Team HEAL include John Marshall High School, Bell High School, Esteban E. Torres High School, Fairfax High School, King/Drew Magnet High School of Medicine and Science, Jordan High School Magnet, and Nathaniel Narbonne High School. 

Team HEAL already is established at Carson High STEAM School, Crenshaw High School STEMM Magnet, Phineas Banning Senior High School, Susan Miller Dorsey Senior High School and Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnets.

The program equips the schools with resources such as Team HEAL scholarships, athletic training room equipment and supplies, injury clinics at designated urgent care locations, and educational opportunities for students, athletic trainers and school administrators.

Team HEAL's distinctive approach lies in its dual emphasis on athletic excellence and injury prevention, ensuring that young athletes safely can achieve their full potential. 

Participation in athletic programs offers more than just physical activity, it provides an avenue for personal growth, character development, and opportunities for higher education.

"Through this expansion, we aim to impact the lives of more than 2,800 student-athletes, giving them the tools they need to succeed on and off the field,” said Shields.

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Champions for Young Athletes

"Everyone knows that the first weeks of school can be stressful for students,” said Suzanne Silverstein, MA, founding director of Cedars-Sinai Share & Care, which provides counseling services to students who are experiencing emotional and academic challenges due to traumatic situations and stressors. “But it’s also a big source of stress for parents and families, so the start of the school year is a good time to strategize for success.”

Parents’ first step is to establish a routine, Silverstein said. For young children, that might mean making lunches and laying out the next day’s outfit before bedtime. For older children, parents could focus on establishing a consistent time for homework, dinner, bath and bedtime.

“Some children need to let off steam when they get home or have some quiet downtime; others need to do homework right away,” Silverstein said. “It’s important to know what will work best for your child and your family. Sticking to a schedule alleviates stress in the morning and sends children to school with a calm mindset.”

Screen Time and Social Media

Michelle Escovedo, MD, an adolescent medicine specialist at Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children’s, says back to school means back to rules about screen time and social media.

“It is typical for parents to relax those rules during the summer, but once school starts, parents and children need to have a conversation about limits on social media and screen time. Set agreed-upon rules,” Escovedo recently said in a virtual community conversation about the back-to-school season. “It could be as simple as no phones during dinner and homework.”

The start of the school year is a good time to renew a needed prescription and fill out school medication forms, Escovedo said, especially for children who take a summer break from ADHD medications. And she suggests parents and children go through their social media accounts together and stop following any that could be harmful, such as social media accounts that encourage eating disorders, cutting or sexual abuse.  

One of Escovedo’s most important strategies is for parents to be able to differentiate between regular teenage angst and a more serious situation like depression.

“If there is significant change in behavior or demeanor that persists for weeks, parents need to speak with a school counselor and pediatrician and possibly receive a referral for a therapist,” Escovedo said.

If a child is experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts, Escovedo said parents should call a new hotline, 988, that immediately links callers with a mental health team.

Vaccination Season

For Priya Soni, MD, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children’s, back-to-school season is vaccination season.

“It’s a great idea to check in with your pediatrician now to ensure that your child is best protected as they enter the school year,” said Soni. “Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen a dramatic decrease in routine vaccinations for children as we were quarantining and social distancing early in the pandemic. This resulted in millions of missed doses of vaccines for U.S. kids. If there have been any gaps in your child’s vaccines being up to date, now is the time to take action to ensure the school year goes as smoothly as possible and your child is protected against vaccine-preventable illnesses.”

Some vaccines require a second dose between 4 and 6 years old, including the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine as well as the vaccine against chickenpox. Preteens around 11 and 12 years old are due for meningococcal vaccines and the human papillomavirus vaccination, which protects against certain cancers. Older teens might need to get a second dose of their meningococcal vaccines.

In addition to the back-to-school vaccines, Soni reminds parents to get flu shots for their children before October, ahead of the winter flu surge.

In terms of COVID-19, any child who was vaccinated after April should be up to date. A new booster is expected, possibly as soon as late September.

“It may seem to parents that as soon as young children start school, they start catching colds and viruses, but there is no magic remedy to avoid that,” Soni said. “However, there are some commonsense actions, like hand-washing, eating a healthy diet and getting enough sleep, that can help.”  

Silverstein believes the best strategy for a successful academic year is for parents to be on top of their children’s mental and physical health. The more parental involvement, the better, Silverstein said.

“While all students may be anxious at the start of the school year,” said Silverstein, “it’s important to watch that the anxiety doesn’t spiral. For parents, communication with their children and with the teachers can help keep problems in check.”

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Promoting a Positive Body Image in Children  

What can you do to prevent ticks bites?

"There are several precautions to take before you hit the trails that can prevent bites, such as:

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. 
• Tuck the bottom of your pants into your boots or socks.  
• Apply tick repellent to clothing. Products with DEET will repel ticks and products with permethrin will kill ticks on contact.
• Avoid hiking in tall grass or heavily wooded areas because ticks tend to live and thrive in those areas.
• Try to hike in the center of the trail to reduce contact with ticks.

How do you check for ticks when you get home?

“The best place to inspect for ticks is in the shower. When you are inspecting your child check around the ears, near the hair line, under the arms, behind the legs and even inside the belly button because ticks like those crevices.”

How do you remove a tick?

“To remove a tick use a tweezer, and you want to apply the force of the tweezer at the base of the tick and  pull up. You don’t want to twist the tick off because you can leave parts of the tick inside embedded in the skin. If a tick is noticed within 24-hours of the hike or bite, and you are able to successfully remove it, the risk of transmission of any tickborne disease is very, very low.”  

What is the risk of Lyme disease?

“Thankfully, in Southern California, the risk of Lyme disease is much, much less than in other parts of the country, particularly in the Northeast. Most of the Lyme disease that we see here in Southern California actually comes from when a child or patient has traveled from the East Coast and they've been hiking there or have been in a summer camp, and they come back and they contracted Lyme disease from their exposure from these Lyme-endemic states in the Northeast.

“Ticks that carry the bacteria that cause Lyme disease can also carry other bacteria and cause infections known as Anaplasmosis and Ehrlichiosis. Symptoms of both can include fever, muscle aches, weakness and headache. Unlike Lyme disease, a rash is not as common. Symptoms usually occur one to two weeks after a bite from an infected tick. In both cases, they can be treated with proper antibiotics. Not every bite from an infected tick however, results in an infection.” 

What other bites do hikers need to watch out for?

"It's very important for parents to also understand that ticks are not the only thing that can bite you when you're out hiking in Southern California. We also often see infections that are caused by fleas. We call this "flea-borne typhus” and it is caused by a Rickettsial bacteria causing infection.  Animals that can carry these infected fleas include cats, wild possums, rats and mice. The infection is usually characterized by high grade fever, a rash as well as a bad headache. It's very important for parents to be aware that if their child goes hiking and has these symptoms, that could be from exposure to an infected flea.

Overall, the best advice is prevention, by wearing the right clothing and using repellents. But if you suspect someone in your family has a flea or tick infection, it’s important to let your doctor know you’ve been hiking to get the proper diagnosis."

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Should You Exercise on the Beach?