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Across Arizona, Florida, and the Midwest, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Office of Community Outreach and Engagement (COE) is at the forefront of empowering communities and advancing science. Here’s a look at the latest outreach updates from across our communities.
Empowering Through Events: Cancer Education on the Move
In Arizona, we recently collaborated with Fountain of Life House of Worship to host the Thrive Health & Wellness Event, drawing over 130 participants for a day focused on knowledge-sharing, connection, and personal development. Highlights included interactive discussions and expert-led sessions on male health. The event fostered new relationships and encouraged participants to take proactive steps in their daily routines.
In July, we participated in the Kappa Alpha Psi Annual Convention, engaging more than 1,500 attendees. We offered on-site screenings and provided prostate cancer resources, sparking meaningful conversations and supporting early cancer detection through individual outreach.
Promoting Safety and Prevention: Sun Protection Initiatives
In Minnesota, we addressed the challenges of sun exposure by hosting two Pool Cool Sun Safety Parties. These gatherings featured educational scavenger hunts, demonstrations on protective measures like applying SPF 30 sunscreen, and the installation of sunscreen dispensers at local pools. Posters with practical safety reminders were well-received, prompting families to adopt new habits. The initiative engaged over 100 attendees, illustrating the community’s enthusiasm for learning about sun protection.
Meanwhile, Florida piloted the “Here Comes the Sun” program virtually, partnering with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.’s Swim and Soar summer initiative in Volusia County. The program provided swim lessons to 12 youth and their families, with tailored education sessions led by Dr. Puneet Bhullar. Attendance included 14 adults and 6 youth, underscoring the value of creative partnerships and remote learning options.
Advancing Community Knowledge: Training and Engagement
In Florida, we recently launched our first fully virtual Cancer Advocacy Training, offering interactive features such as live polls, quizzes, and energizing dance breaks to keep engagement high. Seventeen community members completed the training over two days, gaining access to valuable tools and resources. In Brevard County, a hybrid training session expanded the reach, adding 25 more trained advocates for a total of 93 in Florida for 2025. These programs ensure volunteers are equipped to share information and connect others to local resources.
In the Midwest, we participated in the Red Lake Community Health Fair, bringing together more than 70 organizations to share resources and knowledge. The team distributed informational flyers, booklets, and surveys designed to collect feedback about how best to communicate with the community. Nearly 200 attendees completed surveys and received thoughtful tokens, strengthening ties and enhancing future outreach efforts.
Looking Ahead
Whether supporting wellness, advancing cancer prevention, or empowering advocates through education, COE’s latest achievements demonstrate how collaboration and tailored outreach can drive lasting change.
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