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Home / Newsroom / JCU AmeriCorps CRUSH Program Leads Community Health Initiatives
AmeriCorps JCU

John Carroll University empowers communities across Ohio to address health and social issues impacting its residents. ServeOhio and the Corporation for National Community Service awarded the university a multi-million dollar grant funding this comprehensive initiative over five years. The program examines social determinants of health to identify the greatest need, applying targeted strategies to influence positive outcomes. 

 

The Corps for Rural and Urban Success in Health, or CRUSH program, is the initiative's cornerstone, teaching middle- and high-school students in underserved communities to identify local health issues and strategically propose sustainable solutions to these issues. JCU AmeriCorps members bring the CRUSH program into the classroom, where many teachers work to embed the program into their curriculum. AmeriCorps Director Anita Iveljic ensures all training meets the program's planning and implementation standards. In addition to raising awareness of community health issues, CRUSH introduces underrepresented STEM students to potential career opportunities within the healthcare field. JCU senior Sean Butler ‘22 completed the program this year and says responding to social challenges was a formative experience.

 

CRUSH provided excellent opportunities for me to expand my perspective and grow both personally and professionally. I had a terrific cohort that was there to help me every step of the way as I navigated my responsibilities. Overall, the experience was crucial in defining who I am and the goals I strive to achieve.
Amer

CRUSH leadership is now partnering with the JCU Department of Counseling to address the mental health needs of those affected by opioid abuse. This coming year, they are launching the Strengthening Appalachian Families to combat Dependency or SAF-D program. The initiative targets southern Ohio and northern West Virginia communities dealing with substantial drug abuse. The CRUSH team works with local agencies providing specific training on encouraging substance-abuse treatment plans and reducing barriers to recovery. 

 

The Ohio Board of Nursing designates the JCU AmeriCorps program as approved training for those seeking certification as a Certified Health Worker (CHW). CHW’s serve a critical role in facilitating access to quality health services. They liaise between patients and accessible health and social services in the community. CRUSH provides a multi-layer support system for underserved areas, providing immediate help to those in need and a potential pipeline of employable Certified Health Workers.

 

AmeriCorps JCU

The reach of John Carroll University’s partnership with AmeriCorps is growing, fostering relationships with community partners. CRUSH members and students gain access to unique networking opportunities through service-learning initiatives. JCU alum and Executive Director of Lifeworks Autism Services Carl Brass ‘07 has high praise for the program’s framework and volunteers. 

 

Our partnership with John Carroll University/AmeriCorps has made a significant, positive impact on our organization. We cannot say enough about the quality and character of every individual that we have had the privilege to collaborate with. From top to bottom, the JCU chapter of AmeriCorps embodies servant leadership.

The JCU AmeriCorps CRUSH program’s success is rooted in the university’s core values. Through leadership, service, and experiential learning, CRUSH creates sustained impact for the greater good of communities in need. If you are interested in learning more about the program and its community partners, please email JCU AmeriCorps director Anita Iveljic.

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