Sarah Ortiz

Sarah Ortiz

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Hometown: Kissimmee, FL

Educational background: Bachelor of Science in Biology and Minor in Health Sciences from the University of Central Florida

Host Site: Community Health Department at Baptist Health

What is your role at your host site?

At Baptist Health, I am serving as a Community Outreach Liaison focusing on three different areas of outreach: the Edward Waters Student-Wellness Project, the American Cancer Society Grant for community education, and the Heart-Health Screenings with our faith-based partners and non-profit organizations.  My goal is to raise awareness about health issues prevalent in the Jacksonville area through health education and health screenings while connecting individuals with the appropriate resources.  By doing this, I am trying to help community members overcome the barriers to living a healthier life and in accessing health care.

Why did you join AmeriCorps/National Health Corps?

I had served in AmeriCorps before, under the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) Program, and knew about what a great service program it is.  It allows you to serve your community while gaining skills and responsibilities that might not otherwise be possible right out of college or with little to no experience, and I wanted to be a part of this again.  I also joined because even though I have had experience in the non-profit field and studied health sciences, I have never had the opportunity to combine the two interests.  North Florida Health Corps offered me the perfect position to do just that.

What are you hoping to gain from your year of service?

I am hoping to learn more about the health care field while serving the public.  Working within the community will hopefully give me more insight into the issues individuals face when trying to access health care and when trying to make healthy lifestyle choices.  As one of my favorite parts of service, I am also really looking forward to forming new relationships with the community members, Corps Members, and all the other staff and volunteers I meet along the way.

What are your plans after AmeriCorps service?

Hopefully, I will either continue my education or work experience in the health care field.  I am especially interested in Public Health and in Nursing because of the holistic and preventative approach it offers in helping community members improve their quality of life, as well as offering a variety of specialties and work environments.

Where do you envision yourself in 5 years?

Hopefully, I will be serving the community in some capacity, in addition to having spent as much time as possible traveling, hiking, and being with my family.